Mechanical Engineer – Design

Mechanical Engineer  – Design
Location: Reno, NV | Folsom, CA | Huntsville, AL | Remote

A fast-growing defense and space technology company is seeking a senior-level Mechanical Engineer with deep expertise in propulsion and high-temperature systems to join its advanced engineering team.

This organisation operates at the forefront of national security and space innovation, delivering mission-critical technologies that operate in extreme environments. The team is focused on solving highly complex engineering challenges across propulsion, energetics, and advanced manufacturing.

The Opportunity

This is a senior-level design role requiring strong technical ownership across propulsion system development, high-temperature materials, and actuator design. The successful candidate will be comfortable leading complex engineering efforts from concept through testing and manufacturing.

Key Responsibilities

Design & Propulsion Systems

• Lead design of actuators, igniters, hot gas valves, rocket thrusters, and solid rocket motor systems

• Conduct trade studies and performance optimisation

• Drive multidisciplinary integration across mechanical, materials, and systems teams

CAD & Modelling

• Create complex 2D and 3D models using advanced CAD tools

• Produce detailed technical drawings with full GD&T compliance

• Contribute to best practices in solid modelling and drawing standards

Materials & High-Temperature Applications

• Select and characterise advanced ceramics, refractory metals, and high-performance alloys

• Lead material optimisation for extreme temperature environments

• Provide expert consultation on processing techniques and performance behaviour

Analysis & Simulation

• Conduct structural, dynamic, and thermal analysis

• Build and validate complex simulation models

• Perform tolerance stack-ups and statistical analysis

Manufacturing & Testing

• Support additive manufacturing, composite layups, machining, casting, and welding processes

• Define inspection and NDT requirements

• Develop test plans and support data analysis

• Handle integration and testing of energetic systems

Systems & Performance

• Contribute to requirements definition, mass budgeting, and risk analysis

• Support internal ballistics analysis and propulsion performance optimisation

• Assist with control system implementation and system-level integration

Required Experience

• 10 to 15 years of mechanical engineering experience

• Experience in propulsion systems, rocket motor design, or high-temperature mechanical systems

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance

• U.S. person status in line with ITAR regulations

Preferred

• Master’s degree in a relevant engineering discipline

• Rocket motor design and test experience

• Comfortable leading small teams and cross-functional projects

• Willingness to travel approximately 10 percent

What’s on Offer

• Competitive base salary

• Annual bonus

• Comprehensive healthcare package

• Retirement plan

• PTO and wellness support

• Opportunity to work on mission-critical propulsion systems with real-world impact