Mechanical CAD Expert

Opportunity Overview

Handshake is looking for experienced mechanical design engineers to support AI research through flexible, part-time contract work. This is not a traditional job — you'll draw on your hands-on experience in parametric CAD, GD&T, and design for manufacturing to evaluate AI-generated content and provide feedback that helps AI reason like a practicing design engineer.

This is an ongoing, project-based opportunity you can take on alongside your current role.

What You'll Do

Use your domain expertise to create expert-level mechanical design problems and scenarios grounded in real CAD, tolerancing, and manufacturing workflows

Review and evaluate AI-generated responses for technical accuracy, manufacturability, and alignment with how the work is actually done

Provide structured written feedback to help improve AI model performance

Complete tasks at your own pace with no set schedule or minimum hour requirement

Qualifications

Ideal candidates meet all three of the following:

Industry experience — senior-level, with a portfolio of manufactured designs and complex GD&T/FEA work. A strong portfolio carries more weight than an advanced degree alone

Degree — BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering paired with hands-on industry experience

Sub-domain depth — demonstrated expertise in one of the following areas:

Parametric CAD (SolidWorks, CATIA, Fusion 360, Onshape)

GD&T and design for manufacturing (DFM)

FEA/simulation

Candidates who meet at least 2 of the 3 qualifications above are also encouraged to apply.

Additional qualifications (not required, but strengthen your application)

Proficiency across multiple CAD platforms and simulation environments

A portfolio demonstrating designs taken from concept through manufacturing

Required for all applicants

Must have US work authorization

Strong written communication and attention to detail

Ability to explain complex mechanical design concepts clearly

Ability to work independently in a remote, asynchronous environment

Work authorization information

F-1 students who are eligible for CPT or OPT may be eligible for projects on Handshake AI. Work with your Designated School Official to determine your eligibility.  If your school requires a CPT course, Handshake AI may not meet your school’s requirements. STEM OPT is not supported. See our Help Center article for more information on what types of work authorizations are supported on Handshake AI.