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. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together.

Responsibilities

• Design and analyze mechanical components and assemblies for drones, payloads, and supporting systems.
• Create 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, BOMs, and other engineering documentation.
• Build, prototype, and test hardware to rapidly develop and refine product designs.
• Plan and execute validation testing, analyze failures, and implement design improvements.
• Design test fixtures, assembly jigs, and other tooling to support engineering and manufacturing.
• Apply sound engineering practices including DFM, DFA, and tolerance analysis to create robust, manufacturable designs.
• Collaborate with electrical, software, manufacturing, and quality engineers throughout product development.
• Support the transition of new products from prototype to production and help solve manufacturing challenges.

Requirements

• 2-4 years of work experience in design and development of electromechanical components, assemblies, and systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, or a technically related field.
• Proficient in 3D CAD modeling and experience in DFM for Injection Molding, Machining, Additive Manufacturing.
• Working knowledge of SolidWorks or similar CAD software.
• Experience in mechanical design review and product testing.
• Ability to create high-quality engineering drawings that meet industry standards.
• Demonstrated hands-on fabrication skills.
• Strong success rate of receiving and interpreting design direction from creative partners.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Problem-solving and critical thinking.
• Strong interdisciplinary skills across other engineering departments.
• Must have the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Working experience with 3D printing.
• Experience in UAV aircrafts, robotics development, and/or hobby drones.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.

• Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 50 pounds.
• Must have manual dexterity to operate standard machine shop equipment as well as standard office equipment.

Work Environment

• This position typically operates in a standard manufacturing environment.
• This role requires use of standard machine shop and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or 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.
• Standard work hours for this position are 8:30am-5:00pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

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.
• On-site gym.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.