Manufacturing / Mechanical Engineering

The Mechanical Engineer III applies engineering techniques to design, install, modify, analyze, repair and test tools, engines, machines and other mechanically functioning equipment. This individual will be a part of a design team focused on development of the next generation UAV systems and their subsystems. This includes all levels and facets of design from conceptual clear through the detailed design and will include building and testing of these systems.
Designs structural components, electro-mechanical design, payload mechanical design, ground equipment mechanical design, launching systems, flight control actuators integration, thermal analysis, prototype hardware development, tooling and fixtures design

• Reads and interprets blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, and computer-generated reports. Assists project managers with the planning and scheduling of engineering work
• Develop manufacturing drawings and bills of materials for components and assemblies using industry drafting standards
• Researches and analyzes customer design proposals, specifications, manuals, and other data to evaluate the feasibility, cost, and maintenance requirements of designs or applications
• Support design reviews, assist project managers with the planning and scheduling of engineering work, and support manufacturing & suppliers with the production of components & assemblies
• Resolves a wide range of issues in creative ways while applying company policies and procedures. Completes assigned tasks within project schedule and budget
• Works on problems of diverse scope where analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factors. Makes decisions that have some impact on project costs and schedule. 5 - 8 years of experience designing complex mechanical systems with demonstrated transition to hardware
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering is required or equivalent combination of education, training and experience.
• Experience in designing the following types of parts: machined parts, simple composite parts, plastic injection molded parts, sheet metal parts, wire assemblies, mechanical assemblies
• Hands-on building/prototyping experience as it pertains to lightweight miniature robotic systems or similar
• Experience designing electro-mechanical systems with thermodynamic constraints
• Demonstrated competence in mechanical engineering process and design/analysis tools
• Proven experience in creating engineering drawings in compliance with ASME Y14.100 Engineering Drawing Practices, Y14.5 Dimensioning and Tolerancing, and other applicable ASME Y14 series standards Proficient at Solidworks as well as office software such as MS Office

Demonstrates ability to work independently with little supervision. Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties

• Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company
• Ability to work in a manufacturing environment (Occasional)
• talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Constant)

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.
This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). S. citizen, U.S. lawful permanent resident (green card holder), or protected individual such as a refugee or asylee. Citizenship due to contract requirements._
Benefits : AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. We also encourage you to review our company website at to learn more about us.
We don’t just build defense technology—we redefine what’s possible. AV delivers breakthrough capabilities across air, land, sea, space, and cyber. From AI-powered drones and loitering munitions to integrated autonomy and space resilience, our technologies shape the future of warfare and protect those who serve.
Our heritage includes seven platforms in the Smithsonian—but we’re not building history, we’re building what’s next.
If you're ready to build technology that matters—with speed, scale, and purpose—there’s no better place to do it than AV.
_We are proud to be an EEO/AA Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans. 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._
Must be willing to work on government contracts and have the ability to obtain a security clearance.