Mechanical Design Engineer, Structures

What the role needs

• Own the mechanical design and development of subsystem-level hardware, from early CAD concepts to functional prototypes to production.
• Create and maintain 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and associated documentation to support fabrication, assembly, inspection, and testing.
• Support hands-on testing, from vehicle level qualification and design validation to subscale and coupon based testing leading to design iteration.
• Drive manufacturability, part selection, and tolerance stack-up decisions (GD&T) for scalable production.
• Apply mechanical fundamentals (structural, thermal, materials) and 1st order sizing to inform robust, lightweight designs.
• Design fixtures and tooling to manufacture, assembly, inspect, qualify, and test aerospace assemblies
• Author test plans, technical documentation, and engineering milestones
• Ability to support critical development and test milestones, including occasional extended hours and weekends as needed
• 1+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on designing and prototyping mechanical systems (can be in a professional, hobby or academic setting)
• Strong skills in 3D modeling with CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, etc.) including GD&T per ASME Y14.5
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience owning hands-on, end-to-end hardware development efforts (e.g., FSAE, DBF, Rocket Team, or similar projects).

From the employer

About Mach Industries Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. The Role Mach Industries is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our team in designing, prototyping, and iterating on mechanical and electromechanical systems that support next-generation defense platforms. In this hands-on role, you’ll design, analyze, and test parts and systems while optimizing for manufacturing, assembly, mass, cost and cross discipline requirements. You will work alongside experienced engineers and collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to develop structural components and assemblies that meet demanding requirements for strength, stiffness, manufacturing, and performance. From developing CAD models to performing 1st order calculations to building prototypes and evaluating test results, you will contribute throughout the entire hardware development cycle. This is a hands-on engineering role for someone who enjoys solving challenging mechanical problems, working with real hardware, and rapidly iterating on designs. Key Responsibilities Own the mechanical design and development of subsystem-level hardware, from early CAD concepts to functional prototypes to production. Create and maintain 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, and associated documentation to support fabrication, assembly, inspection, and testing. Support hands-on testing, from vehicle level qualification and design validation to subscale and coupon based testing leading to design iteration. Drive manufacturability, part selection, and tolerance stack-up decisions (GD&T) for scalable production. Apply mechanical fundamentals (structural, thermal, materials) and 1st order sizing to inform robust, lightweight designs. Design fixtures and tooling to manufacture, assembly, inspect, qualify, and test aerospace assemblies Author test plans, technical documentation, and engineering milestones Ability to support critical development and test milestones, including occasional extended hours and weekends as needed Required Qualifications 1+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on designing and prototyping mechanical systems (can be in a professional, hobby or academic setting) Strong skills in 3D modeling with CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, etc.) including GD&T per ASME Y14.5 Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. Demonstrated experience owning hands-on, end-to-end hardware development efforts (e.g., FSAE, DBF, Rocket Team, or similar projects). Preferred Qualifications Familiarity with lightweight materials, composites, or additive manufacturing techniques Experience with sizing of structure through 1st order hand calculations or FEA (Nastran) or multi-physics software packages Experience supporting test at coupon, subscale, or assembly level for both development and qualification campaigns Experience designing for cross discipline impact including aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, or thermal management Experience integrating mechanical systems with sensors, actuators, and embedded control hardware. Experience with programming languages (e.g. python, MATLAB, C++) for analytical modeling, simulation and engineering problem-solving. Additional Requirements Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed ITAR Requirements To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here . Engineer $105,000 — $140,000 USD At Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends. Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy: Competitive Salaries : We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location. Performance-Based Incentives : Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-win scenario that motivates our team members to excel. Equity Participation : We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company. Benefit Packages : Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well-being extends beyond the office. Professional Development : We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth. Transparency : We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect. By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long-term success. Data Privacy To view Mach Industries candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://machindustries.com/privacy-policy . Disclosures This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license. Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. 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. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!