About Us
Sand Helper designs, manufactures, and rents powered and all-terrain mobility devices that enhance independence and accessibility for individuals of all mobility levels. We are a tight-knit, innovation-focused engineering and manufacturing operation where each team member plays a meaningful role in product development, prototyping, and hands-on problem-solving.
Position Overview
We are seeking a Design Engineer with strong SolidWorks proficiency and a background in mechanical or electrical engineering. This role blends CAD design with hands-on fabrication, testing, and prototyping. The ideal candidate is comfortable moving between SolidWorks modeling, machining, assembling, troubleshooting, and iterative design refinement.
Location: This is an in-person role at our Crofton, MD facility.
Please note that as the company expands, we expect to relocate closer to the Columbia or Ellicott City, MD area within the next one to two years. Candidates should be willing to commute to either location.
Key Responsibilities
- Create, modify, and manage part and assembly models in SolidWorks (major component of the role).
- Design and prototype mechanical systems, including drivetrains, gear and sprocket systems, frames, and mobility mechanisms.
- Build, test, and refine prototypes using hand tools, power tools, machining tools, and general fabrication methods.
- Perform basic electrical tasks: wiring, connectors, battery systems, and motor controller integration.
- Operate or assist with equipment including saws, drills, grinders, welders (if experienced), and other fabrication tools.
- Utilize machining-related equipment and methods (drill press, bandsaw, belt sander, etc.).
- Research and procure prototype parts and components; maintain BOM accuracy during development.
- Help with shop organization, upkeep, and workflow efficiency, including occasional cleaning and maintenance.
- Support the broader team during high-demand periods (e.g., answering phones or helping with general shop tasks).
- Collaborate on design improvements, safety enhancements, reliability testing, and manufacturable solutions.
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related field.
- Strong SolidWorks proficiency, including part modeling, assemblies, and mechanical design fundamentals.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks associated with prototyping and assembly.
- Proficiency with hand tools and power tools (drills, impacts, grinders, saws, etc.).
- Familiarity with machining or mechanical fabrication tools.
- Strong understanding of motors, drivetrains, gears, and mechanical power transmission systems.
- Willingness to work in a highly hands-on engineering environment and take on varied responsibilities.
Bonus Skills
(Not required — tell us if you have any of these!)
- Welding (MIG/TIG) or metal fabrication experience
- Familiarity with CNC equipment (mills, routers) or machining workflows
- Experience with 3D printing and rapid prototyping
- Basic electronics experience involving wiring harnesses, battery systems, or motor controllers
- Experience building mechanical prototypes, robots, mobility devices, or similar systems
Personal Attributes
- Flexible and adaptable — willing to support operations outside core engineering when needed
- Hands-on, practical problem solver who enjoys building and testing as much as designing
- Organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple tasks
- Comfortable working in a workshop environment where iteration and creativity are valued
Compensation
Base Salary Range: $55,000 – $65,000, depending on experience, education, and demonstrated skills (including SolidWorks proficiency and hands-on capabilities).
Benefits
- Health insurance (reimbursement through a QSEHRA program)
- Paid time off (PTO)
- Paid sick days
- Paid parental leave
- Career development opportunities
- Company-paid training and certification courses
Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Flexible schedule
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Professional development assistance
Application Question(s):
- Are you willing to commute to Crofton, MD for now, and to Columbia or Ellicott City, MD in the future if/when the company moves to a new facility?
- How would you describe your proficiency with SolidWorks?
(For example: no experience, beginner, moderate, highly proficient, or expert.)
- How much experience do you have in designing or prototyping mechanical or electromechanical systems (e.g., motors, drivetrains, gears, mobility devices, robotics)?
- Do you have experience working with tools such as wrenches, sockets, pullers, presses, or other automotive/mechanical tools? Please describe.
- What kinds of mechanical projects have you worked on outside of school or work (e.g., cars, motorcycles, bicycles, small engines, robots, custom builds)?
Work Location: In person
