IR&D Mechanical Engineer

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions; Orlando (FL); On-site; USD 85,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical Insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) Savings

Employee Stock Purchase Plan

Paid Time Off

Holidays

Education Reimbursement

Job summary

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions in Orlando, FL is seeking an innovative IR&D Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering team focused on next-generation simulated defense systems, sensors, and aviation training.

You will design, analyze, test, and iterate on mechanical solutions, contribute to prototyping, and collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to transition concepts into field-ready capabilities.

Qualifications

• Design, analyze, test, and iterate on complex mechanical solutions.
• Create CAD models, drawings, and documentation; develop test plans.
• Collaborate with engineers, subcontractors, manufacturing teams, suppliers, and customers.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, troubleshoot, and develop mechanical solutions for simulated defense systems and aviation training technologies.
• Develop and execute test plans, gather data, and refine designs based on results.
• Use CAD software to create detailed design models, drawings, and documentation.
• Collaborate with engineering teammates, subcontractors, manufacturing teams, suppliers, and customers to resolveTechnical challenges.
• Support full engineering life-cycle activities, including modeling, prototyping, integration, and verification.

Skills

CFD

FEA

prototype development

technical writing

MS Office

collaboration

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering

EIT Certification (Florida Board of Engineers)

Tools

SolidWorks

Fusion 360

Creo

Ansys Fluent

Ansys Mechanical

Python

MATLAB

Windchill

Agile PLM

3D printing

CNC machining

Lathes and mills

Job description

Job Description

Readiness delivered. Kratos is seeking an innovative IR&D Mechanical Engineer to join our advanced engineering team focused on developing next-generation technologies for simulated defense systems, sensors, and aviation training. In this role, you will design, analyze, test, and iterate on complex mechanical solutions that support Kratos’ mission of delivering cutting-edge, affordable systems for national security. You will play a hands-on role in prototype development, technical problem solving, and collaboration across multidisciplinary teams as you help transform early-stage concepts into field-ready capabilities.

• Design, analyze, troubleshoot, and develop advanced mechanical solutions supporting simulated defense systems and aviation training technologies.
• Perform research, conduct experiments, and evaluate technical data to inform design decisions and improve prototype and product performance.
• Use CAD software to create detailed design models, drawings, and documentation.
• Develop and execute test plans, gather data, and refine designs based on empirical results.
• Collaborate closely with engineering teammates, subcontractors, manufacturing teams, suppliers, and customers to resolve complex technical challenges.
• Support full engineering life-cycle activities, including modeling, prototyping, integration, and verification.
• Communicate engineering findings and recommendations through clear technical documentation and presentations.

Experience And Skills

• Bachelor of Science or higher in Mechanical Engineering
• Engineer in Training (EIT) Certification
• EIT Certification must be issued by the Florida Board of Engineers

Preferred Skills/Experience

• Experience with 3D CAD tools such as SolidWorks, Fusion360, or Creo
• Familiarity with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
• Experience with software and tools such as Ansys Fluent, Ansys Mechanical, Python, or MATLAB
• Hands?on prototyping experience including 3D printing, CNC machining, or use of lathes and mills
• Knowledge of PLM systems such as Agile PLM or Windchill
• Strong technical writing skills and proficiency with MS Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
• Understanding of GD&T principles
• Experience working with mechanical testing equipment such as Instron systems

Competitive salary based on experience and education

Kratos delivers immersive, high-fidelity training environments that enhance readiness across air, ground, maritime, and space domains. Using advanced simulation systems that integrate Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR), Kratos helps warfighters build tactical skills, improve decision-making, and accelerate operational performance before they enter live operations. Customers trust us to stay relevant and know we are in it for the long-haul. We bring both the capability and confidence that our customers value and depend on. And we always deliver.

This posting will close within 90 days from the Posting Date.

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affi mative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

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