Mechanical Engineer, Components and Propulsion

About the role

At Anduril, our Mechanical Engineers, Components and Propulsion are at the forefront of defense technology, crafting high-impact, cutting-edge propulsion systems and high-performance mechanical components that redefine innovation.

Responsibilities

• Design & Analyze Propulsion Systems: Lead the conceptualization, design, and detailed engineering of novel propulsion systems (e.g., electric, turbofan, rocket, hybrid) including engines, motors, pumps, and associated fluidic or thermal management components, ensuring optimal performance and efficiency.
• Develop High-Performance Mechanical Components: Design and optimize critical mechanical components and subsystems, such as gearboxes, actuators, mechanisms, and structural elements, to meet stringent performance, reliability, and mass targets in extreme environments.
• Conduct Advanced Thermo-Fluid & Structural Analysis: Perform comprehensive simulations and analyses including Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for stress/thermal/vibration, and thermodynamic modeling to predict and validate system behavior.
• Prototype, Test & Validate: Drive the fabrication, assembly, and rigorous testing of propulsion prototypes and key components, developing test plans, executing experiments, collecting data, and performing root cause analysis to refine designs.
• Integrate & Optimize for Production: Collaborate closely with Systems, Electrical, Software, and Manufacturing teams to ensure seamless integration of propulsion and mechanical components into larger platforms, optimizing designs for manufacturability, maintainability, and scalability.

Requirements

• Educational Foundation & Experience: Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, coupled with 3+ years of direct, hands-on experience in propulsion system design, analysis, or the development of high-performance mechanical components.
• Propulsion System Expertise: Demonstrated experience with the design, analysis (e.g., thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, turbomachinery), and testing of propulsion systems (e.g., electric motors, internal combustion engines, jet engines, rocket engines).
• Advanced Simulation & Analysis Skills: Proficiency in relevant engineering analysis software, including CFD (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM), FEA (e.g., ANSYS, Nastran), and multi-physics simulation tools.
• Mechanical Design & CAD Proficiency: Strong skills in detailed mechanical design using professional CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, NX), with a solid understanding of GD&T, materials selection, and manufacturing processes relevant to high-performance components.
• Hands-on Testing & Data Analysis: Proven ability to plan, execute, and analyze results from propulsion or component-level testing, including familiarity with data acquisition systems, instrumentation, and experimental validation techniques.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.

Qualifications

• Passionate about advancing military technology and contributing to the development of cutting-edge propulsion and mechanical systems.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a collaborative mindset, working effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams.

Skills

• Proficiency in CFD, FEA, and multi-physics simulation tools.
• Experience with CAD software (SolidWorks, CATIA, NX).
• Knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, heat transfer, and turbomachinery.
• Experience with propulsion systems (electric, turbofan, rocket, hybrid).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Benefits

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:

• Comprehensive health insurance
• Retirement savings plans
• Flexible spending accounts
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee assistance programs

For more information, explore our benefits at Anduril's Benefits Page.