About Floe:Floe is a rapidly growing startup that has developed the smart, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution for managing hazardous ice and snow on roofs and around the building envelope. Compared to existing solutions, our automated system safely and effectively addresses dangerous buildup while reducing operating costs by >40% and carbon emissions by >99%.Originally spun out of MIT and Yale and tested with the U.S. Army Corp of Engineers, Floe has been validated at dozens of sites in some of the world’s harshest winter environments. Our technology is trusted by major national retailers, state governments, and large commercial and residential property owners across the US and Canada.As we scale rapidly and expand into new verticals, we are building a team of talented, mission-driven people who value impact, precision, and integrity. Our team thrives in a fast-paced, innovative environment and has an excellent results-oriented track record. We are eager to recruit individuals who are driven, thoughtful problem-solvers and who bring diverse perspectives to our mission.About the Role:Floe is looking for an exceptional Associate Product Engineer to work across the full product lifecycle, from design and prototyping to manufacturing and field deployment. This is a highly hands-on role focused on product development, design iteration, prototyping, testing, and continuous improvement. You will work closely with engineering leadership on design changes, new product R&D, validation testing, and field support, with direct exposure to real-world system performance. As Floe expands its in-house capabilities in Buffalo, you will also occasionally support manufacturing operations, product builds, and process development. This role sits at the unique intersection of product engineering and real-world deployment, where design decisions directly impact manufacturability, reliability, and customer outcomes. The successful candidate will have strong potential to grow into a Product Engineer or Manufacturing Lead role as the company scales. Responsibilities:Product Development & Testing
Support product design, prototyping, and R&D initiatives in collaboration with engineering leadership
Create and modify CAD models, assemblies, and technical drawings
Build and test prototypes, fixtures, and validation units
Plan and execute engineering tests to validate performance and reliability
Analyze field issues and test results to drive design improvements
Manufacturing & Product Improvement
Improve manufacturability and assembly efficiency through design iteration (DFM)
Help define assembly workflows, tooling, and workstation setups
Develop SOPs, build procedures, and technical documentation
Support quality control processes, checklists, and traceability systems
Field Deployment & Feedback
Collaborate with engineering and customer teams to support deployed systems
Travel occasionally to deployment sites to assist with installation, troubleshooting, and validation
Use field data and observations to inform product and design improvements
Hands-On Build & Operations Support
Assist occasionally with product assembly, including mechanical integration, wiring, and system setup
Perform functional testing, troubleshooting, and refurbishment of systems
Maintain build records to support certification and compliance efforts
Shop & Inventory Operations
Operate and maintain common shop tools and light fabrication equipment
Help maintain an organized, safe, and efficient workspace, including tooling, workstations, and equipment
Support material procurement, receiving, and inventory management
Assist with packing, shipping, and general warehouse operations
Cross-Functional Support
Support pilot deployments, field testing, prototype demonstrations, and product validation efforts
Contribute to company-wide problem solving across evolving technical and operational needs
Qualifications:Education & Experience
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related STEM discipline
0–3 years of engineering experience, including internships, co-ops, or significant hands-on project work
Demonstrated ability to build, troubleshoot, and work with physical systems
Technical Skills
Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g. OnShape, SolidWorks) for parts, assemblies, and professional drawings
Hands-on experience with mechanical and electrical tools (e.g. soldering, basic machining)
Familiarity with testing, validation, and debugging methods
Ability to read and create technical documentation, drawings, and procedures
Understanding of programming fundamentals. Specific experience with languages such as C++ or Python is a plus
Experience with DFM, tolerance analysis, or manufacturing processes is a plus
Problem-Solving & Working Style
Strong hands-on troubleshooting and practical problem-solving ability
High attention to detail and commitment to quality
Ability to identify risks and inefficiencies and propose improvements
Eagerness to work in a fast-paced, evolving startup environment
Strong sense of ownership, accountability, and integrity
Excellent communication and collaboration skills
Willingness to travel occasionally to support field, R&D, and deployment-related activities
Ability to occasionally lift up to 50 lbs
This is an in-person position based in Buffalo, NY Compensation for this role will be commensurate with experience, skills, education, and location.How to Apply:Please send a resume and a short note describing your interest and relevant experiences to both nick@43north.org and recruiting@floesafe.com If available, please also include 1–2 examples of products, systems, or projects you have worked on.Floe Inc is an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status. The company shall not discriminate against any applicant because of race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender, or gender identity (except where gender is a bona fide occupational qualification), national origin, age, disability, military/veteran status, marital status, genetic information, or any other factor protected by law. We are committed to equal employment opportunity in all decisions related to employment, promotion, wages, benefits and all other privileges, terms, and conditions of employment or engagement.
About 43North
43North is an accelerator program that invests $5 million per year to attract and retain high-growth startups in Buffalo, NY.
