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Hiring now · posted 3d ago Science Contract · On-site / hybrid

Mechanical / CAD Engineer

$60–$100/hr

Published pay. The final rate depends on your test, experience and country.

United States Language: English Posted 9 Nov 2026

Mechanical / CAD Engineer is AI-training work for engineers, paying $60–$100/hr, open to applicants in United States. Posted 9 Nov 2026, still open on 13 Nov 2026. Zekai lists it for free; the application goes to the employer's platform.

About this role

Preparing for this role? See the best AI tools for engineers, practise with ready-made prompts for engineers, read The 12 Best AI Tools for Architects in 2026 (Tested & Ranked) and take the free 30-day AI challenge.

Join a leading AI lab's cutting-edge GenAI team to be at the core of the AI revolution, where your expertise fuels the development of the most advanced Large Language Models.

1. Overview

Join a leading AI lab's cutting-edge GenAI team and help build foundational AI models from the ground up. We're seeking talented Mechanical Design and CAD Engineers with hands-on expertise in mechanical design, parametric CAD and 3D modeling to bring real-world design and engineering judgment and elevate the quality of our AI training data.

This is a W-2 employment position with Cincinnatus LLC, with the opportunity to be placed at a leading AI Lab as part of their extended workforce.

2. Key Responsibilities
  • Guide research and engineering teams to close knowledge gaps and improve AI model performance in mechanical design and CAD, parametric 3D modeling, and design for manufacturing topics.
  • Design challenging, domain-relevant tasks, and write accurate and well-structured solutions to mechanical design and CAD problems.
  • Evaluate mechanical design and CAD tasks and solutions and provide clear, written technical feedback.
  • Create and evaluate CAD modeling tasks, engineering drawings and design problems, and produce accurate reference models and solutions.
  • Develop rubrics to assess geometric accuracy, design intent, tolerancing (GD&T) and manufacturability.
  • Collaborate with other subject matter experts to ensure consistency and accuracy in training data.
3. Core Qualifications
  • 4+ years of dedicated professional experience in mechanical design or CAD engineering at a recognized, top-tier organization (e.g., Apple, Tesla, SpaceX, Boeing, GE, or leading product design and manufacturing firms).
  • Expert proficiency in at least one parametric CAD tool: SolidWorks, CATIA, Siemens NX, Creo, Onshape or Fusion 360.
  • Working knowledge of GD&T, engineering drawings and design for manufacturing.
  • Demonstrable career progression.
  • Ability to engage reliably for at least 20 hours/week during weekdays.
  • Strong written communication skills and the ability to explain complex technical decisions clearly.

About Cincinnatus LLC: Cincinnatus LLC is an enterprise staffing company that partners with leading technology companies to source and employ highly skilled professionals for contingent and contract-based opportunities. Cincinnatus serves as the employer of record for these engagements, providing W-2 employment, payroll, benefits, and compliance, while placing employees directly within client teams to work on high-impact initiatives.

Equal Employment Opportunity: Cincinnatus is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, reproductive health decisions, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, genetic information, political views or activity, or any other legally protected characteristic.

Location: United States.

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  3. Most platforms ask for a CV and a short skills test or AI interview in your field.
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Your plan for “Mechanical / CAD Engineer”

What to know before you apply

Pay
At the published rate, 10 hours a week would be about $600–$1,000 and 20 hours about $1,200–$2,000 before tax. Hours depend on the project, so treat this as a ceiling, not a promise.
Location
Only applicants located in United States can be paid for this role. Platforms usually verify where you are, so apply only if you are based there.
Credentials
The listing asks for 4+ years of experience. Put it in the first line of your profile: reviewers screen for it before anything else.
Test tips for engineers
  • Check units, loads and code references in every answer.
  • Sketch the system or structure before judging the AI's description of it.
  • Name the standard (Eurocode, ASCE, IEC…) you are applying.
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    Practise with real prompts

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    Concept Rendering (Midjourney, PromeAI)

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    Design Variation (Veras, MyArchitectAI)

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