# Brad B. > Mechanical Engineer Lead | Advanced Mechanical Design | Product Lifecycle Management | Simulation & Analysis (FEA) | Manufacturing Processes & Techniques Location: San Francisco Bay Area, United States Profile: https://flows.cv/bradb As a Mechanical Engineering Leader with extensive experience in steering product design and development towards operational excellence, I cultivated a diverse and robust skill set in strategic leadership and mechanical engineering management. My most recent role as the Senior Mechanical Engineer Manager at Fossil Group equipped me with skills in shaping visionary strategies to maintain high standards of product innovation. In this capacity, I rejuvenated product development structures, ensuring the integration of aesthetic and functional elements and championing initiatives that led to the production of Gen 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5 and 6 smart watches. My dedication to excellence and strategic approach led to noteworthy achievements, such as transforming product design and development processes and enhancing product reliability through the introduction and improvement of manufacturing processes. Additionally, I introduced a patented technology for watch case manufacturing, driving significant cost savings and managing the scaling of the process with vendors. Taking on the role at Vocera, I embraced a variety of challenges and responsibilities, guiding the development of next-generation hospital communication devices. Here, I gained invaluable knowledge in communication device design and worked closely with audio engineers and other cross functional teams to ensuring our products met the diverse needs of various hospital environments. Embarking on a journey as a Mechanical Design at Square, I focused on enhancing CAD database integrity for a POS system and developing a new POS reader tailored for the European market. My efforts in implementing innovative design concepts and addressing discrepancies between CAD designs and produced units facilitated accurate failure analysis and ensured seamless assembly and high standards of product quality. Transitioning to SurfaceInk, my role was pivotal in addressing challenges in ergonomics, material attachment, and thermal cycling, and conducting extensive material analysis focused on charger pin corrosion. This journey allowed me to pioneer design solutions for wearables and develop consumer electronics for major clients. Here, I delved into enhancing Fitbit's early trackers by developing waterproof designs and integrating altimeter technology for stair-tracking features. If you’re looking for someone who delivers best-in-class mechanical engineering solutions and manages the entire product development cycle, from conceptualization to mass production. ## Work Experience ### Founding Product Design Engineer @ Orbit Jan 2025 – Present | San Francisco, California, United States Building the interface to emotion. ### Independent Consultant @ Independent Consultant Jan 2025 – Jan 2025 | San Francisco Bay Area • Delivered engineering support for advanced technologies, including robotics, drones, and IoT devices. • Optimized product design and manufacturing processes using CAD, FEA, and DFM methodologies. • Collaborated with startups to enhance their supply chain development efforts, driving innovation and efficiency. ### Senior Mechanical Engineer @ Meta @ Magnit Jan 2024 – Jan 2025 | Sunnyvale, California, United States Senior Mechanical Engineer on an NTI (New Technology Introduction) team for Meta’s AR smart glasses. ### Senior Mechanical Engineer Manager @ Fossil Group, Inc. Jan 2020 – Jan 2023 | San Francisco Bay Area During this role, I played a pivotal role in revolutionizing the product development lifecycle. My focus was on crafting innovative and efficient product designs and methodologies, which proved instrumental. This strategic transformation successfully launched the fourth, fifth-, and sixth-generation smartwatches. Taking the initiative, I spearheaded the design and development of a diverse Smart Watch product portfolio. This portfolio includes a wide range of high-end to mid-range, low-end, and hybrid watches for major brands, including Fossil, Michael Kors, Armani, Skagen, Diesel, Kate Spade, and Citizen. My role involved meticulously architecting the devices and proficiently managing cross-functional teams to bring the company’s vision to life. This included the day-to-day management of the Connected Devices Mechanical team of 5 Mechanical Engineers strategically located in San Mateo, China, Taiwan, and Singapore. SELECTED ACCOMPLISHMENTS: - Introduced laser soldering to boost product reliability, reduce field failures, and optimize assembly processes. - Developed and patented a technology for watch case manufacturing, achieving significant cost savings. Managed process scaling with two vendors to maintain quality and production efficiency. - Facilitated the smooth production of millions of units by developing the supply chain for essential components, performing risk analysis, and securing vendor backups. ### Senior Mechanical Engineer @ Fossil Group, Inc. Jan 2017 – Jan 2020 | San Mateo, Ca Here, I had the privilege of overseeing and managing the evolution of