Mechanical Engineer 5/6

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 Fort Walton Beach, FL:

Level V - $160k - $191k
Level VI - $191k - $207k