Senior Mechanical Engineer

Careers•San Antonio, TX

11d•Onsite

About The Position

As a Senior Mechanical Engineer at Darkhive, you will be the technical anchor for our hardware engineering team. You will lead the design and development of our next-generation autonomous UAS platforms, moving products from conceptual sketches to mission-ready hardware. This role requires a master-level command of CAD to create complex, integrated assemblies that balance aggressive weight targets with thermal and structural requirements. You will work at the intersection of prototype development and mass production, ensuring our drones remain low-cost without compromising the high performance required by defense users. Beyond individual contribution, you will serve as a lead mentor to our engineering staff, providing technical guidance, conducting rigorous design reviews, and establishing engineering best practices for integrated product design.

Requirements

Experienced Mechanical Engineer: 5+ years of professional experience in mechanical design, with a proven track record of taking complex hardware products from concept through production.
Advanced CAD Mastery: Expert-level proficiency in SolidWorks, NX, or similar 3D modeling software, including large assembly management, complex surfacing, and advanced simulation for Thermal Management and Shock and Vibration analysis.
Integrated Product Design: Deep experience in the mechanical integration of electronics, sensors, and propulsion systems into compact, high-performance enclosures.
Prototype to Production: Extensive hands-on experience in rapid prototype development.
Technical Mentorship: Proven ability to mentor junior/mid-level engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and collaborative problem-solving.
Ability to sit and/or stand for periods of time.
Ability to use a keyboard, mouse, and other equipment with or without accommodations.
Ability to maintain awareness during business hours.
Ability to lift up to 15 pounds.
Excellent written and verbal communication and good command of the English language.
Learns and memorizes routine tasks.

Nice To Haves

Deep Drone Experience: High priority given to candidates with direct experience in Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (UAS) or robotics.
Aerospace Engineering Experience: Familiarity with flight loads, aerodynamics, and aerospace-grade material selection.
PCB Design/Integration: Experience with Altium or similar tools to better facilitate mechanical-to-electrical integration.
Defense Industry Background: Experience with NDAA/Blue UAS compliance or MIL-STD testing.
U.S. Military Veteran: Experience with tactical equipment from a user perspective.
An active security clearance (not required).

Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of our next-generation autonomous UAS platforms
Create complex, integrated assemblies that balance aggressive weight targets with thermal and structural requirements
Ensure our drones remain low-cost without compromising the high performance required by defense users
Serve as a lead mentor to our engineering staff, providing technical guidance, conducting rigorous design reviews, and establishing engineering best practices for integrated product design.