Senior Mechanical Engineer

About the Role

Join eShepherd, part of Gallagher Animal Management Chile, as a Senior Mechanical Engineer based in Hamilton, Waikato, New Zealand. You will play an integral role in developing advanced virtual fencing technologies by overseeing full mechanical design processes, from initial concepts through prototyping to production and field usage. This position offers a hands-on, collaborative environment with tangible impact on products used by farmers globally.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components, assemblies, and mechanisms for both new and existing agricultural hardware products.
• Manage design ownership throughout all stages including prototyping, testing, production release, and ongoing improvements.
• Create practical solutions involving plastics, sheet metal, enclosures, and structural elements.
• Support manufacturing readiness, design for manufacturability (DFM) reviews, and prototype building and testing.
• Investigate in-field product issues, leading root cause analysis and implementing solutions.
• Integrate customer and field feedback to enhance product functionalities and reliability.
• Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturing partners to optimize product performance and durability.
• Contribute to engineering best practices and mentor less experienced engineers as needed.

Who We Are Looking For

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in mechanical or product development engineering with demonstrable product design success to production.
• Strong knowledge of manufacturing processes, DFM principles, and supplier collaboration.
• Hands-on experience with plastics, mechanical assemblies, mechanisms, or electromechanical products.
• Proficient in troubleshooting failures and applying structured problem-solving techniques.
• CAD skills, preferably with Creo, though not mandatory.
• Team-oriented with strong communication skills and a practical approach to engineering challenges.

Preferred Qualifications

• Background in research and development or fast-paced product development settings.
• Experience with electronics or mechatronics integration.
• Familiarity with supporting products already deployed in the market.
• History within organizations that design and manufacture their own physical products.

The Work Environment

Our engineering approach emphasizes usability, reliability, and constant improvement over theoretical perfection. You'll be part of a dynamic, scaling agritech business with the stability and resources provided by Gallagher.

Benefits and Compensation

• Competitive salary accompanied by incentives.
• Opportunities for career advancement.
• A collaborative culture offering real ownership of engineering projects.
• Comprehensive benefits including life and disability insurance, KiwiSaver contributions, well-being support, and additional staff perks.
• Convenient free parking and a subsidized café at the Hamilton office.

Application Information

Applications will be reviewed as received, and the position may be filled before the official closing date. Strong practical engineers with a curious mindset and product focus are encouraged to apply, even if all qualifications are not met.