Mechanical Design and Manufacturing Engineer

Canopy A&D•Irvine, CA

3d•$80,000 - $140,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Mechanical Design and Manufacturing Engineer leads the design and development of advanced composite components and assemblies for new development projects, while also supporting production and sustainment of existing product lines. The role combines hands-on engineering and cross-functional collaboration to move innovations from concept through production. It emphasizes mechanical design, prototyping, and testing of composite phenolic and elastomer-based systems, with attention to manufacturability, production readiness, and compliance with aerospace and defense standards. The position is based onsite in Irvine, California, with travel to facilities in Riverside or Ontario as needed and up to 10% travel. Business hours are core business hours, with flexibility to support project needs beyond standard times. It reports to the Head of Engineering.

Requirements

At least 3 years of mechanical design experience, with emphasis on composites, thermal control, and vibration damping materials.
Proven leadership in engineering projects involving the design, prototyping, and manufacturing of mechanical, phenolic, and polymer-based systems.
Hands-on experience with technical projects, including collegiate or professional work focused on advanced materials and mechanical components.
Strong understanding of elastomer and phenolic manufacturing processes, material properties, and relevant testing standards.
Proficiency in CAD software and ability to produce high-quality, industry-compliant engineering drawings.
Solid understanding of engineering fundamentals, including structures, materials science, thermal management, and mechanical systems.
Skill in prototyping and fabrication techniques such as composite compression curing, composite layups, and mechanical assembly.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent industry experience in advanced material applications.
Professional working proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking English.
Ability to work in office, laboratory, and manufacturing environments, with occasional exposure to noise, chemicals, dust, industrial equipment, and temperature variations.
Ability to lift and carry up to 35 pounds and perform tasks involving standing, walking, bending, and manual assembly.
Visual acuity to read technical drawings, inspect components, and operate precision instruments.
Ability to travel occasionally to supplier or test sites, including outdoor or industrial settings, while following company and OSHA safety protocols.
Ability to safely wear required personal protective equipment, including respirators, gloves, eye protection, and protective clothing.
Ability to follow company safety policies, OSHA requirements, and manufacturing procedures.
Must meet the stated U.S. export-control eligibility requirements: be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain required U.S. Department of State authorizations.

Nice To Haves

Proficiency in SolidWorks or similar CAD/CAM tools and experience with PLM systems.
Strong knowledge of GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and its application in engineering drawings.
Advanced design experience in CNC machining, composites, ceramics, sheet metal, and compression molding, including tooling and mold design.
Demonstrated leadership and strong interpersonal skills in cross-functional engineering environments.
Familiarity with qualification campaigns for aerospace and defense hardware, including ruggedized system design.
Experience designing for harsh environments to ensure durability and performance under extreme conditions.
Active U.S. Security Clearance (Secret or higher), or ability to obtain one based on eligibility and required background checks.
Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field, or equivalent industry experience in advanced material applications.
Experience in an ISO 9001 or other quality-driven manufacturing environment.

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of complex mechanical components and assemblies for elastomer and phenolic composite systems.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define and implement scalable, high-quality manufacturing and assembly processes.
Create and maintain process control documentation to ensure compliance, consistency, and production efficiency.
Work with Manufacturing and Quality teams to identify, document, and implement process improvements on existing production lines.
Conduct trade studies and define requirements to optimize designs for radar absorption, thermal control, vibration damping, and mechanical performance.
Perform structural analysis using hand calculations and finite element analysis on composite structures and precision-engineered components.
Prototype and test advanced materials, including carbon fiber, silicones, and urethanes, and iterate based on performance data.
Investigate material and hardware failures, lead root cause analyses, and implement corrective actions during development and production.