Mechanical NPI & Manufacturing Engineer

About DriveNets DriveNets is a leader in high-scale networking software for AI infrastructure and service providers. The company pioneered a disaggregated networking architecture that transforms the economics of large-scale networks while maximizing performance, utilization, and operational efficiency. DriveNets-powered networks are deployed by global leaders, including AT&T and Comcast, supporting more than 30% of total U.S. internet traffic. DriveNets AI Fabric delivers full-stack networking for AI infrastructures, providing the highest-performance, Ethernet-based alternative to InfiniBand. The solution is deployed by hyperscalers, NeoClouds, and enterprises worldwide. With over $1B raised, DriveNets continues to push the boundaries of modern networking infrastructure. About the Role We are seeking an experienced and multifaceted Mechanical NPI & Manufacturing Engineer to own mechanical systems engineering, manufacturing transfer, advanced packaging, and thermal/liquid cooling integration across our high-performance networking portfolio. In this role, you will lead end-to-end mechanical execution from late-stage R&D through volume manufacturing at global EMS/ODM facilities. Your scope spans chassis-level systems up to full-rack scale integration , custom packaging/palletization design, and advanced data center liquid cooling architectures. You will serve as the technical authority for mechanical quality, supplier qualification, transit reliability, and production line optimization. Key Responsibilities • NPI Transfer & Manufacturing Execution: • Lead seamless NPI-to-mass-production transfers, cataloging & verifying BOM completeness, 2D/3D drawing releases, and fabrication readiness for standalone switches and fully integrated rack systems. • Author, validate, and maintain detailed Mechanical Assembly & Process Instructions for global contract manufacturing lines. • Define together with R&D precision assembly parameters: torque specifications, fastening tooling, screw tightening sequences, and structural assembly guidelines. • Design, validate, and commission mechanical assembly jigs, alignment fixtures, and high efficiancy tooling to ensure repeatable line assembly. • Advanced Packaging, Palletization & Logistics Engineering: • Design and validate primary and secondary packaging solutions, including custom cushioning (EPE/EPP foam), corrugated structures, and chassis transit protection. • Define ESD shielding, Moisture Barrier Bags (MBB), and desiccant requirements for high-sensitivity optical and electronic assemblies. • Optimize palletization patterns, container cube utilization, stacking strength calculations, and pallet weight distribution for global freight. • Plan, execute, and certify transit/drop testing in accordance with international standards. • Manage day-to-day shipping deviations, packaging waivers, and disposition of in-transit damage. • Labeling & Regulatory Compliance Integration: • Design unit, carton, and pallet labels; select and qualify label substrates, adhesives, and print ribbons for environmental durability (abrasion, high temperature, humidity, UV resistance per UL standards). • Manage the physical integration and placement of global regulatory markings on chassis surfaces, rating plates, and packaging. • Thermal Management & Liquid Cooling Architecture: • Address mechanical-thermal integration challenges within high-power chassis and optical cages . • Oversee mechanical validation and assembly of Liquid Cooling systems for high-density compute/switching gear, including cold plates, manifolds, quick disconnects , hoses/piping routing, fluid loop integrity, and leak detection mechanisms. • Evaluate Thermal Interface Materials (TIMs), clamping force distribution, and flatness tolerances across high-power ASICs. • Supplier Quality, Sourcing & On-Site Audits: • Qualify mechanical fabrication vendors, sheet metal suppliers, precision machine shops, and server/telecom rack manufacturers. • Conduct on-site factory and supplier capability audits across Tier-1 EMS and ODM sites (evaluating stamping, CNC, die-casting, plating, painting, and assembly environments). • Review and sign off on First Article Inspections (FAI), packages, CMM dimensional reports, and material certifications . • Define Incoming Quality Control (IQC) inspection plans for mech items, Critical-to-Quality (CTQ) dimensions, and AQL sampling standards. • Production Support, Failure Analysis & Sustaining Engineering: • Provide active mechanical line support, quickly resolving production line stops, component mismatches, and Material Review Board (MRB) dispositions. • Lead mechanical Failure Analysis (FA), root-cause investigations , and implement robust mech Corrective/Preventive Actions. • Drive cost-reduction redesigns. • Qualify mechanical second sources to mitigate single-point supply chain risks. • Author and manage Engineering Change Orders (ECO/MCO), BOM updates, and CAD revisions for mech items within the company PLM system. • Mechanical Reliability & Environmental Qualification: • Plan and execute mechanical stress testing.

Requirements: • Education: B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering. • Experience: 6+ years of mechanical engineering experience in NPI, manufacturing, and sustaining environments within the networking, telecommunications, server, optics, or data center hardware industries. • System Integration Scope: Proven experience managing both box-level / chassis and Rack-level integration . • Data Center & Optical Familiarity: Hands-on experience with high-density Ethernet switches, fiber-optic routing, optical transceivers, and high-speed PCB mechanical constraints. • Thermal & Liquid Cooling Knowledge: Practical knowledge of mechanical liquid cooling architectures (cold plates, distribution manifolds, dripless quick disconnects, fluid routing, and leak mitigation). • Packaging & Logistics Expertise: Demonstrated track record in custom PE/box packaging design, pallet optimization, and transit qualification. • CAD & PLM Proficiency: Expert in 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks), and Proficiency with enterprise PLM systems ( Agile, Arena ). • Quality & Manufacturing Tools: Proficient in FAI sign-offs, CMM reports, AQL sampling, torque validation, and 8D failure analysis methodologies. • Communication & Mobility: Excellent English technical communication skills; willingness to travel periodically to overseas manufacturing and vendor sites (EMS/ODM/Mech Suppliers) for line audits, bring-ups, and ramp support.