Staff Engineer, Mechanical Design - Launch and Recovery Systems (R4573)

What you'll do

• Design and develop mechanical systems for Ground Support Equipment (GSE), including power units, transport structures, launch & recovery systems, and maintenance tools.
• Create detailed CAD models, drawings, and specifications for manufacturing and assembly.
• Conduct structural, thermal, and fatigue analysis to ensure durability and reliability of GSE in field environments.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate GSE with aircraft systems and mission operations.
• Perform trade studies and system optimization to enhance portability, ruggedness, and maintainability of support systems.
• Oversee prototyping, testing, and validation of GSE designs to meet military and aviation standards.
• Develop technical documentation, test procedures, and support manuals for field operations.
• Work with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure cost-effective production and sustainment of GSE.
• Support flight test campaigns by providing engineering support for ground systems and test operations.

Required qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in mechanical design for aerospace, ground support equipment, or heavy industrial systems.
• Expertise in CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, or similar) for 3D modeling, drawing creation, and system layout.
• Strong background in structural analysis, material selection, and manufacturing processes for ruggedized systems.
• Experience designing deployable, transportable, and field-ready aerospace support equipment.
• Knowledge of MIL-STD design requirements for aerospace ground support systems.
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA), thermal analysis, and fatigue/lifecycle testing.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, agile development environment with evolving priorities.
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred qualifications

• Experience designing UAS or military aircraft ground support equipment.
• Knowledge of power distribution, hydraulics, and environmental control systems for aerospace applications.
• Experience with DoD acquisition, sustainment, and field deployment strategies.
• Prior experience supporting military aircraft maintenance and sustainment operations.
• Active Secret or Top Secret clearance (or ability to obtain one).