Global Role · Austin, TX / Perth, Australia / Taiwan / China / Hong Kong
Full-Time · Engineering Leadership & Product Development
About Us
Ristretto is a fast-growing premium electric mobility company redefining the riding experience through cutting-edge design, engineering precision, and exceptional customer support. Based in Austin, TX, we build high-performance electric two-wheelers—from next-generation e-bikes to full electric motos—that push boundaries in power, range, and design.
As we scale our operations globally and prepare for a new wave of product launches, we are seeking a Lead Project Engineer
to guide the development of our first electric moto platform, the
Ristretto Republica
, while contributing to future products across our E-Moto division. This role blends high-level engineering leadership with hands-on mechanical design, testing, and global execution.
Position Overview
The Lead Project Engineer
will own the full engineering lifecycle of the Republica E-Moto program—from concept, CAD, and prototyping through testing, validation, and production. This is a
global leadership role
responsible for coordinating engineering efforts across the U.S., APAC, and international supplier networks.
You will be deeply involved in mechanical design, CAD work (SolidWorks, Fusion 360), system integration, component development, and engineering decision-making. Your work will directly shape the performance, durability, and rider experience of Ristretto's flagship electric moto.
This position is globally coordinated and may be fully remote, though requires regular travel across APAC and North America.
What You'll LeadEngineering Leadership & Product Ownership
* Lead engineering execution for Ristretto's Republica E-Moto platform
* Own the product's technical roadmap, design direction, and engineering decisions
* Manage design updates, component validation, and production readiness milestones
* Approve prototypes, samples, test plans, and engineering revisions
* Mentor and collaborate with design, R&D, and manufacturing teams
CAD, Mechanical Design & System Integration
* Design mechanical components, chassis structures, enclosures, and assemblies
* Create and refine 3D CAD models and technical drawings in
SolidWorks
and
Fusion 360
* Ensure manufacturability (DFM/DFA), structural integrity, and aesthetic quality
* Develop frame geometry, suspension integration, battery architecture, and drivetrain components
* Support rapid prototyping, fixture design, and iteration cycles
Testing, Validation & Quality Engineering
* Plan and execute performance, durability, and safety tests
* Analyze test data to identify engineering improvements
* Lead validation cycles with suppliers and factories across APAC
* Ensure components meet quality benchmarks from prototype through production
Technical Support, Service Engineering & Documentation
* Provide advanced diagnostics and warranty technical support
* Develop and refine SOPs, service manuals, assembly guides, and internal workflows
* Contribute engineering logic and data to AI-powered customer support systems
Global Coordination & Travel
This role requires hands-on collaboration with manufacturing partners around the world. You must be willing and able to travel to:
* Austin, TX (HQ)
* Australia
* Taiwan
* China
* Hong Kong
Travel will include prototyping cycles, supplier audits, assembly line validation, and engineering reviews.
Collaboration & Product Development
* Work cross-functionally with electrical engineers, industrial designers, and manufacturing partners
* Participate in engineering/design reviews and contribute to materials, tolerances, and assembly methods
* Provide clear documentation and communication to overseas suppliers
* Support new product development for upcoming Ristretto vehicles
QualificationsRequired
* 3+ years in mechanical engineering, product development, or vehicle engineering
* Strong proficiency in
SolidWorks
(primary) and
Fusion 360
* Experience designing for CNC machining, casting, welding, and injection molding
* Understanding of two-wheel vehicle systems (frame, suspension, drivetrain, structural components)
* Experience taking hardware products from prototype → validation → production
* Strong communication skills and ability to work independently in a global environment
Preferred
* Background in e-bikes, electric motorcycles, motorsports, or power sports
* Experience collaborating with overseas manufacturers (China, Taiwan, APAC)
* Testing, validation, or quality engineering experience
* Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, design-driven hardware startup
Schedule & Working Hours
* Global / remote-friendly position
* Must be available for meetings across CST (Austin)
,
HKT (Hong Kong)
, and
(Australia)
* Occasional international travel for prototyping, testing, and supplier visits
Compensation & PerksSalary:
$60,000 – $80,000 USD (DOE)
Benefits & Perks
* Work on cutting-edge electric mobility products
* International travel & factory collaboration
* Hands-on product testing (ride and evaluate prototypes)
* Work directly with the CEO, COO, and Engineering Manager
* Discounts on bikes, gear, and Ristretto products
* Career growth into
Senior Engineering
,
Vehicle Architecture
, or
R&D Leadership
roles
Why Join Ristretto?
* Lead engineering for our flagship
Republica E-Moto
* Play a central role in shaping the future of Ristretto's electric motorcycle lineup
* Influence product decisions at every level of the company
* Be part of a fast-growing, design-driven mobility brand
* Build vehicles that riders around the world will rely on and love