Senior Mechanical Design Engineer

LAI Games is a global leader in arcade and amusement experiences, designing and manufacturing innovative electro-mechanical machines enjoyed worldwide. We take products from concept through mass production, delivering engaging entertainment across physical and virtual platforms.

The Senior Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for converting creative concepts into robust, producible products. This role leads mechanical development from early concept through validation and production release, proactively de-risking technical uncertainties and ensuring reliable, cost-effective, and manufacturable solutions.

This is a highly hands-on technical role requiring strong workshop competency, production awareness, and the ability to lead prototype builds and field-level execution.

Key Responsibilities:

Mechanical Design & Development

• Convert creative and conceptual ideas into practical, producible mechanical systems.
• Create 3D models and 2D CAD drawings detailing design intent, supported by engineering calculations.
• Perform mechanical calculations (kinematics, torque, forces, basic stress analysis).
• Define GD&T and conduct tolerance analysis.
• Design for sheet metal fabrication (bending, welding, laser cutting) and secondary processes (powder coating, plating, painting).
• Design with plastics, plywood, MDF, and other non-ferrous materials.
• Ensure compliance with regulatory requirements (e.g., CE, UL).

DfX, Validation & Reliability

• Drive DfX principles including manufacturability, reliability, cost optimization, safety, and serviceability.
• Identify and de-risk technical unknowns through structured validation and testing.
• Develop validation plans, reliability test rigs, and associated test protocols.
• Conduct structured failure analysis of components and assemblies.
• Perform root cause investigations using systematic approaches such as 8D methodology and Ishikawa (Fishbone) diagrams.
• Support FMEA activities and document lessons learned to prevent recurrence of issues.
• Optimize designs for production efficiency.

Prototyping, Sourcing & Production

• Build and test prototypes via in-house workshops, vendors, and 3D printing (FDM).
• Source electro-mechanical and catalogue components (RFQs, supplier engagement).
• Specify and manage BOMs.
• Manage Engineering Change Notifications (ECNs) and supporting documentation.
• Support manufacturing ramp-up, alternate sourcing, and cost-reduction initiatives.
• Support on-site setup, validation, and supplier visits when required.

Collaboration & Leadership

• Lead mechanical engineering efforts on assigned projects.
• Review designs, drawings, BOMs, and calculations for reliability and safety.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to deliver projects on time, within scope, quality, and budget.
• Support customer field issues with data-backed engineering solutions.
• Provide technical input for user manuals and documentation.

Required Skills and Experience:

• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design of electro-mechanical machines.
• Strong proficiency in 3D and 2D CAD (Autodesk Inventor preferred).
• Experience with sheet metal design and fabrication processes.
• Solid understanding of mechanical engineering fundamentals and machine design.
• Experience performing tolerance analysis and engineering calculations.
• Experience creating and maintaining drawings, BOMs, and ECNs.
• Extensive hands-on prototyping and workshop experience.
• Experience conducting structured failure analysis and root cause investigations (8D approach, Ishikawa diagrams).LAI Games is a global leader in arcade and amusement experiences, designing and manufacturing innovative electro-mechanical machines enjoyed worldwide. We take products from concept through mass production, delivering engaging entertainment across physical and virtual platforms.
• Familiarity with PLM/PDM systems.
• Strong problem-solving mindset with the ability to de-risk uncertainty.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Creative, self-driven, resourceful, and collaborative team player.

Bonus Points:

• Mechatronics background.
• Experience designing vacuum-formed or injection-moulded parts.
• Experience with FDM 3D printing.
• Familiarity with Confluence or knowledge management systems.
• Passion for arcade games and entertainment products.

Qualifications/Education:

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or related discipline.