Mechanical & Systems Design Engineer

Company Overview

Untill is an agricultural technology company that develops automated vertical farming technology. We currently operate our patented technology through a commercial farm in Hudson, MA, growing pesticide-free leafy greens year-round and delivering fresh, local produce at competitive market pricing — not as a niche premium product.

Overview

We are seeking a mechanical and systems engineer to own the physical and electrical infrastructure of our current operation and to play a central role in designing and building the automation systems that will define our future facilities. You'll work hands-on alongside our team to engineer, iterate, and scale the technology that makes our farm run.

What You'll Do

• Design, build, and continuously improve automated production infrastructure including grow structures, automated conveyance systems, fluid delivery networks, and electrical control systems
• Specify, install, program, and maintain PLC-based automation systems to control and monitor production equipment
• Design, wire, and troubleshoot high-voltage and low-voltage electrical cabinet systems in compliance with applicable safety codes
• Lead the engineering design of automation systems for future Untill facilities — from concept and prototyping through full buildout
• Scope and manage multiple concurrent engineering projects, coordinating with external contractors and vendors to deliver on time and on budget
• Identify failure points and implement preventive maintenance programs for all mechanical, automation, and electrical systems
• Collaborate cross-functionally with cultivation staff to understand operational needs and translate them into automation and equipment solutions

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
• 7+ years of hands-on experience in mechanical and automation system design for manufacturing environments
• Demonstrated experience designing, maintaining, and troubleshooting complex automation systems
• Experience designing, building, and commissioning high-voltage and low-voltage electrical cabinet systems
• Experience programming and troubleshooting PLCs (Allen-Bradley, Siemens, or similar)
• Familiarity with NEC code, OSHA requirements for factory environments, and electrical safety best practices
• Demonstrated experience designing and troubleshooting pressurized plumbing and fluid handling systems
• Hands-on prototyping and fabrication experience (sheet metal, machining, structural assembly)
• Strong proficiency in SolidWorks
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, resource-constrained environment where you own problems end-to-end

What's Preferred

• Experience in startups or small manufacturing operations where you've worn multiple hats
• Experience with hydroponic or controlled-environment agriculture systems
• Proficiency in Python for automation scripting or data collection
• Experience modeling and designing HVAC systems
• Understanding of HMI integration with PLC systems
• Experience with food-grade manufacturing standards and handling requirements

Compensation & Benefits

Untill offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and the opportunity to build something from the ground up with a small, committed team. Our benefits package includes:

• 401(k) plan
• Fully subsidized health insurance plan
• Dental plan
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA) with company match
• Unlimited PTO
• Company stock option compensation