Part-Time Mechanical/Product Engineer (1099 Contractor)

Company: Grassflap
Position Type: Independent Contractor (1099)
Hours: 20–25 Hours Per Week
Schedule: 4–5 Hours Per Day, Weekdays Between 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM
Location: 1910 Brentmoor Lane, Louisville, KY

About GrassFlap

Grassflap designs and manufactures innovative foot- and hand-operated systems that allow operators to easily open and close the grass discharge flap beneath mower decks. Our products improve efficiency, usability, and control for commercial and residential mowing applications.

We are seeking a hands-on, versatile Engineer who enjoys mechanical design, product improvement, technical documentation, and applying new technologies to help a growing company scale.

Position Summary

The Part-Time Engineer will work directly with company leadership to support product development, engineering documentation, manufacturing improvements, and operational efficiency projects. This role combines mechanical engineering, CAD design, product documentation, photography, and technology implementation.

The ideal candidate is technically skilled, self-motivated, adaptable, and personable. We are looking for someone who enjoys working with people, solving practical problems, and helping bring innovative products to market.

Responsibilities

Product Design & Engineering

• Create and modify AutoCAD drawings for new and existing product components.
• Develop engineering drawings and documentation for manufacturing.
• Evaluate current designs and recommend improvements for performance, reliability, and manufacturability.
• Help standardize and modify components to increase interchangeability across product lines.
• Draw parts in both 2D and 3D, creating assemblies and Bills of Materials (BOM).
• Develop solutions for new mower designs, including animations and exploded views.
• Construct prototypes involving hands-on tasks such as welding, drilling, and grinding.

• Assist with prototype development and product testing.

Technical Documentation

• Create customer-facing installation instructions using Adobe Illustrator.
• Develop exploded views, diagrams, and assembly illustrations.
• Maintain organized engineering and product documentation.
• Document standard work procedures and technical writing/publishing for internal use.

Product Installation Support.

• Document installation processes for use in manuals, marketing materials, and training resources.
• Assist in creating visual content that improves customer understanding and product adoption.
• Visit dealers to obtain dimensions and conduct test fitment of products.

Process Improvement & Technology

• Research and implement AI-based tools to improve inventory control and operational efficiency.
• Assist with data organization, inventory tracking, and workflow automation initiatives.
• Recommend technology solutions that help streamline engineering and manufacturing processes.

General Support

• Collaborate with leadership on product development initiatives.
• Participate in problem-solving discussions and continuous improvement efforts.
• Support special projects as needed in engineering, operations, and product development.
• Communicate effectively with vendors and interact with production teams.
• Support customer service by answering technical questions and understanding website operations.

Required Qualifications

• Experience with AutoCAD or similar CAD software.
• Strong mechanical aptitude and engineering problem-solving skills.
• Ability to create technical documentation and assembly instructions.
• Proficiency with Adobe Illustrator.
• Experience working with manufactured products, mechanical systems, or fabrication processes.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Comfortable learning and implementing emerging technologies, including AI tools.
• Strong computer knowledge including hardware set-up and proficiency in Excel, Word, and Photoshop.
• Knowledge of BOM structures and flat steel fabrication (laser, welding, forming, packaging).
• Physical ability to lift, bend, and stand for extended periods.
• Safety-minded approach with an organized thought process and ability to prioritize.

Preferred Qualifications

• Mechanical Engineering degree or equivalent practical experience.
• Experience with consumer products, outdoor power equipment, or mechanical assemblies.
• Product development and prototyping experience.
• Familiarity with inventory management systems.
• Experience utilizing AI tools for business operations or process improvement.

Ideal Candidate

The right person for this role is:

• Friendly and personable with a positive attitude.
• Comfortable working directly with owners, vendors, and customers.
• Hands-on and practical in their approach to engineering.
• Curious and excited about improving products and processes.
• Able to balance engineering precision with real-world application.
• Dependable and available during weekday business hours.

Compensation

• Competitive hourly rate based on experience.
• Independent Contractor (1099) position.
• Approximately 20–25 hours per week.
• Flexible schedule within normal business hours (9:00 AM – 3:00 PM weekdays).
• Opportunity to help shape the future of an innovative and growing product company.

To Apply: Please submit your resume along with examples of CAD work, technical documentation, or product design projects that demonstrate your engineering and communication abilities.