Engineering and Design Team Member

Engineering and Design Team Member (CNC)
Location: Sydney, Nova Scotia
Term: Full Time
Anticipated Start Date: As Soon As Possible
Type: In Office

Full transparency: we work a little differently around here.
This isn't just another job where you punch in and punch out. We come to work every day because we strive to earn a living in a meaningful way. Too many people go through their careers without finding joy or purpose in their work, and we believe that's just wrong. After all, we spend at least a third of our lives working—so why not build a workplace where people want to show up in the morning and leave feeling accomplished at the end of the day?

At Protocase, your ideas matter. We thrive on collaboration, where every voice is heard and improvements come from everywhere. If you want your work to count—not just for a customer, but for the team around you—you'll fit in here.

Protocase specializes in custom sheet metal enclosures, panels, and parts for engineers and innovators worldwide, built with unmatched speed and quality. We take complex ideas and turn them into reality for some of the brightest minds on the planet.

About Us
Established in 2001, Protocase Inc. combines advanced software with innovative manufacturing processes to deliver custom sheet metal solutions to engineers, designers, and researchers. With 400+ employees and more than 16,000 customers worldwide—including Boeing, Raytheon, Google, Apple, Microsoft, NASA, and MIT—we've built our reputation on speed, precision, and reliability. We are ISO:9001 certified, AS9100D registered, ITAR compliant, and registered with Canadian Controlled Goods.

Our business model is built on replacing traditional craft-based manufacturing with well-designed, repeatable processes. This allows us to deliver high-quality custom parts in as little as 2–3 days. We're growing quickly, and we're looking for people who want to help us continue refining and improving the way custom manufacturing is done.

About the Opportunity
You'll take customer-submitted designs and turn them into clear, production-ready instructions that move efficiently through our processes.

• Review drawings and 3D models to confirm manufacturability within Protocase capabilities.
  • Identify and communicate design adjustments that improve manufacturability, cost, or lead time.
  • Prepare accurate cost estimates to support the Sales team.
  • Build detailed job models and confirm technical requirements with customers prior to release.
  • Develop precise work instructions for the Production team.
  • Ensure designs are optimized for CNC machining and fabrication, considering tooling access, tolerances, and production flow.
  • Provide technical support to Sales, Production, and customers throughout the job lifecycle.
  • Investigate reported issues, determine root cause, and implement corrective actions.
  • Follow established procedures and contribute to ongoing process improvements.
  • Ensure all actions align with company ethical guidelines outlined on the company wiki.

About You

Our ideal candidate is detail-oriented, technically strong, and comfortable bridging the gap between customer intent and production reality. You take ownership of your work and understand that what looks good in CAD must also work on the shop floor.

Here's what you'll need to succeed:

• Education: A diploma or degree in Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Technology, or a related technical discipline (or equivalent practical experience).
• Experience: Experience in manufacturing, mechanical design, sheet metal, or a similar technical environment is an asset. Exposure to CNC-based manufacturing environments is advantageous.
• Skills:
  o Strong ability to read and interpret technical drawings and 3D models.
  o Understanding of how parts move through CNC machining and how design decisions affect tooling, tolerances, and manufacturability.
  o Ability to adjust designs with real-world production constraints in mind.
  o Clear communication skills when working with customers and cross-functional teams.
  o Strong problem-solving abilities and a proactive approach to resolving issues at all times.
  o High attention to detail and solid organizational skills.
  o A mindset focused on improving processes and preventing recurring issues.

Why us?
At Protocase, we believe in recognizing and rewarding hard work and dedication.

Our starting annual total compensation package—including base salary and performance incentives—ranges from $40,247 – $52,315, depending on experience.

In addition, you can look forward to:
• Training and Growth: Leadership training, skills development opportunities, and regular coaching.
• Comprehensive Health Care Plan and Company RRSP: Medical, Dental, Life Insurance, Group Insurance benefits, and a Registered Retirement Savings Plan after 6 months of full-time employment.
• Community Discounts: Discounts at local shops and restaurants.
• YMCA Membership: Cost-shared YMCA membership and a Pension Plan after three months of employment.
• Vacation: Two weeks of vacation, increasing to three weeks after three years, and four weeks after five years.
• Social Events: Seasonal parties and monthly lunches.
• Lifestyle of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia: Short commutes, affordable housing, beautiful scenery, and a strong sense of community.

Location

Sydney, Nova Scotia

Department

Engineering and Design Services

Employment Type

Full-time

Minimum Experience

Experienced

Compensation

$40,247 – $52,315