Staff/Senior Mechanical Engineer

About the Role

Electra is seeking a Staff / Senior Mechanical Engineer to support the design and development of mechanical systems for our hybrid-electric Ultra Short aircraft. This role involves hands-on engineering work across system architecture, design, integration, prototyping, and testing activities and is based in Manassas, Virginia.

Responsibilities

• Support the mechanical design, development, and integration of aircraft systems
• Develop design requirements, specifications, interface definitions, and supporting engineering documentation
• Perform engineering analyses, calculations, and simulations to verify system performance and compliance with program requirements
• Support trade studies and design evaluations to optimize performance, weight, reliability, maintainability, and cost
• Create and maintain CAD models, layouts, installation definitions, and drawing packages as required
• Support supplier selection, technical evaluations, and development activities
• Participate in design reviews and technical assessments
• Review engineering deliverables including analyses, drawings, test plans, models, reports, and certification artifacts
• Support system integration activities and collaborate across disciplines including structures, propulsion, electrical, avionics, manufacturing, and flight test
• Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve integration and operational issues identified during development and test activities
• Support qualification, verification, validation, and certification efforts
• Assist with development of compliance documentation for FAA Part 23 and other applicable regulatory requirements

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and 5+ years (Staff) or 8+ years (Senior) of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong understanding of mechanical system design, integration, and verification processes
• Experience developing engineering requirements, specifications, and technical documentation
• Experience performing engineering calculations and analytical assessments
• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD design and modeling tools, with NX experience strongly preferred
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary development environment
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, including the ability to work effectively across internal teams and external partners

Qualifications

Final leveling (Staff or Senior) will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, demonstrated skills, and degree of independence and autonomy appropriate for the role. Both levels require a strong foundation in engineering principles and the ability to solve complex technical problems. Differentiation between levels is based on degree of ownership, autonomy, and influence.

Skills

Experience supporting FAA Part 23 certification programs, mechanical design of aircraft systems, system integration, ground testing, and flight test support are considered bonus points. Working knowledge of GD&T and aerospace manufacturing methods, as well as experience collaborating with external suppliers and development partners, are also desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and equity
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
• Paid winter break
• 401(k) with immediate vesting
• Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
• Free on-site parking

Pay

Compensation ranges from $93,000.00 to $126,000.00 annually, depending on experience and location. Total compensation includes performance bonus, equity participation, and comprehensive benefits.

Schedule

Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions.