Mechanical Design Engineer (m/f/d)

About the role

Sphaira is a Berlin-based deep-tech startup working at the intersection of autonomous mobility and advanced healthcare. The company is developing the infrastructure layer for intramobility, with a focus on enabling people and things to move autonomously inside indoor settings such as hospitals.

They are looking for a Mechanical Design Engineer to take ownership of the design, certification, documentation, and manufacturing of the first product, and later contribute to building a new kind of indoor vehicle. The role suits someone who approaches technical challenges creatively and has a solid grasp of mechanical systems, materials, and production methods.

Key responsibilities

• Develop mechanical concepts, detailed parts, and 3D CAD models for wheelchair-related components, including frames, mechanisms, and accessories, with attention to performance, robustness, and visual design.
• Create and evaluate prototypes, then refine designs based on test results and feedback while maintaining safety, performance, and compliance targets.
• Assess and choose suitable materials by weighing cost, strength, mass, sustainability, and ease of manufacture.
• Make independent design changes and technical adjustments when requirements evolve or engineering issues arise.
• Produce accurate drawings, specifications, and technical records that align with applicable regulatory and quality requirements.
• Coordinate with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure the product can be produced efficiently, economically, and to the expected quality level.
• Work with design, engineering, and product stakeholders to bring in new ideas and drive continuous product improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, automotive engineering, or a similar field.
• Prior experience in mechanical design, ideally within healthcare, mobility, or consumer products.
• Strong command of 3D CAD tools, specifically Fusion 360.
• Working knowledge of manufacturing methods such as welding, injection molding, and CNC machining.
• Familiarity with Google Workspace, Jira, and Confluence is considered helpful.
• Ability to work autonomously, take ownership, remain flexible, and collaborate effectively within a team.
• Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and close attention to detail.
• Practical experience using workshop equipment and testing tools.
• Preferred background includes medical devices, surfacing and complex geometry work, understanding of certification and regulatory pathways for medical devices, familiarity with extra programming languages such as Python or VHDL, and hands-on use of laboratory equipment and testing tools.

Benefits

• Chance to contribute to high-impact projects that improve healthcare.
• Fast-moving, innovative workplace where your work meaningfully shapes project outcomes.
• Access to advanced robotics and autonomous-system technologies and tools.
• Opportunities to grow professionally in a highly specialized domain.
• Competitive pay and benefits package aligned with market standards.

Additional information

The employer is committed to equal opportunity and an inclusive workplace where diversity is welcomed and respected.

Applicants are invited to join a compact, motivated team and help create meaningful change.