Senior Electromechanical Engineer

Whisper Aero • Crossville, TN

51d • Onsite

About The Position

Whisper Aero is seeking a Senior Electromechanical Engineer to work onsite in Crossville, TN. This engineer is a highly skilled multi-disciplinary engineer with a proven track record of creating innovative, clever mechanisms and demonstrating strong system-level design thinking. As part of our dynamic team, you'll contribute to the development of complex, multi-disciplinary systems by making well-considered design decisions that enhance the functionality and elegance of the entire system. You will architect and execute complex prototypes, systems where mechanical, electrical, and software integration converge, all with a focus on clever, elegant mechanisms that embody simplicity, efficiency, and purpose. Your work will directly contribute to new operational manned and unmanned aircraft prototypes. If you're an engineer who consistently brings ingenuity to your designs and excels at both conceptualization and execution, we want to hear from you.

Requirements

• Requires a bachelors or master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related engineering discipline AND demonstrates skill, credentials and understanding in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, Electronics, Robotics, and Embedded Systems.
• Requires greater than 7 years of experience designing and implementing innovative mechanisms for aerospace or defense that work effectively within larger systems. The experience should demonstrate creativity, functionality, and an understanding of mechanical principles at both the component and system levels.
• CAD Proficiency: Expert-level proficiency in CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, NX) is essential. Experience with simulation tools (e.g., FEA, CFD) and their use in optimizing both individual components and systems is a plus
• Prototyping and Fabrication: Experience with hands-on prototyping, 3D printing, CNC machining, and other fabrication techniques, with a focus on building components that integrate into larger systems effectively. Can demonstrate ability to design for manufacturing and systems level thinking.
• System Thinking and Multidisciplinary Skills: Proven experience designing with system-level thinking in mind. Experience working alongside other engineering disciplines such as electrical or software is beneficial. Exposure to robotics, automation, or mechatronics systems is a strong plus.
• Analytical Skills: Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including materials science, statics, dynamics, thermodynamics, and how they apply to system-level designs.
• Component-Level Optimization: Ability to optimize individual components for improved system functionality, reliability, and performance. You'll take a holistic view to ensure every part contributes to a well-balanced, efficient, and high-performing system.
• Grit and Perseverance: Ability to persist through design challenges, test multiple iterations, and deliver solutions on time while maintaining quality even in the presence of failed designs

Responsibilities

• Mechanical & Mechanism Design Mastery
• Develop creative mechanisms and assemblies that solve complex problems with simplicity and reliability.
• Demonstrate mastery of hand calcs used for solving everyday engineering problems. Demonstrate ability to determine the minimum-right-level of analysis for the problem at hand.
• Apply FEA and hand calculations to achieve strength and stiffness targets while minimizing weight and part count.
• Drive prototype airframe and subsystem designs that balance speed of build with mechanical elegance.
• Select materials and manufacturing methods (CNC, additive, composite, sheet metal) appropriate to each design spiral.
• CAD Mastery: Produce clear, buildable designs in CAD and build hands-on prototypes that demonstrate refined mechanical judgment. Utilize advanced CAD software (such as SolidWorks, Creo, or similar) to create detailed 3D models, assembly drawings, and technical documentation for both quick prototypes and final designs. Your designs will reflect both individual creativity and the needs of the overall system.
• Innovative Mechanism Design: Develop and design complex mechanical systems, focusing on creative and efficient mechanisms that integrate seamlessly into larger systems. You'll regularly be tasked with solving intricate engineering problems by thinking at both the component and system level.
• System-Level Design Thinking: Understand the broader system architecture and ensure that component-level decisions contribute to an elegant, functional whole. You'll work to ensure that mechanical subsystems complement electrical, software, and control elements, optimizing for overall system performance.
• Rapid Prototyping: Collaborate with the team to bring designs to life through rapid prototyping, iterative development, and hands-on testing. Be comfortable working with various tools and technologies to quickly build and evaluate your designs.
• Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with electrical engineers, software developers, and other team members to ensure seamless integration of mechanical systems into larger projects, with a deep understanding of how your design choices impact other disciplines.
• Component Optimization for System Performance: Make intelligent design decisions at the component level that enhance the system's performance, reduce complexity, and improve reliability. You'll think critically about how each part contributes to the overall system's success.
• Problem Solving: Exhibit a creative, problem-solving mindset, using a mix of engineering fundamentals, trial and error, and ingenuity to develop functional, reliable, and elegant mechanical solutions that align with system goals.
• Iterative Design: Embrace the spiral design process, working in fast-paced cycles to continuously improve and refine designs based on testing and feedback.
• Team Engagement: Participate in design reviews, offering insights on how to improve the system's efficiency and elegance through thoughtful mechanical design. Share your knowledge of system-level impacts and learn from other team members.
• Aerospace Systems Design
• Perform aircraft performance and mission analyses to inform structural and propulsion trades.
• Utilize VLM and panel methods to refine aerodynamic surfaces and validate design assumptions.
• Electrical & Embedded Integration
• Architect prototype electrical systems and assist in developing embedded control interfaces for mechanical mechanisms.
• Collaborate closely with technicians to produce clean, serviceable wiring harnesses and system layouts.
• Prototyping & Spiral Development
• Plan and execute rapid spiral design cycles from concept to flight-test article.
• Identify and tackle the highest-risk elements first, reducing uncertainty through quick builds and tests.
• Mentor technicians and junior engineers, emphasizing craftsmanship, engineering rigor, and elegant execution.
• Document designs and rationale with clarity, each design should teach the next.
• Natural mentor and collaborator who elevates those around them through practical wisdom and high standards.

Benefits

• Top-tier Benefits: 100% paid Medical, dental, and vision for employees, 75% paid for dependents
• PTO & Federal Holidays: Starting at four weeks of paid time off for vacation, sick, and personal days
• Competitive Salary: Value-based compensation, plus enjoy Tennessee's no-income-tax life
• End of Year Bonuses: For eligible employees
• We always have beverages and snacks available to energize you throughout the day, with paid team meals based on office demands.
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Professional Development Stipend

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Industry: Transportation Equipment Manufacturing
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees