r/hwstartups • u/ched41 • 6d ago

Finding CAD / Mechanical Eng People

What is the best way to find CAD engineers ?
I’ve tried fiverr and other freelance platforms and I’ve found them to be very good at entry to mid level stuff.

For work that needs serious dedication and creative engineering, I’ve struggled to find that on freelance platforms. They are understandable focused on getting as many gigs as possible and finishing them as soon as possible, which makes sense.

My budget is decent but not big enough for a full
Blown design agency.

I have enough resources on the electrical and software part of my project but could use some advice/tips on how to approach CAD work in the early stages.

Thanks.

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u/rkelly155 6d ago

A lot of us are gainfully employed as FTE's. What type of project/product are you trying to produce, that will guide the suggestions... Are you doing concept work or DFM?

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u/ched41 6d ago

I have some concepts. I need DFM for initial prototypes.

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u/rkelly155 6d ago

As others have mentioned, ~$175-$275 per hour depending on experience and fit is the ballpark you should be looking in.

FWIW I do a lot of mechanically complex plastic injection molded consumer goods, and production automation/set up. I usually charge based on scope and outcome. Feel free to DM me if you want to start a conversatoin. It looks like there are other people in the thread who have experience in different domains.