Description
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.
About the Role
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.
Key Responsibilities
- 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.
- Author, validate, and maintain detailed Mechanical Assembly & Process Instructions for global contract manufacturing lines.
- Define together with R&D precision assembly parameters: torque specifications, fastening tooling, screw tightening sequences, and structural assembly guidelines.
- Design, validate, and commission mechanical assembly jigs, alignment fixtures, and high efficiancy tooling to ensure repeatable line assembly.
- Advanced Packaging, Palletization & Logistics Engineering:
- 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.
- Mechanical Reliability & Environmental Qualification:
- Plan and execute mechanical stress testing.
