We're looking for a Mechanical Engineer V/VI for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) which is a senior-level role responsible for leading the design, development, and implementation of advanced mechanical systems for UAVs. This position involves strategic oversight, innovative problem-solving, and mentorship of junior engineers. Engineers in this role will contribute to cutting-edge advancements in UAS technologies, driving innovation in areas such as autonomous systems, additive manufacturing, and aerospace materials.
Key Responsibilities:- Strategic Design Leadership: Lead the design of complex mechanical systems for UAVs, including advanced airframes, propulsion systems, and payload integration.
- Advanced Prototyping and Testing: Oversee the development and testing of UAV prototypes, ensuring compliance with performance and reliability goals.
- Comprehensive Structural Analysis: Conduct and review in-depth stress, strain, and fatigue analysis for UAV mechanical systems operating under extreme conditions.
- Thermal Management Expertise: Develop and implement innovative thermal systems for high-performance UAVs.
- Cross-Functional Integration: Lead collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to integrate mechanical systems with avionics, sensors, and software controls.
- Material Innovation: Drive research and development of advanced materials for UAV applications, focusing on composites and lightweight alloys.
- Failure Analysis and Solutions: Lead root cause analysis of mechanical failures and propose long-term, impactful solutions.
- Regulatory Compliance Leadership: Ensure all designs meet and exceed UAS regulations and industry certifications.
- Research and Development: Spearhead R&D initiatives to advance UAS technologies, including autonomous navigation and advanced manufacturing techniques.
- Mentorship and Leadership: Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior and mid-level engineers, fostering professional growth within the team.
- Documentation and Reporting: Author comprehensive technical documentation, including design reviews, test reports, and compliance certifications.
Qualifications:- Education: Bachelor's, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering degree or equivalent experience.
- Experience: 10+ years of experience in engineering roles.
Skills:- Advanced proficiency in CAD and mechanical design software (e.g., SolidWorks)
- Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and drafting
- Experience with design for manufacturability (DFMA) and tooling design
- Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and other advanced simulation tools
- Experience in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, structural mechanics, and aerodynamics
- Strong analytical, problem-solving skills, and ability to mentor
- Proven ability to drive innovation and manage complex engineering projects
Preferred Qualifications:- Above experience including 5 years dedicated to UAV development
- Advanced proficiency in CAD primarily for aerospace and UAS applications
- Experience with advanced simulation tools (e.g. FEA, CFD)
- Expertise in structural mechanics, aerodynamics, thermodynamics
- In depth knowledge of UAV manufacturing processes, including 3D printing and advanced composite materials.
- Familiarity with advanced UAV-specific regulations and broader aerospace certification processes (e.g., DO-160, AS9100).
Pay Range by Level for San Luis Obispo, CA:
Level V - $182k - $212k
Level VI - $212k - $238k
Pay range for this role
$182,000-$238,000 USD
What's in it for you:Benefits:
- Competitive total compensation package
- Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
- 401k with company-match
- 4 weeks of paid time off each year
- 12 annual company holidays
