Mechanical Design Engineer (Structures)

Mechanical Design Engineer

We are a stealth-mode Aerospace & Defense startup headquartered in Gardena, CA. Our founding team hails from SpaceX, Anduril, and Lockheed Martin, and we are backed by Joint Staff-level military leadership and several Silicon Valley firms. With a world-class business development & leadership team already in place, we are well positioned to capitalize on already overwhelming demand.

About the Role

We are seeking a skilled mechanical design engineer with a strong background in designing ground structures. You will design, prototype, analyze, test, and develop manufacturing processes for complex ground systems integral to the launch of our rocket/missile systems. This role will design high production parts for complex aerospace systems. You will own system architecture, components, subassemblies for our products from conception through to integrated testing and manufacture and be responsible for performance by executing analysis and defining requirements for environmental testing.

Responsibilities

• Design structures and ground systems integral to the launch and control of flight vehicles
• Take ownership of the design through the manufacturing process including basic structural analysis, process development, and defining validation requirements
• Co-develop product requirements through trade studies to drive optimization at the system level
• Create intricate and detailed models and engineering drawings in SOLIDWORKS
• Conduct rigorous testing and iteration cycles to ensure reliability and robust performance across all environments and operational scenarios
• Continuously develop manufacturing processes to achieve high-rate, high-yield, and dependable production.
• Establish and manage an effective product lifecycle, from supply chain sourcing through final assembly and integration, balancing cost efficiency, production complexity, and quality standards; closely coordinate with partner teams to develop and operate an optimized in-house manufacturing line.

Preferred Skills and Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in mechanical engineering or a related technical discipline
• 3+ years of professional experience in mechanical design and analysis
• 2+ years of hands-on project experience developing manufacturing processes
• Proficient in 3D CAD (SOLIDWORKS preferred)
• Familiarity with sheet metal design, welded structures, and vehicle systems
• Ability to manage large assembly models and drawings
• Solid understanding and application of GD&T, mechanical engineering fundamentals, structural analysis, and failure modes of complex mechanical systems
• Prior ownership of a complex component or assembly from initial design through medium-to-high-volume production ramp
• Familiarity with manufacturing processes and how to design for manufacturability
• Exposure to a variety of production machinery, industrial sensors, and equipment (motion systems, dispense systems, temperature controllers, laser distance sensors, injection molders, die casters, etc.)
• Self-motivated with strong organizational, written, and oral communication skills

Additional Requirements

• Must be available to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.