Mechanical Engineer (Junior) -- Switchgear & Power Systems in Hackettstown, New Jersey at JDC Power Systems Inc

JDC Power Systems is seeking a Junior Mechanical Engineer to join our Hackettstown, NJ office. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or early-career engineer to develop practical mechanical design skills in the switchgear and power distribution industry.
In this role, you will support the mechanical design and coordination of low- and medium-voltage switchgear, power distribution equipment, and control enclosures. Working under the mentorship of senior engineers, you will gain hands-on experience with 3D CAD modeling, drawing interpretation, enclosure design, and bus bar layout verification.
This position offers structured on-the-job training, exposure to real manufacturing challenges, and the opportunity to contribute to build-ready designs that ship to customers worldwide. You will work closely with electrical engineers, controls specialists, manufacturing, and field service teams to understand how mechanical design impacts the entire product lifecycle.

Responsibilities and Duties
Assist in developing 3D CAD models and assemblies for switchgear and enclosure designs under senior engineer guidance

Learn to interpret electrical drawings and coordinate mechanical layouts with electrical intent

Support verification of bus bar alignment, phase spacing, supports, and clearances within enclosures

Participate in identifying dimensional conflicts and conflicts between bus bars, breakers, CTs, and other components

Support the creation of mechanical drawings from 3D models under review by senior engineers

Evaluate designs for manufacturability, assembly, and maintenance access with guidance from mentors

Attend design reviews and manufacturing discussions to understand real-world engineering challenges

Communicate findings and design questions to senior team members and cross-functional partners
Education and Experience
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related engineering discipline (graduating students or recent graduates welcome to apply)

0 to 3 years of mechanical engineering experience; fresh talent with strong fundamentals preferred

Academic or internship experience with 3D CAD modeling (any platform) is a plus

Exposure to electrical concepts, tolerancing, or enclosure design is helpful but not required

Required Skills
Proficiency in CAD modeling (EPLAN, Solid Edge, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or AutoCAD experience valued)

Understanding of basic dimensions, tolerances, and mechanical design principles
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings

Strong attention to detail and accuracy

Problem-solving mindset and willingness to learn from feedback

Ability to manage assigned tasks and meet deadlines

Good communication skills and ability to ask questions and seek clarification

Preferred Skills
Interest in or exposure to electrical power systems, switchgear, or industrial equipment

Familiarity with sheet metal, enclosure, or panel design

Internship or capstone project experience in mechanical design or manufacturing

Experience with or knowledge of ERP systems

What We Offer
Structured mentorship from experienced mechanical engineers and technical leads

Hands-on experience with industry-standard CAD tools and design workflows

Direct exposure to manufacturing, field service, and customer interactions

Clear career growth path into mid-level and senior mechanical engineering roles

Supportive team environment focused on professional development

Travel Requirements
Minimal travel initially; approximately 10% once experienced
Travel to customer sites and manufacturer locations may increase with seniority
Standard business hours with flexibility for design reviews and meetings
Out-of-area extended travel arrangements provided by JDC
Expenses related to travel and meals while traveling are covered at cost

JDC Power Systems, LLC is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where all employment decisions are made on an individual basis without regard to characteristics protected by federal, state, or local law.

JDC Power Systems, LLC believes that supporting a respectful and inclusive workplace is critical to our success. JDC Power Systems, LLC is committed to making our application process accessible to all applicants and will provide reasonable accommodations upon request as required.