Staff Mechanical Engineer

Young Community Developers • Portland, OR

3d • $180,000 - $200,000 • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a Staff Mechanical Engineer to support the design and development of mechanical components, assemblies, and subsystems for multiple Counter UAS and autonomous system programs. This role is ideal for an engineer with approximately 10+ years of experience who is comfortable working in fast paced environments and handling a wide variety of mechanical design tasks—from initial concepts through detailed drawings, prototype builds, and design verification. The Staff ME will work closely with senior engineering leads to implement mechanical architectures, resolve integration issues, and support transition to production. Candidates with defense industry experience, small company adaptability, and familiarity with ruggedized systems are strongly preferred.

Requirements

• 10+ years of mechanical design experience in aerospace, defense, robotics, or related industries
• Solid proficiency in CAD modeling and mechanical drafting
• Hands-on experience designing for multiple manufacturing processes (machining, molding, sheet metal, rapid prototyping)
• Understanding of ruggedized electronics packaging, environmental considerations, and practical thermal/structural constraints
• Comfortable working in small teams with rapid iteration cycles
• Bachelor's degree or above in STEM field (Science, Technology, Engineering or Math) or an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
• Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a full-time basis without the need for current or future employment visa sponsorship.

Nice To Haves

• Experience supporting DoD programs or working in military‑focused environments
• Background with autonomous systems, UAV platforms, RF-enabled hardware, or counter‑UAS technologies
• Familiarity with qualification testing, environmental requirements, and defense documentation standards
• Experience in smaller engineering organizations, startups, or rapid prototyping programs
• Ability to grow toward increased project leadership responsibilities
• Clearance Level Required: No Security Clearance is required, but it is highly desired

Responsibilities

• Develop mechanical components, subassemblies, and enclosures for defense and counter UAS systems
• Create detailed CAD models, drawings, and documentation (SolidWorks preferred)
• Support design activities involving machined parts, injection molded components, sheet metal, and composite structures
• Perform tolerance analysis, basic structural evaluations, and thermal considerations with guidance from senior engineers
• Collaborate with electrical, RF, embedded systems, and manufacturing teams to resolve integration challenges
• Participate in prototype builds, test events, design reviews, and iterative improvement cycles
• Assist with supplier coordination, material selection, and DFM recommendations
• Maintain documentation, configuration control, and build support throughout product life cycles
• Present and communicate project details to key stakeholders

Benefits

• Comprehensive healthcare benefits package
• Base dental, vision, life, accident, disability, and other core benefits are fully covered by DZYNE
• Paid time off and paid holidays
• 401 (k) plan with an employer match and immediate vesting
• Annual bonus

What This Job Offers

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