Mechanical Engineer

Valinor is a new type of defense and government tech company focused on solving the problems others don't. Our unique model of centralized go-to-market and decentralized engineering allows us to move with unparalleled efficiency to identify unmet needs, build right-sized solutions, and get products where they matter most - in the hands of users. Unlike others in the space, who focus on the flashy problems, Valinor exists to solve the quiet, unaddressed problems-the small but significant ones that lead to cracks in the country's strength, stability, and security.

Backed by General Catalyst, Founders Fund, and Red Cell Partners, Valinor was founded in 2024 and has established strategic partnerships with Palantir, Anduril, and Helsing. We are building the dream team, and we want you on it.

About the Role

Valinor Dispatch is developing ruggedized, field-deployable UxS charging infrastructure for defense applications and is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support structural, thermal, and system-level design of next-generation platforms for deployment in austere environments.

What You'll Do

• Support the design, prototyping, and iteration of mechanical systems for autonomous charging infrastructure (e.g., docking stations), including enclosures, mounts, structural frames, and environmental protection systems, under the guidance of senior engineers.

• Assist with structural, thermal, and dynamic analyses to help ensure reliability under military environmental conditions (MIL-STD-810, vibration, shock, EMI/EMC considerations).

• Contribute to the development of mechanisms for automated docking, retention, alignment, and protection of payloads or vehicles.

• Help evaluate and select materials and processes suitable for ruggedization, manufacturability, and weight/cost constraints.

• Work closely with electrical and software teams to support integration of sensors, electronics, and electromechanical components.

• Create and maintain CAD models, drawings, BOMs, and manufacturing documentation.

• Support prototype fabrication, testing, and refinement in laboratory and field environments, including hands-on build and test tasks.

What We're Looking For

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or closely related field.

• 1+ years of experience (including internships, co-ops, or strong project/coursework) in mechanical design, ideally for rugged, robotics, or mission-critical systems.

• Proficiency with at least one CAD tool (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or similar); exposure to mechanical analysis tools (FEA, CFD) is a plus.

• Familiarity with, or strong interest in, designing for environmental and operational robustness - dust, water, salt, extreme temperatures, shock/vibration, and electromagnetic environments.

• Exposure to AS9100/TDP/MIL-STD related items including MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461, or other military/DoD specifications, with willingness to learn (direct experience is a plus, not required).

• Working knowledge of common manufacturing processes (machining, sheet metal, additive manufacturing, assembly), through coursework, projects, or work experience.

• Hands-on aptitude and eagerness to learn rugged design practices, with mentorship provided.

What Valinor Offers

• Competitive salary, equity packages, and benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance - fully covered for employees, 401(k), among others.

• Unlimited PTO and two-week company holiday at the end of every calendar year.

• We are a pro-mental health and pro-family company - we actually encourage employees to spend time with themselves and their families. Valinor also provides fertility benefits to those just beginning that journey.

• Fun work environment - we like to laugh and take care of each other, but we also deeply respect the mission in front of us.

This role requires the candidate be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. Active clearance preferred, but not required.

Valinor is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Valinor team is made up of incredibly talented and unique individuals, who together are disrupting industry norms by creating new paths towards the future of defense and government technology. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you are someone passionate about working on problems that have a real-world impact, we'd love to hear from you!