Head of Mechanical Engineering
About The Position
We are seeking a Head of Mechanical Engineering to build a world-class team in Denver, focusing on designing innovative sUAS product lines and peripherals. This role will drive the execution of complex mechanical systems from layout through design, production, and field deployment. The ideal candidate will guide design decisions for solutions optimized for high volume manufacturing and sustainment, with a focus on durability and usability in the field. You will partner with Electrical, Software, Systems, Product, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to deliver integrated products. This position will establish technical direction, engineering standards, and development processes across mechanical engineering programs. You will lead technical reviews, design reviews, and engineering risk assessments across multiple programs. Additionally, you will build organizational capability through hiring, mentoring, performance management, and career development, developing resource plans, staffing strategies, and organizational structures to support company growth. This role is crucial in helping build and scale PDW's Denver engineering hub into a world-class engineering organization.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field.
- 10+ years of experience developing complex mechanical systems for high-rate production.
- 4+ years of engineering leadership experience managing technical teams and senior engineers.
- Experience designing for high-volume manufacturing including injection molding, casting and stamping.
- Experience in driving electromechanical designs including motors, sensors and complex cable and harness assemblies
- Experience qualifying components and assemblies using statistical process control (SPC)
- A pragmatic approach to tolerancing and specifications optimizing use of GD&T
- Experience leading a cross functional team of engineers and industrial design in formation of multiple products.
- Exposure to electronics and software design fields.
- Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with both internal and external customers.
- Ability to work well under pressure with dynamic and tight deadlines.
- Experience participating in cross-functional engineering efforts in fast-paced product development environments.
- Experience establishing engineering processes, technical standards, and development methodologies.
- Proven ability to recruit, mentor, and develop high-performing engineering teams.
- Strong communication skills with the ability to influence technical and business stakeholders.
- In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).
Nice To Haves
- Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field.
- Experience scaling engineering teams through periods of rapid organizational growth.
- Experience developing highly integrated mechanical systems incorporating compute, sensing, communications, and power subsystems.
- Experience with AS9100, ISO9001, or similar quality management systems.
- Experience supporting new product introduction, production ramp and high-volume manufacturing.
- Hands-on experience with UAVs, robotics, aircraft systems, or autonomous platforms.
- Experience supporting products deployed in demanding operational or field environments.
Responsibilities
- Build a world class team of Mechanical Engineers in Denver, designing innovative sUAS product lines and peripherals.
- Drive execution of complex mechanical systems from layout through design, production and field deployment.
- Guide design decisions for solutions optimized for high volume manufacturing and sustainment, with a focus on durability and usability in the field.
- Partner with Electrical, Software, Systems, Product, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to deliver integrated products.
- Establish technical direction, engineering standards, and development processes across mechanical engineering programs.
- Lead technical reviews, design reviews, and engineering risk assessments across multiple programs.
- Build organizational capability through hiring, mentoring, performance management, and career development.
- Develop resource plans, staffing strategies, and organizational structures to support company growth.
- Help build and scale PDW's Denver engineering hub into a world-class engineering organization.
Benefits
- Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
- Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
- Paid Parental Leave.
- A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
- On-site gym
- Employer provided life insurance.
- Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
- Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
