Mechanical Engineer I, Missouri Institute of Defense and Energy

Hiring Department The Missouri Institute of Defense and Energy (MIDE) in the Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSIN) at the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) is a fast‑growing research institute founded to solve real‑world problems by synthesizing physics and engineering principles with a pragmatic, results‑driven, and collaborative philosophy. Whether it’s restoring health and wellness in the urban food‑desert or developing state‑of‑the‑art anti‑drone technologies to protect our cities or troops, MIDE is on it. The team is growing and we have an outstanding opportunity for a Mechanical Engineer‑I. You would work with us in solving wicked challenges in defense, energy, and health by transitioning fundamental solutions that require a team of highly specialized, knowledgeable, and passionate individuals who seek answers to hard questions in a collaborative environment with world‑class research organizations from coast to coast. Job Description MIDE is seeking a Mechanical Engineer‑I who has some experience in Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS), UAS design and fabrication, and UAS policies and regulations. Additional experience with fixed wing UAS, payload integration, wiring, and field operations is preferred. Ideal Team Member Attributes a passion for solving high‑impact, real‑world problems the ability to operate in agile and dynamic working environments as a core team player and independent individual a willingness to mentor and assist other staff or students an ability to manage small teams, work with project sponsors, and coordinate efforts between groups familiarity with UAS, Ardupilot/PX4 flight stacks, UAS design, and UAS flight testing familiarity with UAS regulations (Part 107, new Part 108 proposed rules, COAs, etc.) a curiosity, openness, and willingness to learn new skills, methods, systems, and technologies effective verbal and written communication skills to inform and guide team members excellent organizational skills to prioritize and execute both long‑term and short parallel assignments Duties / Responsibilities Act as one of the UAS pilots and UAS pilot trainers for fixed‑wing and multirotor UAS Mentor a limited number of graduate and undergraduate students in UAS design, fabrication, and testing research to support government customers Design, fabricate, and test UAS and robotics‑related systems in support of government contracts Prepare documentation including but not limited to technical reports and briefings as required Work and communicate well within one or more teams Manage, develop, and coordinate UAS exemption, COAs, etc., with the FAA in support of Group 2 and 3 UAS operations Interface with multiple engineering and non‑engineering cross‑functional team members NOTE: This position is 100 % grant‑funded and contingent on continued funding. Minimum Qualifications A Bachelor's degree from which comparable knowledge and skills can be acquired is necessary Ability to acquire and maintain a United States security clearance UAS Part 107 remote pilot certification Preferred Qualifications A Master’s degree in mechanical, aerospace, electrical engineering, or related field Leading or participating on student design team(s) at the university level pertinent to mechanical/aerospace engineering FAA Private Pilot license Experience in Department of Defense UAS/aviation research and development contracts Anticipated Hiring Range The anticipated hiring range for this position has been established as $68,000 – $80,000 annually. Salary is determined by a variety of factors, including the individual’s particular combination of education, skills, and experience, as well as organizational requirements. Application Deadline Job posting will remain open until filled. Benefit Eligibility This position is eligible for University benefits. As part of your total compensation, the University offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, retirement, paid time off, short‑ and long‑term disability, paid parental leave, paid caregiver leave, and educational fee discounts for all four UM System campuses. For additional information on University benefits, please visit the Faculty & Staff Benefits website at Equal Employment Opportunity The University of Missouri is an Equal Opportunity Employer. To request ADA accommodations, please call the Office of Equity & Title IX at View phone number on click.appcast.io. Title and Grade Grade: GGS 10 University Title: ENGINEER I #J-18808-Ljbffr The Chronicle Of Higher Education, Inc.