Research Development Mechanical Engineer

Job Description

MUST BE ELIGIBLE FOR TOP SECURITY CLEARANCE

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer to join our Research & Development team and help drive the creation of next-generation unmanned and autonomous systems. This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, customer-focused environment where rapid prototyping, iterative development, and custom solutioning are critical to success. You will work directly with customers, internal engineering teams, and external partners to understand mission requirements, develop innovative concepts, and translate ideas into field-ready products. From early-stage research through deployment and customer testing, you will play a key role in delivering solutions that solve complex real-world challenges.

Responsibilities

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• Lead the development of innovative product concepts from customer requirements through research, design, prototyping, testing, and production transition.
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• Collaborate directly with customers to understand operational needs, gather feedback, and develop tailored engineering solutions.
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• Design and develop architectures, mechanisms, accessories, and subsystems for multiple UxS and CUxS platforms.
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• Drive rapid iteration cycles through simulation, prototype development, testing, and continuous design refinement.
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• Partner closely with multidisciplinary teams including software, electrical, systems, manufacturing, program management, suppliers, and customers to deliver integrated solutions.
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• Support customer demonstrations, design reviews, field evaluations, and product testing activities.
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• Investigate design challenges, troubleshoot failure modes, determine root causes, and implement effective corrective actions.
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• Apply strong analytical and problem-solving skills to address complex technical challenges in dynamic operating environments.
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• Contribute to product roadmaps, technology evaluations, and R&D initiatives that advance platform capabilities.
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• Provide engineering support to production, integration, and fielded systems as needed.
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• Generate and maintain technical documentation including design packages, drawings, assembly instructions, test plans, and reports.
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Qualifications

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• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent practical experience.
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• 3–5 years of experience designing mechanical systems, mechanisms, or ruggedized products, preferably in robotics, autonomous systems, defense, aerospace, or related industries.
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• Experience working in research and development, prototype development, rapid iteration, or new product introduction environments.
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• Demonstrated ability to take products from concept through design, prototyping, testing, and deployment.
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• Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks.
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• Hands-on experience with system integration, testing, and prototype validation.
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• Strong understanding of design principles for harsh and demanding operating environments.
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• Excellent critical thinking, troubleshooting, and problem-solving abilities.
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• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to work directly with customers, suppliers, and cross-functional teams.
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• Experience gathering customer requirements and translating them into practical engineering solutions is highly desirable.
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• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
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• RC vehicle, robotics, autonomous systems, or unmanned systems experience is a plus.
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Additional Information

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• This role requires a proactive, entrepreneurial mindset and the ability to contribute immediately within a growing, fast-moving startup environment.
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• Occasional travel within the United States may be required to support customer engagements, field testing, product demonstrations, and design reviews.
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• Successful candidates will be energized by working closely with customers, rapidly iterating on solutions, and helping shape the future direction of innovative autonomous technologies
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