Junior Mechanical Engineer

About the role

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus.

Responsibilities

• Support the design and development of mechanical components and assemblies under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Create and maintain 3D CAD models and 2D drawings using SolidWorks.
• Participate in design reviews, learning from and contributing constructive feedback.
• Absorb and assist with prototype builds, test setups, and basic validation activities.
• Document engineering work clearly, including BOMs, ECOs, and design notes.
• Support root cause analysis and corrective actions on hardware issues.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teammates including manufacturing, electrical, and product teams.
• Continuously develop technical skills through hands-on work, mentorship, and self-study.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, with relevant professional mechanical design experience.
• Foundational skills in 3D CAD; SolidWorks experience through coursework or internship preferred.
• Basic understanding of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
• Familiarity with common manufacturing processes such as sheet metal, injection molding, or machining.
• Eagerness to learn DFM/DFA principles and apply them in a fast-moving hardware environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to ask good questions and receive feedback constructively.

Preferred

• Hands-on experience with UAVs, robotics, or electromechanical systems through coursework or personal projects.
• Exposure to FEA tools (SolidWorks Simulation or similar) in an academic or professional setting.
• Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems for document and revision control.
• Coursework or project experience involving prototype fabrication or hands-on testing.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift/carry up to 25 pounds.
• Must have manual dexterity to operate standard machine shop equipment and standard office equipment.
• Must be physically capable of tolerating loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE).
• May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment.
• Work environment includes exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments.

Work Environment

• This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment.
• This role requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may involve exposure to loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE) and may require occasional travel to test sites/customer locations/supplier facilities.
• This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments.
• May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment.
• This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross-departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities.

ITAR Requirement

• In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Benefits

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.
• On-site Gym.

Pay Range

$70,000 - $90,000 USD per year (DF02)