Senior Mechanical Designer

Valar Atomics • Hawthorne, CA

67d

About The Position

We’re seeking a Senior Mechanical Designer with strong 3D modeling and drafting expertise, deep understanding of mechanical design principles, and experience translating complex engineering concepts into production-ready documentation. This role is ideal for a designer who thrives in a fast-paced, highly technical environment — and who enjoys solving real engineering challenges through meticulous design execution.

Requirements

• Associate or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Drafting, or related discipline.
• 7+ years of professional experience as a mechanical designer in a hardware development environment.
• Expert-level proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Creo, or NX).
• Strong understanding of GD&T, dimensioning, tolerancing, and drawing standards (ASME Y14.5).
• Experience designing machined, sheet metal, and fabricated components.
• Ability to collaborate closely with engineers and manufacturers to resolve design challenges.
• Excellent attention to detail and strong organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in aerospace, energy, or defense hardware environments.
• Knowledge of materials, coatings, and high-performance fabrication methods.
• Proficiency with PDM/PLM systems (e.g., Windchill, Teamcenter, SolidWorks PDM).
• Hands-on experience with prototype assembly and testing.

Responsibilities

• Develop high-quality 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed drawings for mechanical systems and components using SolidWorks or Creo.
• Collaborate with engineers and fabricators to ensure all designs meet DFM/DFA principles and production constraints.
• Generate engineering drawings with complete GD&T, tolerances, and BOMs in accordance with ASME standards.
• Support system-level design by coordinating interfaces across structures, thermal systems, enclosures, and electrical integration points.
• Manage design data, revisions, and release processes using PDM/PLM tools.
• Participate in design reviews, tolerance stack-ups, and fit-check studies to validate form, fit, and function.
• Provide guidance and technical support to junior designers and drafters on CAD practices, standards, and design methodologies.
• Contribute to the refinement of internal design standards, CAD libraries, and workflows to enhance efficiency and consistency.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation and benefits package.
• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement.
• A collaborative, high-performance engineering culture.
• Access to cutting-edge design tools and prototyping facilities.
• The chance to make a tangible impact on next-generation energy systems.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree