Lead Mechanical Engineer - Space Technologies

Worker Type Regular Job Description AV provides a full suite of space‑qualified hardware trusted to fly in extreme environments across GEO, MEO, LEO and Cislunar orbits. With hundreds of systems flying in space, our customers turn to AV when a mission can’t fail. Our team is expanding to deliver the big things that have never been done before. Join the transformation and help us make this impact now. Responsibilities We are seeking a senior level mechanical engineer to provide engineering design and analysis support to diverse R&D programs and small‑volume production contracts. The selected candidate will lead the structural and thermal analysis of mechanical systems for space and airborne hardware, work within a multi-disciplined project team, be responsible for mechanical design and analysis activity, and support integration and formal acceptance‑test activities. Projects vary from packaging high‑reliability electronics subsystems to opto‑mechanical mechanism design such as gimbal and steering mirror systems. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering. 12 years’ mechanical engineering experience in one or more of the following areas: Structural and thermal analysis including analytical calculations and FEA (stress analysis, modal analysis, thermal conduction analysis, bolt loads, etc.). Design using CAD software, ideally with SolidWorks. Tolerance analysis and GD&T practices. Space hardware design, analysis, integration, and test. Strong technical writing skills for engineering documentation (analysis reports, specifications, requirements documents, etc.). Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. Desired Qualifications 15+ years’ experience in mechanical engineering of space systems. Strong verbal communication skills for customer interaction at design reviews and supplier interaction. Ability to quickly adapt to various projects and manage multiple projects simultaneously while managing time and priorities. Ability to work independently or as part of a development team. Experience and willingness to be hands‑on during hardware assembly, integration, and test. Current U.S. security clearance. Clearance Level No Clearance Salary Range $111,500 - $158,025 Benefits AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental, vision, a 401(k) with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule, and a paid holiday shutdown. ITAR Requirement This position requires access to information that is subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). Applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under ITAR/EAR, or be approved for an export license by the governing agency. A U.S. person is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or a protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. Some positions require current U.S. citizenship due to contract requirements. Equal Employment Opportunity We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. AeroVironment, Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified applicants. Qualified applicants will receive fair and impartial consideration without regard to race, sex, color, religion, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic data, sexual orientation, gender identity or other legally protected status. #J-18808-Ljbffr AeroVironment