Mechanical Systems Specialist

Via Separations is a Boston-area startup dedicated to enabling process efficiency and intensification for the industrial sector. In 2024, Via delivered its first commercial facility and changed the narrative around market-driven energy technologies that drive value for industrial customers.  At the intersection of engineering, society, and impact, our team is passionate about making a difference and building the technology and organization to do it.  We are a fast-paced, interdisciplinary team backed by leading venture capital firms, and we are looking to add talented, mission-driven people to our cohort. 

We are passionate about transformative impact, optimistic about scientific progress, and unafraid of hard problems. We believe that our people are our unfair advantage, and drive our mission forward. We embrace the diversity of our team for creative solutions and believe the best ideas come from the intersection of disciplines and perspectives. We want you to join us!

Role Description

Via Separations is seeking a Mechanical Systems Specialist to join our Internal Systems group. As the Mechanical Systems Specialist, you will lead the assembly, fabrication, and build-out of internal test equipment, including test skids and pilot support systems consisting of pumps, controls, piping, valves, instruments, and wiring. You will be responsible for maintaining and troubleshooting existing test skids and assets. This is a hands-on technical leadership position requiring the ability to read and work from engineering drawings, source and order material, and operate hand and shop tools safely while working around hazardous liquids and gases. This role is based on-site in Watertown, MA, with primary work in our lab space, and may involve occasional travel to support field-deployed pilot units.

Responsibilities Include:

Build & Assembly

• Assemble and fabricate internal test equipment and skids, including pumps, piping, valves, instrumentation, controls, and electrical/wiring components.

• Read and interpret engineering drawings, P&IDs, and specifications to plan and execute builds accurately.

• Order and track material required for builds, coordinating with engineering and procurement to ensure correct specifications and timely delivery.

• Use hand tools and shop equipment — including cut-off saws and pipe threading machines — to fabricate and install piping and structural components.

• Lead build sequencing and task assignment for assigned projects, ensuring work meets quality and safety standards.

• Support shipping and receiving activities as needed, including building crates and packaging large items and equipment for outgoing freight.

• Coordinate with external trades, including electricians, plumbers, and HVAC contractors, to support the installation, maintenance, repair, and upgrade of laboratory equipment and lab facility systems in support of lab test equipment.

Maintenance & Troubleshooting

• Maintain, inspect, and repair existing test skids and internal systems to keep them in safe, reliable operating condition.

• Troubleshoot mechanical, piping, instrumentation, and electrical issues on test equipment, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.

• Coordinate with process and systems engineers on equipment modifications, upgrades, and recurring issues.

Safety & Leadership

• Work safely and confidently around hazardous liquids and gases, following all relevant safety protocols and PPE requirements.

• Serve as a technical lead for build and maintenance activities, mentoring other colleagues and helping enforce shop safety and quality standards.

• Identify and escalate safety concerns, near-misses, or process deviations promptly.

Required Qualifications:

• 10+ years of hands-on experience assembling, fabricating, and maintaining mechanical and piping systems, including pumps, valves, piping, instrumentation, and basic electrical wiring.

• Ability to read and work directly from engineering drawings, P&IDs, and specifications.

• Experience using hand tools and shop equipment, including cut-off saws and pipe threading machines.

• Comfortable and safety-conscious working around hazardous liquids and gases.

• Experience ordering or specifying material for fabrication or maintenance work.

• Strong troubleshooting skills across mechanical, piping, and basic electrical/controls systems.

• Knowledge of reverse osmosis (RO) and high-pressure system components, operation, and safe handling.

• Ability to lead tasks and provide direction to others on a build or maintenance job.

• Able to work independently with minimal oversight, prioritizing and managing tasks with sound judgment.

• The position requires the use of PPE (eye protection, respirator, etc.) and strict adherence to safety procedures when working with hazardous liquids and gases, pressurized systems, and powered shop equipment. 

• Candidates must be able to lift up to 50 pounds, undergo background and drug screening, and spend extended periods standing and performing hands-on mechanical assembly and fabrication tasks.

• U.S. work authorization is required for this role.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Prior experience in a lab, industrial test/fabrication, or field equipment deployment environment.

• Familiarity with piping codes and material standards (e.g., ASME B31.3) and basic instrumentation/controls wiring.

• Experience with chemical process equipment or corrosive service materials (e.g., stainless steel, specialty alloys.)

We Offer:

• Competitive compensation package, including equity options

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance

• Disability & Life Insurance

• 401(k)

• 12 weeks paid Family Leave

• Flexible PTO

• Paid time off for Company holidays

• Onsite gym