5+ years of hands-on experience in structural mechanical systems design and build
Proficient in 3D CAD tools like SolidWorks, CATIA, or NX
Skilled in using FEA and simulation tools for structural analysis
Practical knowledge of fabrication processes including welding and machining
Understanding of materials in structural contexts, focusing on strength and corrosion resistance
Experience designing for extreme environmental conditions
Ability to think in terms of systems integration for structures with other vehicle components
Responsibilities
Design and develop vehicle body architecture for extreme conditions
Own structural performance from concept to prototype using FEA
Engineer frame systems optimized for stiffness-to-weight ratio
Drive rapid prototyping by converting CAD designs into physical builds
Design durable joints and interfaces for harsh environments
Collaborate with other engineering teams to develop integrated vehicle architectures
Benefits
Market standard benefits (health, dental, vision, and 401k)
Focus on organizational culture and mission over benefit package
Full Job Description
Design and develop the vehicle body and structural architecture to perform across extreme multi-environment conditions-from high-impact off-road shock loads to full water submersion and long-term vibration fatigue
Own structural performance from concept through prototype, using FEA and simulation-driven design to rapidly iterate on geometries, reduce material usage, and accelerate development cycles
Engineer frame systems that achieve an optimized stiffness-to-weight ratio through thoughtful material selection across steel alloys, aluminum extrusions, and composite structures.
Drive rapid prototyping efforts by translating CAD designs into physical builds using CNC machining, welding, sheet metal fabrication, and additive manufacturing
Design robust joints and interfaces that account for thermal expansion, corrosion between dissimilar metals, and long-term serviceability in harsh environments
Collaborate closely with robotics, suspension, and systems engineering to co-develop structural hardpoints, mounting interfaces, and routing pathways as part of a fully integrated vehicle architecture
What Kind of Person We Are Looking For:
5+ years of hands-on experience designing and building structural mechanical systems
Strong proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, or similar), with a disciplined approach to assemblies, tolerancing, and managing complex multi-part systems
Experience using FEA and simulation tools (ANSYS, ADAMS, or similar) to inform design decisions, including structural, fatigue, and modal analysis
Practical experience with fabrication processes such as welding, machining, and sheet metal-comfortable working between CAD and the shop floor
Solid understanding of materials and their trade-offs in structural applications, including strength, fatigue, corrosion resistance, and weight
Experience designing for harsh environments, including water exposure, corrosion, and sealing of structural systems
Ability to think in systems-designing structures that integrate cleanly with actuators, wiring, fluid systems, and sensors from the outset
Benefits
We provide market standard benefits (health, vision, dental, 401k, etc.), equity. Join us for the culture and the mission, not for the benefits.
Salary
The annual compensation is expected to be between $150,000 - $250,000. Exact compensation may vary based on skills, experience, and location.