a variety of smartwatch models. This role presented the unique challenge of accommodating varied external designs while ensuring consistent internal electromechanical configurations. My approach to innovation in wearable technology was multifaceted. It involved fostering valuable relationships with vendors and JDM partners and delving deep into research on groundbreaking materials and technologies. A notable achievement during this period was driving substantial cost reductions in display lamination. By optimizing supply chain strategies, conducting astute negotiations with vendors, and implementing competitive pricing models, I successfully decreased lamination costs. After five years of visionary leadership and unwavering persistence, I was proud to introduce the innovative Glass-to-Metal Sealing technology for wearable devices. This technological advancement played a pivotal role in enhancing the performance and reliability of our products through hermetic sealing and chemical resistance. ### Staff Mechanical Engineer @ Vocera Jan 2016 – Jan 2017 | San Francisco Bay Area In this role, I spearheaded the overhaul and evolution of a state-of-the-art hospital communication device. This involved executing extensive modifications to the architecture and rectifying previously existing design imperfections. The result was a device that surpassed expectations in both functionality and efficiency, signifying a notable progression in hospital communication solutions. A fundamental requirement of this project was to attain the necessary waterproofing, as specified by the IP rating. This objective was realized through the careful selection and amalgamation of materials and components, emphasizing my dedication to ensuring the device's dependability and endurance in a variety of hospital settings. Furthermore, I played a crucial role in streamlining the software development process. By delivering preliminary prototypes of the device promptly, I facilitated parallel progress in backend development by the software team. This synchronized approach was vital in adhering to the project’s schedules and financial plans, guaranteeing the smooth advancement of the initiative. ### Mechanical Engineer @ Fitbit Jan 2015 – Jan 2016 Here, I was tasked with accelerating the development of the Blaze smartwatch frame. I successfully turned around a six-month delay by leading a committed team, employing streamlined CAD models, and establishing synergies with four vendors across Asia. I focused on improving button functionality through close collaboration with the electrical engineering team and detailed analysis of the electromechanical stack-up, achieving seamless interaction between the smartwatch’s frame and capsule components. Addressing lamination issues in the optical windows was another critical aspect of my role. Engaging in cross-functional collaborations, assessing tools at vendor sites, and offering valuable feedback and solutions, I played an active role in elevating product design and quality. My involvement was instrumental in resolving potential challenges and ensuring the final product met our high standards. Moreover, I was pivotal in enhancing production scalability. By orchestrating a smooth transition from prototype to production, I guaranteed uniform quality and functionality across diverse manufacturing sites. This approach was essential in maintaining production integrity and meeting the varying demands of our manufacturing landscape. ### Founder @ Deep Powder Systems Jan 2011 – Jan 2015 Leading a company on many fronts to create a new safety product for snowboarding deep powder. Please follow my journey to make snowboarding deep powder much safer for all snowboarder After pursuing this idea of a new safety device for snowboarding deep powder for four years. I have tabled this company and concept to be picked up at a later date, after more technology advancements are made that will make this idea more feasible. One day this concept will make riding deep powder safer for all snowboarders. ### Mechanical Engineer @ Square Jan 2014 – Jan 2014 Here, I addressed discrepancies between CAD designs and the units produced, which was crucial for enhancing CAD database integrity for a project. This approach paved the way for accurate failure analysis. Drawing on collaboration with cross-functional teams and innovative design concepts, I played a pivotal role in developing a new credit card reader tailored for the European market. A testament to our meticulous approach was the achievement of a flawless first development build for the plastic housing of this new reader. To refine the production process, I provided invaluable Design for Manufacturability (DfM) insights, addressing manufacturability concerns and playing a key role in the project's success. By ensuring seamless assembly and upholding the highest standards of product quality, I expedited the transition from prototype to production through meticulous maintenance and management of CAD drawings and designs. ### Product Design Engineer @ SurfaceInk | Product Development Jan 2012 – Jan 2014 | San Francisco Bay Area Here, I played an integral role in enhancing their functionality and durability by developing waterproof designs and incorporating