Mechanical Design Engineer
Senior Mechanical Design Engineer – Missile Defense Systems – 12 Month Contract – Remote
Join a mission-focused engineering team developing advanced solid propulsion and open-architecture airborne ISR technologies for DoD weapon systems, missile defense, and space launch programs. This is a hands-on role for a senior engineer who thrives on solving complex design challenges at a small, collaborative company working alongside industry pioneers.
What You'll Do
- Lead design of hot gas valves, rocket thrusters, actuators, igniters, and pressure vessels
- Own trade-off analysis and design optimization across multidisciplinary systems
- Build intricate 2D/3D CAD models and technical drawings; apply advanced GD&T and tolerance analysis
- Run structural, dynamic, and thermal simulations; interpret results to drive design decisions
- Guide material selection and characterization for demanding applications
- Oversee additive manufacturing, composite layups, machining, molding, and assembly — including quality control and technical guidance to assembly teams
- Design test setups and custom fixtures; lead large-scale, high-risk test programs
- Drive requirements engineering, risk management, and continuous improvement across programs
- Manage schedules, proposals, and cross-functional teams on large-scale projects
- Communicate technical findings clearly through documentation and presentations
What You Bring
- 10–15 years of mechanical engineering experience, ideally in rocket motor design and testing
- BS in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering or related field (MS preferred); equivalent experience considered
- U.S. citizenship, with ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
- A self-motivated, collaborative, “get it done” mindset
- Willingness to travel ~10%