Single-Serve Food Container Opener Design

We're looking for an experienced mechanical designer to develop the first working prototype of a mechanism that opens sealed single-serve food containers quickly, reliably, and without damaging the container or its contents.

Scope of work:

Develop initial concept(s) based on a functional brief (provided after NDA)
Iterate and refine the design through several review cycles
Produce detailed manufacturing-ready drawings (dimensions, tolerances, materials, fasteners)
Deliver STL files suitable for 3D-printing a functional prototype
Recommend prototyping materials/methods appropriate for validating mechanism performance (not just form)

Requirements:

The mechanism must operate smoothly and consistently across repeated cycles
Design must prioritize durability, ease of use, and manufacturability
Solution should be practical to produce at scale, not just as a one-off print

To apply, please share:

Relevant experience with similar mechanical or consumer-product mechanisms (opening, dispensing, or actuation mechanisms preferred)
A brief description of your design process, from concept to manufacturing-ready output
Examples of past CAD/prototype work (portfolio or case studies)
Your typical turnaround for a project of this scope

Note: This project involves proprietary mechanical IP. Selected candidates will be asked to sign an NDA and IP assignment agreement before receiving detailed specifications or design files.