innovative altimeter technology for stair-tracking features. This involved addressing a myriad of challenges in ergonomics, material attachment, and thermal cycling, but through perseverance and innovation, I pioneered design solutions for wearables. To ensure the longevity and reliability of the products, I conducted extensive material analysis and trials focusing on charger pin corrosion and optimized the gold plating thickness to prevent wear and maintain strong electrical connections. Collaborating with major clients, including Fitbit and Square, I delved into the development of consumer electronics, transforming initial concepts into manufacturable designs, and providing invaluable Design for Manufacturability (DfM) insights. ### Lead Engineer @ CKC Engineering Jan 2009 – Jan 2012 In this role, I created a groundbreaking aseptic manufacturing process for drug implants. This innovation ensured that the implants produced adhered to the stringent cleanliness and sterility requirements essential for both clinical trials and eventual market release. In a bid to achieve substantial cost savings for the client, I invented a disposable, implant-grade plastic part. This inventive solution effectively replaced the more expensive stainless steel handlers, demonstrating a balance of quality and cost-efficiency. Faced with the challenge of maintaining aseptic conditions during manufacturing, I took the initiative to design a piece of equipment from the ground up. This led to the creation of a novel method to assemble drug implants, eliminating the need for human touch and thereby maintaining the highest standards of sterility. Furthermore, I played a significant role in scaling up the production of drug implants. By developing equipment designed to facilitate higher production volumes, I supported the advancement of two drugs through clinical trials, paving the way for their introduction to the market. ### Product Design Engineer @ SurfaceInk Jan 2008 – Jan 2009 Here, I took charge of managing and maintaining the CAD database for a glucose meter project at Medtronics. My role was multifaceted, involving a series of rigorous tests to ensure the device met stringent medical requirements. This included extensive drop testing, ESD testing, and waterproofness trials, all aimed at addressing specific challenges such as speaker exposure and device protection to uphold industry standards. I was instrumental in enhancing the device's durability and reliability, a feat achieved through the implementation of lanyard pull tests and comprehensive FDA analysis. This meticulous approach underscored our commitment to delivering a product that stood up to the demands of the medical field. A significant part of my responsibility also lies in ensuring the integrity of CAD and the accuracy of production. By diligently managing and updating drawings and designs, I facilitated seamless transitions from the prototype to the production phases. This attention to detail was pivotal in maintaining high standards of product quality, showcasing our dedication to excellence in every stage of development. ### R&D Design Manager @ Westek Electronics Jan 2007 – Jan 2008 During this job, I managed a small team with a specific focus on the design and development of hand tools. These tools were not just ordinary equipment; they were specialized for use in the dynamic and ever-evolving telecommunications industry. Through collaborative efforts and a shared vision, I delved into research, design iterations, and rigorous testing, ensuring that our hand tools stood up to the challenges of the field and brought tangible improvements to the work of telecommunications professionals. ### Mechanical Engineer @ Easton Bell Sports Jan 2002 – Jan 2007 During this job, I designed and developed a diverse range of helmets, encompassing road bike, mountain, and snow sports. My focus has been centered on enhancing mechanical impact structures and retention systems, ensuring each helmet meets the highest standards of safety and performance, regardless of its application. ### Mechanical Engineer @ LifePort Inc. Jan 2001 – Jan 2002 | Portland, Oregon Area Lead Mechanical Designer of emergency air transport equipment ### Mechanical Engineer @ Hover-Davis Jan 1998 – Jan 2000 | San Francisco Bay Area Lead Mechanical Engineer of automated tape feeder equipment for the SMT Industry ### Mechanical Engineer @ Automation Tooling Company Jan 1995 – Jan 1998 | San Francisco Bay Area In my role as a Mechanical Engineer at Automation Tooling Company, I spearheaded the development of cutting-edge automated test equipment for the disk drive industry. My focus was on enhancing product reliability for clients such as Western Digital and Seagate, which resulted in significant improvements in testing efficiency and production output. I collaborated closely with multidisciplinary teams to drive innovation and optimize engineering processes. ## Education ### AS in Drafting Technology Cabrillo College ### Certificate of Achievement in Programming: CNC-CAD/CAM De Anza College ## Contact & Social - LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/brad-b-b84960 --- Source: https://flows.cv/bradb JSON Resume: https://flows.cv/bradb/resume.json Last updated: 2026-04-13