Engineer II, Mechanical Designer / Drafter (R4920)
Design and develop complex mechanical structures and mechanisms for autonomous UAV launch and recovery systems. Requires BS in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering, 2+ years mechanism design experience, strong CAD (NX preferred), structural analysis, and GD&T skills.
About the job
Responsibilities
- Support the design of complex structures for autonomous aircraft launch and recovery systems
- Support the full design process: concept, CAD, tolerance analysis, material selection, and drawing release
- Perform structural and kinematic calculations and preliminary FEA
- Prototype, test, and iterate mechanism designs for functionality and reliability
- Collaborate with electrical, avionics, flight controls, manufacturing, and test teams
- Support pre-production builds, prototype integration, and ground/flight testing
- Participate in design reviews, architecture discussions, and technical decision-making forums
- Identify opportunities to improve design processes, configuration management, and team workflows
Requirements
- B.S. in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering
- 2+ years in mechanical or mechanism design for ground vehicles
- Strong CAD skills (NX preferred)
- Structural analysis utilizing hand calculations and finite element methods
- Understanding of GD&T and tolerance stack-ups for mechanical systems
- Materials selection inclusive of alloys, heat treatments, allowables, and finishes
- Ability to work independently in fast-paced, cross-functional teams
Nice-to-Haves
- Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems
- Kinematic analysis and optimization
- Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
- FEA analysis: Modal, non-linear and linear, buckling, fatigue
- Proficiency in FMEA, DOE, and root cause analysis
- Hands-on machine shop or mechanic experience
- MIL-STD-810, structural, or actuated mechanism testing experience
- Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary range: $88,000 - $130,000
Skills
Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, CAD, Nx, Structural Analysis, FEA, GD&T, Tolerance Analysis, Materials Selection, Kinematic Analysis
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