Mechanical Design Engineer (Contractor)

Tangent is Growing Our Mechanical Engineering Bench

Tangent is a Calgary-based product development firm that solves complex engineering challenges across consumer electronics, industrial systems, and more. We are deeply technical, practical in our approach, and focused on building reliable hardware that performs in the real world, not just on paper.

The Opportunity

We are expanding our bench of independent mechanical design engineering contractors for upcoming project-based work.

This is not an employee role and it is not a full-time position. It is an opportunity for established independent contractors or consultants to partner with Tangent on defined projects as needs arise. Engagements may range from targeted design support to ownership of a full subassembly or mechanical workstream.

We are looking for people who can step in quickly, work with a high degree of autonomy, and contribute meaningful technical value without extensive ramp-up.

The Kind of Work

Depending on the project, you may be engaged to

• Develop mechanical concepts and detailed designs for physical products
• Create 3D models, production drawings, and design documentation in SolidWorks
• Support design reviews and cross-functional problem solving
• Contribute to DFM, tolerance analysis, materials selection, and FEA
• Support prototype builds and manufacturing readiness
• Take ownership of a component, subsystem, or defined mechanical scope

Ideal Background

We are most interested in individuals who already operate as independent contractors, consultants, or incorporated engineering service providers.

You likely bring

• Strong experience in mechanical design for physical products
• Advanced SolidWorks capability, including detailed design and production drawings
• Confidence working through real-world engineering constraints, not just concept generation
• Working knowledge of manufacturing methods, prototyping, and product development processes
• The ability to document clearly, communicate well, and integrate into multidisciplinary teams
• Experience collaborating with electrical, industrial design, and project management teams

What Makes Someone a Fit

You are likely a strong fit if you

• Can work independently and manage your own deliverables
• Are comfortable working on a project or scope basis rather than fixed ongoing hours
• Can plug into an existing team and add value quickly
• Have examples of shipped products, manufacturable designs, or complex mechanical problem-solving
• Already provide services as an independent contractor or consultant

What You’ll Gain

• Exposure to a variety of technical challenges and industries
• Clearly scoped project opportunities
• The chance to work with a thoughtful, highly technical team
• Opportunities to contribute to real products with practical impact

How to Reach Us

We are not looking for a formal application package. Send us:

• A short introduction
• A portfolio, project summary, or work sample
• A brief note on the kinds of mechanical design work you typically take on as an independent contractor

We are particularly interested in real-world examples where you owned the mechanical design, solved a difficult technical problem, or helped move a product toward manufacturing.

Job Type: Freelance

Application question(s)

• I understand this is an independent contractor opportunity, not an employment position.
• I am currently set up to provide services as an independent contractor, including invoicing and GST registration where applicable.
• I understand there are no guaranteed hours, no exclusivity, and I remain free to contract with other clients.

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Calgary, AB