Principal Mechanical Engineer, Hardware

BRINC • Seattle, WA

2d • $147,800 - $245,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead the conceptualization, design, prototyping, and testing of precision actuators, gimbals, and related mechanical systems for drone applications. The ideal candidate will have a deep understanding of kinematics, dynamics, and control systems, with a proven track record in designing lightweight, high-performance mechanisms for demanding environments. This role will involve full lifecycle development, from initial concept through to final validation, ensuring reliability and performance in safety critical drone operations.

Requirements

• 10+ years of industry experience in mechanical engineering or product design, with a strong focus on the design, analysis, and development of mechanical systems and precision mechanisms, such as linkages, gears, cams, and actuators, including experience in motion control, load analysis, and kinematic design.
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related
• Experience working in fast-paced technical environment where rapid development and safety are key
• Strong knowledge of DFM (Design for Manufacturability), DFA (for Assembly), and DFT (for Test)
• Experience with statistical tolerance analysis, dimensioning, GD&T
• Experience with industry standard 3D CAD modeling tool suites
• Working knowledge in material properties - plastics, metals, adhesives, and glass
• Working knowledge of manufacturing techniques - stamping, machining, 3D printing, injection modeling

Nice To Haves

• Extensive experience designing mechanical solutions for Aerospace, Robotics, Automotive, Consumer Electronics, or related industries
• Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related degree
• Experience working with domestic and international supply chain partners
• In-depth understanding of packaging for electronics, designing for high-stress shock & vibe environments; experience with failure analysis and FEA (Finite Element Analysis)
• Strong knowledge of motor types (DC, stepper, brushless, servo) and motor drive systems, including speed controllers and feedback mechanisms. Experience in motor selection, control (PWM, PID), and integration for high-performance, precision applications.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
• Ability to work independently and in a small team, take initiative, and communicate effectively
• Experience developing mechanical solutions for UAV/UAS used in commercial, industrial, or defense applications

Responsibilities

• Own hardware development from start to finish - from specification to design, prototype, testing and manufacturing.
• Work collaboratively with software, electrical, perception, controls, and manufacturing engineers.
• Design both flight hardware and test setups to validate designs.
• Establish top-level design architectures and implementation methodologies for the team.
• Clearly communicate design decisions with internal stakeholders.
• Perform and document design analysis and testing results; make data-driven decisions to land key product features.
• Work closely with Industrial Design partners to ensure the final product meets design intent and customer needs.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to the broader mechanical engineering team.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans for our employees and their families
• 401K plan
• Maternity and paternity leave
• Flexible Time Off (Exempt) / Paid time off (Non-Exempt)
• Flexible work environment
• Orca pass (for those in Puget Sound)
• Free parking (Seattle office)
• Free snacks, drinks and espresso (Seattle office)

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Principal