Company Overview

Kindred is a rapidly growing, venture backed start-up focused on unlocking the conversion of gasoline vehicles to electric using our technology and scale.

We are marketing folks, technicians, software developers, mechanical engineers, designers, painters, and car lovers. We love a whiff of gasoline and we geek out about the torque provided by electric motors. Above all we believe the world is a better place with vintage cars out on the road.

We strive to create a meaningful workplace at Kindred, which means something different for each of our team members. For some, it’s getting these immortal vehicles on the road. For others it’s the portion of revenue we donate to our local community for every vehicle sold. For many at Kindred, it’s the inclusive work environment we’ve created.

Our cars create joyful experiences for our customers and immense pride for our team. If you can match our passion, values, and work ethic, we want you!

Position Summary

We are seeking a passionate and experienced Mechanical Engineer to join our dynamic team. This role is critical in developing innovative solutions for new products and improving our existing product lines. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in mechanical engineering, with specific experience in Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) processes, prototype development, and New Product Introduction (NPI). This position requires a blend of technical expertise, hands-on mechanical skills, and a deep understanding of manufacturing lines. Startup experience required.

Engineering Team Values

• One Team – You are a team player and can show up in a capacity to support others as well as yourself.
• Communication – You are dedicated to connecting with the team on a technical and human level.
• Trust and Respect - We are doing something new and innovative. Your level of openness to other’s ideas as well as your own creations are of paramount value.
• Engineering Discipline – Your attention to detail and commitment to driving design through to completion of project timelines.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The essential functions include, but are not limited to the following:

• Design and develop mechanical components, systems, and products.
• Own the entire lifecycle of product development from concept through design, prototyping, testing, and into production.
• Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including manufacturing, quality, and supply chain, to integrate mechanical designs into production lines.
• Utilize hands-on mechanical experience to troubleshoot and solve complex engineering problems.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of technical documentation, including design files, assembly instructions, and test reports.
• Implement continuous improvement practices to enhance product performance and manufacturing processes.
• Stay abreast of industry trends, technologies, and best practices to drive innovation within the company.

Minimum Qualifications (Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities)

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of engineering experience, with a strong focus on mechanical engineering and OEM processes.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience in mechanical design, prototyping, and product development.
• Extensive knowledge of manufacturing processes and experience working directly on manufacturing lines.
• Proven track record in New Product Introduction (NPI) and bringing products from concept to market.
• Proficiency in CAD software and engineering tools for design and simulation.
• Experience using Product Lifecycle Management systems
• Excellent skills in technical documentation, including creating and maintaining detailed engineering drawings and specifications.
• Highly adaptable and view change as an opportunity for growth and innovation

Desired Skills

• Passion for automotive restoration and modification
• Advanced Engineering degree
• CA Licensed Professional Mechanical Engineer
• Interest in Electric Vehicle conversions
• Familiarity with EV components, systems, and manufacturing processes

Physical Demands and Work Environment

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the functions.

Walking, sitting, standing, bending, and stooping. Lifting, carrying, or pushing/pulling supplies, materials, equipment and/or items weighing up to 75 pounds. Clean and well-organized unconditioned shop environment. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate but at times requires ear plugs, use of eye protection, and/or occasional use of a respirator.

Note

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others. The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities. This document does not create an employment contract, implied or otherwise, other than an “at will” relationship.

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer, drug free workplace, and complies with ADA regulations as applicable.