Mechanical Design Engineer

About the Role

We are hiring a practical, hands-on Mechanical Design Engineer to take ownership of flight and ground hardware from early concept through testing and iteration. This is a builder-focused role where you will design, fabricate, assemble, troubleshoot, and repair hardware that must perform in flight and survive demanding test environments.

You will collaborate closely with teams working on structures, propulsion, avionics, and related systems. The role is expected to involve time across the office, shop, and test site.

Responsibilities

• Develop and own mechanical hardware for flight vehicles and ground support equipment, including structures, tanks, mounts, mechanisms, and test fixtures.
• Carry parts from CAD models to drawings, fabrication, assembly, and testing while taking responsibility for the final result.
• Create designs with manufacturability, quick iteration, and real-world imperfections in mind.
• Assist with test programs, including troubleshooting and making repairs on site.
• Partner with propulsion and test engineers to solve mechanical issues discovered during testing.
• Perform hand calculations and finite element analysis to support design decisions.
• Help improve the company’s internal design, build, and test processes as the organization scales.

Requirements

• Proven experience designing and building mechanical hardware that has been tested in practical, real-world conditions.
• Strong CAD capability, ideally in SolidWorks, NX, or a comparable tool, with the ability to deliver fabrication-ready drawings.
• Good understanding of common manufacturing processes such as machining, welding, sheet metal work, composites, and rapid prototyping.
• Comfort working directly with hardware, tools, and test equipment.
• Ability to work independently, take ownership, and make progress even when information is incomplete.
• Willingness to spend time in the workshop and at a remote test location when required.
• Experience level is flexible; the company values demonstrated build experience more than total years worked.
• Applicants must be a U.S. Person under ITAR because the role may involve access to export-controlled information.

Perks and Benefits

• Competitive compensation.
• Meaningful equity in the company.
• Healthcare coverage.
• Office meals and snacks.
• Direct mentorship from founders and engineers with extensive flight experience.
• Strong opportunity for rapid career growth as the company expands.

Additional Information

The employer is open to candidates who do not match every listed qualification, and encourages interested applicants to reach out even if their background is not a perfect fit.