Head of Mechanical Engineering

PDW; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 250,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

Performance Drone Works (PDW) seeks a senior Mechanical Engineering leader to build and scale a world-class Denver engineering hub. You will lead a team designing high‑rate, durable sUAS product lines, from concept through production and field deployment.

You will establish technical direction, set standards, mentor engineers, and partner with Electrical, Software, Systems, Product, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to deliver integrated, field-ready platforms for defense and public safety

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10+ years of experience developing complex mechanical systems for high-rate production.
• 4+ years of engineering leadership experience managing technical teams.
• Experience designing for high-volume manufacturing including injection molding, casting and stamping.
• Experience in electromechanical designs including motors, sensors and complex cable and harness assemblies.
• Experience qualifying components and assemblies using statistical process control (SPC).
• A pragmatic approach to tolerancing and specifications optimizing use of GD&T.
• Experience leading a cross functional team of engineers and industrial design in formation of multiple products.
• Exposure to electronics and software design fields.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with both internal and external customers.
• Ability to work well under pressure with dynamic and tight deadlines.
• Experience participating in cross-functional engineering efforts in fast-paced product development environments.
• Experience establishing engineering processes, technical standards, and development methodologies.
• Proven ability to recruit, mentor, and develop high-performing engineering teams.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence technical and business stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Build a world class team of Mechanical Engineers in Denver, designing innovative sUAS product lines and peripherals.
• Drive execution of complex mechanical systems from layout through design, production and field deployment.
• Guide design decisions for solutions optimized for high volume manufacturing and sustainment, with a focus on durability and usability in the field.
• Partner with Electrical, Software, Systems, Product, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to deliver integrated products.
• Establish technical direction, engineering standards, and development processes across mechanical engineering programs.
• Lead technical reviews, design reviews, and engineering risk assessments across multiple programs.
• Build organizational capability through hiring, mentoring, performance management, and career development.
• Develop resource plans, staffing strategies, and organizational structures to support company growth.
• Help build and scale PDW's Denver engineering hub into a world-class engineering organization.

Skills

Leadership

Mechanical design

High-volume manufacturing

GD&T

Cross-functional teamwork

Electromechanical design

Reliability & durability

Engineering mentorship

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Master's preferred

Job description

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country.

What You’ll Do

• Build a world class team of Mechanical Engineers in Denver, designing innovative sUAS product lines and peripherals.
• Drive execution of complex mechanical systems from layout through design, production and field deployment.
• Guide design decisions for solutions optimized for high volume manufacturing and sustainment, with a focus on durability and usability in the field.
• Partner with Electrical, Software, Systems, Product, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to deliver integrated products.
• Establish technical direction, engineering standards, and development processes across mechanical engineering programs.
• Lead technical reviews, design reviews, and engineering risk assessments across multiple programs.
• Build organizational capability through hiring, mentoring, performance management, and career development.
• Develop resource plans, staffing strategies, and organizational structures to support company growth.
• Help build and scale PDW's Denver engineering hub into a world-class engineering organization.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field.
• 10+ years of experience developing complex mechanical systems for high-rate production.
• 4+ years of engineering leadership experience managing technical teams and senior engineers.
• Experience designing for high-volume manufacturing including injection molding, casting and stamping.
• Experience in driving electromechanical designs including motors, sensors and complex cable and harness assemblies
• Experience qualifying components and assemblies using statistical process control (SPC)
• A pragmatic approach to tolerancing and specifications optimizing use of GD&T
• Experience leading a cross functional team of engineers and industrial design in formation of multiple products.
• Exposure to electronics and software design fields.
• Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with both internal and external customers.
• Ability to work well under pressure with dynamic and tight deadlines.
• Experience participating in cross-functional engineering efforts in fast-paced product development environments.
• Experience establishing engineering processes, technical standards, and development methodologies.
• Proven ability to recruit, mentor, and develop high-performing engineering teams.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence technical and business stakeholders.

Preferred

• Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field.
• Experience scaling engineering teams through periods of rapid organizational growth.
• Experience developing highly integrated mechanical systems incorporating compute, sensing, communications, and power subsystems.
• Experience with AS9100, ISO9001, or similar quality management systems.
• Experience supporting new product introduction, production ramp and high-volume manufacturing.
• Hands-on experience with UAVs, robotics, aircraft systems, or autonomous platforms.
• Experience supporting products deployed in demanding operational or field environments.

ITAR Requirement

In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3).

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office or manufacturing equipment as well as various electronic power supplies and test equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties.

Work Environment

This position typicallyoperatesin a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requirescross departmentalcollaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. This position may require working outside of core business hours as needed to support business and operational requirements.

Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• On-site gym
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistant Program (EAP).
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

The Pay Range For This Role Is

250,000 - 300,000 USD per year(DF02)