Lead Mechanical/Structures Engineer - Aerospace & UAS

Position Overview Years of Experience: 6+ Travel Requirement: Domestic Compensation: $135,000 - $155,000 USD annually Capabilities: Unmanned Systems Job Description Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is a leading defense technology company focused on unmanned systems, satellite communications, cyber security/warfare, microwave electronics, missile defense, training, and combat systems. Our customers include the U.S. federal government, foreign governments, commercial enterprises, and state and local government agencies. At Kratos, we prioritize affordability as a cornerstone of our technology and use proven, cutting‑edge methodologies to minimize costs, streamline schedules, and mitigate risks. Kratos Unmanned Aerial Systems (KUAS) is a division of Kratos Defense renowned for developing, delivering, integrating, and supporting high‑performance, cost‑effective, jet‑powered Unmanned Aerial Systems (Targets and Tactical). As a mid‑tier defense contractor, we have demonstrated agility and innovation in providing aircraft to the U.S. military and global allies and partners. Our track record of delivering top‑notch jet‑powered subscale targets has established us as a go‑to defense contractor capable of delivering capabilities at an affordable price. At KUAS, we prioritize innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our team collaborates to cultivate a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostering creativity and promoting professional development while honoring personal and family lives. Join our team and help shape the future of unmanned technology within the defense industry today! General Job Summary Works on Mechanical/Structures design and development projects and provides solutions to difficult engineering problems. Responsibilities Responsible for designing components manufactured from composite and metallic materials. Develops mechanical fluid systems to route liquids and gases. Integrates hardware into complex, tightly packaged mechanical assemblies. Prepares formal, controlled engineering documentation (i.e. drawings, specifications, parts lists and interface control documents). Proficient in Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) to design, develop and document models and drawings to manufacture aerospace hardware. Dassault Products Preferred (Catia, 3DX). Applies Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), perform tolerance studies and determines drawing requirements that provide affordable and practical designs. Prepares and presents design review material in support of technical interchange meetings with suppliers and external/internal customers. Ensures that assigned scope meets project objectives per schedule and cost targets. Knowledgeable in systems engineering principles and able to prepares designs in accordance with customer requirements and derived engineering requirements. Supports system testing, trouble shooting, and problem resolution. Supports flight testing, data reduction, analysis, and reporting. Knowledgeable in PLM Systems and Configuration Control. Basic knowledge in structural mechanics and analysis. Prepares test plans, test procedures and reports. Knowledge of manufacturing methods for composite materials and machined metallic hardware is highly desired. Complies with established Quality Management System procedures. Other duties may be assigned. Acts as the Lead Mechanical/Structures Engineer per procedure for very complex projects as assigned by Manager that affect multiple systems, involve several suppliers/teaming partners, and require frequent customer interface. Acts as Test Director when necessary. Prepares and presents design review material in support of technical interchange meetings with suppliers and external/internal customers. Plans projects and executes to the plan with attention to detail. Provides direction and oversight, both technically and programmatically, to Mechanical/Structures Engineers. Provides interface to other engineering design and development disciplines, ensuring that Mechanical/Structures requirements are addressed and satisfied during overall system integration. Manages the engineering team’s effort and time within the budget and schedule provided for the task. Reports project status periodically (actual budget/schedule vs. proposed budget/schedule). Reports progress in meeting customer requirements periodically. Mentors Level I-III Mechanical/Structures Engineers. Supervisory Responsibility None Compensation $135,000 - $155,000 USD Annually Experience and Skills Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Required: Ability to maintain sensitive and confidential information as required by government standards. Ability to interact effectively with peers and supervisors. Ability to interact appropriately with the public when necessary. Ability to adhere to workplace rules. Ability to travel as necessary to perform job duties. Ability to effectively communicate professionally in writing or verbally with all levels of personnel. Demonstrated passion for customer satisfaction. Preferred: N/A Education and Experience Required: 11+ years related experience in related engineering discipline. Preferred: 6+ years lead engineer experience in the aerospace industry. Work Environment / Physical Requirements Office and/or manufacturing environment. Ability to stand and sit for long periods of time. Ability to perform repetitive motion (keyboarding, 10‑key, phones). Frequent outside contact with customers and suppliers. May work extended hours or weekends and travel occasionally. May be required to lift up to 50 pounds in accordance with KUAS General Safety Training guidelines. Benefits Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance 401(k) Savings Plan Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP) Paid Time-Off (PTO) Holidays Education Reimbursement Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr