Senior Staff Aero-Mechanical Engineer

Summary

Redwire Defense Tech is seeking a Senior Staff Aero-Mechanical Engineer to lead system-level mechanical architecture and integration across multiple vehicle programs. This role sets direction for complex mechanical and structural system design within the UAS portfolio.

Responsibilities

• Lead system-level mechanical architecture and integration across multiple vehicle programs.
• Define and validate complex structures using simulation, testing, and analytical methods.
• Drive major design reviews (CoDR, PDR, CDR, TRR) and ensure closure of high-impact actions.
• Establish and maintain company-wide mechanical design standards, documentation templates, and best practices.
• Guide failure investigations and implement systemic corrective actions to prevent recurrence.
• Partner with manufacturing, supply chain, and quality to ensure scalability and repeatability of designs.
• Support IRAD and R&D efforts to mature future platforms, tools, and technologies.
• Mentor engineering staff across disciplines, fostering technical growth and leadership readiness.
• Represent mechanical engineering in cross-site, cross-program alignment discussions with executives.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field required.
• 10–15 years of aerospace mechanical design and integration experience, preferably in UAS or defense.
• Demonstrated ownership of system-level architectures or platform-scale integration efforts.
• Proven success leading technical teams through design, verification, and production readiness.
• Expert in CAD design (SolidWorks preferred) with demonstrated experience in large assemblies and configuration control.
• Advanced knowledge of FEA, thermal and vibration analysis, and composite design optimization.
• Proficiency in defining and reviewing engineering standards, process flows, and PDM/PLM governance.
• Ability to translate system requirements into design architecture and subsystem allocations.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing methods, tooling, and supply chain integration.
• Exceptional technical judgment and decision-making skills.
• Strategic thinker who can align engineering outputs with organizational objectives.
• Highly collaborative, able to influence at all levels of the organization.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical and executive audiences.
• Demonstrated commitment to mentorship and cross-functional team growth.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering preferred.
• 15+ years of engineering experience with flight vehicle development leadership or chief engineer exposure.
• Experience in establishing cross-program engineering standards and defining platform architecture frameworks.
• Experience with multi-physics simulation environments and optimization techniques for weight reduction and efficiency.
• Understanding of system safety, airworthiness, and design assurance standards (DO-160, MIL-STD).
• Proficiency in technical risk management and DFMEA methodologies.
• Able to influence technology roadmaps and drive long-term innovation investment.
• Strong organizational leadership skills with an emphasis on collaboration and transparency.
• Adept at balancing vision with practical execution in fast-moving development environments.