About DriveNets
DriveNets is a leader in high-scale networking software for AI infrastructure and service providers. The company pioneered a disaggregated networking architecture that transforms the economics of large-scale networks while maximizing performance, utilization, and operational efficiency. DriveNets-powered networks are deployed by global leaders, including AT&T and Comcast, supporting more than 30% of total U.S. internet traffic. DriveNets AI Fabric delivers full-stack networking for AI infrastructures, providing the highest-performance, Ethernet-based alternative to InfiniBand. The solution is deployed by hyperscalers, NeoClouds, and enterprises worldwide. With over $1B raised, DriveNets continues to push the boundaries of modern networking infrastructure.
We are seeking an experienced and multifaceted Mechanical NPI & Manufacturing Engineer to own mechanical systems engineering, manufacturing transfer, advanced packaging, and thermal/liquid cooling integration across our high-performance networking portfolio.
In this role, you will lead end-to-end mechanical execution from late-stage R&D through volume manufacturing at global EMS/ODM facilities. Your scope spans chassis-level systems up to full-rack scale integration, custom packaging/palletization design, and advanced data center liquid cooling architectures. You will serve as the technical authority for mechanical quality, supplier qualification, transit reliability, and production line optimization.
What you'll do
NPI Transfer & Manufacturing Execution:
Lead seamless NPI-to-mass-production transfers, cataloging & verifying BOM completeness, 2D/3D drawing releases, and fabrication readiness for standalone switches and fully integrated rack systems.
Design and validate primary and secondary packaging solutions, including custom cushioning (EPE/EPP foam), corrugated structures, and chassis transit protection.
Define ESD shielding, Moisture Barrier Bags (MBB), and desiccant requirements for high-sensitivity optical and electronic assemblies.
Optimize palletization patterns, container cube utilization, stacking strength calculations, and pallet weight distribution for global freight.
Plan, execute, and certify transit/drop testing in accordance with international standards.
Manage day-to-day shipping deviations, packaging waivers, and disposition of in-transit damage.
Labeling & Regulatory Compliance Integration:
Design unit, carton, and pallet labels; select and qualify label substrates, adhesives, and print ribbons for environmental durability (abrasion, high temperature, humidity, UV resistance per UL standards).
Manage the physical integration and placement of global regulatory markings on chassis surfaces, rating plates, and packaging.
Thermal Management & Liquid Cooling Architecture:
Address mechanical-thermal integration challenges within high-power chassis and optical cages .
Oversee mechanical validation and assembly of Liquid Cooling systems for high-density compute/switching gear, including cold plates, manifolds, quick disconnects , hoses/piping routing, fluid loop integrity, and leak detection mechanisms.
Evaluate Thermal Interface Materials (TIMs), clamping force distribution, and flatness tolerances across high-power ASICs.
Supplier Quality, Sourcing & On-Site Audits:
Qualify mechanical fabrication vendors, sheet metal suppliers, precision machine shops, and server/telecom rack manufacturers.
Conduct on-site factory and supplier capability audits across Tier-1 EMS and ODM sites (evaluating stamping, CNC, die-casting, plating, painting, and assembly environments).
Review and sign off on First Article Inspections (FAI), packages, CMM dimensional reports, and material certifications .
Define Incoming Quality Control (IQC) inspection plans for mech items, Critical-to-Quality (CTQ) dimensions, and AQL sampling standards.
Production Support, Failure Analysis & Sustaining Engineering:
Provide active mechanical line support, quickly resolving production line stops, component mismatches, and Material Review Board (MRB) dispositions.
Lead mechanical Failure Analysis (FA), root-cause investigations , and implement robust mech Corrective/Preventive Actions.
Drive cost-reduction redesigns.
Qualify mechanical second sources to mitigate single-point supply chain risks.
Author and manage Engineering Change Orders (ECO/MCO), BOM updates, and CAD revisions for mech items within the company PLM system.
Experience: 6+ years of mechanical engineering experience in NPI, manufacturing, and sustaining environments within the networking, telecommunications, server, optics, or data center hardware industries.
System Integration Scope: Proven experience managing both box-level / chassis and Rack-level integration.
Data Center & Optical Familiarity: Hands-on experience with high-density Ethernet switches, fiber-optic routing, optical transceivers, and high-speed PCB mechanical constraints.
Thermal & Liquid Cooling Knowledge: Practical knowledge of mechanical liquid cooling architectures (cold plates, distribution manifolds, dripless quick disconnects, fluid routing, and leak mitigation).
Packaging & Logistics Expertise: Demonstrated track record in custom PE/box packaging design, pallet optimization, and transit qualification.
CAD & PLM Proficiency: Expert in 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks), and Proficiency with enterprise PLM systems (Agile, Arena).
Quality & Manufacturing Tools: Proficient in FAI sign-offs, CMM reports, AQL sampling, torque validation, and 8D failure analysis methodologies.
Communication & Mobility: Excellent English technical communication skills; willingness to travel periodically to overseas manufacturing and vendor sites (EMS/ODM/Mech Suppliers) for line audits, bring-ups, and ramp support.