Senior Mechanical Engineer - UAV

Senior Mechanical Engineer

On behalf of a client, we are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the end-to-end design and development of groundbreaking autonomous aircraft. This is an opportunity to work on a platform that combines the speed and range of fixed-wing flight with superior vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) performance.

In this role, you will bridge the gap between high-level concept design and hands-on flight testing. You will have the autonomy to own your models across the full lifecycle and see your designs transition rapidly from a digital prototype to a flight-ready system.

Why This Role Matters

• Revolutionary Technology: Work on a unique, unfolding-wing aircraft designed to reach remote locations without runways.
• Full-Lifecycle Impact: Support everything from initial structural analysis and aero-mechanical modeling to full-scale static and dynamic testing.
• High-Stakes Innovation: Join an agile R&D environment where you can iterate quickly and solve complex integration challenges alongside cross-functional teams.
• Direct Influence: As a senior member of the engineering team, you will lead efforts in designing propulsion subsystems and flight structures that define the future of the platform.

Core Responsibilities

• Design and build next-generation aerostructures for highly automated platforms.
• Own aero loads, structural dynamics, and structural margins to ensure flightworthiness.
• Validate analytical models in MATLAB/Simulink and FEA tools to correlate predicted and actual flight performance.
• Run experimental validation, including wing-bend, vibration, and propulsion rig testing.
• Collaborate across domains like aerodynamics, propulsion, and controls to resolve critical integration issues.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 5+ years of experience in aeromechanical design, with a strong background in experimental aircraft.
• Proficiency in CAD (CATIA, SolidWorks) and FEA for complex structural analysis.
• Expertise in both metallic and composite manufacturing processes.
• U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Resident Status required.

What is Offered

• Competitive salary and stock options in a growing startup environment.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life insurance packages.
• 401(k) plan with up to 3% company matching.
• A culture built on trust, where decision-making is pushed to the individual level to empower your best work.

If you are ready to reshape the future of aerial technology and bring your technical brilliance to a high-growth team, we want to hear from you. This is your chance to move beyond the drawing board and see your engineering designs take flight.