Mechanical Engineer

NOMAD; McKinney (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Full medical, dental, and vision benefits

401(k) with company contribution

Equity participation available

Job summary

A defense technology company in McKinney, Texas is seeking a hands-on Mechanical Engineer. The role involves designing and analyzing aerospace structures, requiring expertise in CAD software and composite materials. Candidates should have over 3 years of experience in the aerospace field and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment. Compensation includes competitive salary and full benefits, with opportunities for rapid career advancement and collaboration with industry experts.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of mechanical engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or UAS industries.
• Hands-on experience with composite materials design and fabrication.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, resource-efficient startup environment.

Responsibilities

• Design and analyze airframe structures and mechanical assemblies.
• Generate 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings.
• Perform structural analysis including FEA and margin of safety calculations.
• Lead manufacturing and assembly support.
• Define and execute mechanical test plans.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

Aerospace Engineering

3D CAD software (SolidWorks)

Composite materials design

Structural analysis (FEA)

Education

Bachelor of Science in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

FEMAP

NASTRAN

Job description

Description

Delta Black Aerospace is looking for a hands‑on Mechanical Engineer to support the structural design, analysis, and fabrication of the RAIDER 330 airframe and mechanical subsystems. This role demands deep expertise in aerospace structures and composite materials, combined with the agility to operate in a rapid prototype‑to‑field environment. You will own mechanical design from CAD model through physical hardware, partnering closely with propulsion, electrical, and systems engineers to deliver a reliable, field‑survivable Group 3 UAS.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and analyze airframe structures, mechanical assemblies, and propulsion mounting systems for the RAIDER 330
• Generate 3D CAD models and 2D engineering drawings using SolidWorks or equivalent tools
• Perform structural analysis including FEA, load‑path analysis, fatigue, and margin of safety calculations
• Design and specify composite layups, bonded joints, and lightweight structural components for aerospace environments
• Lead manufacturing and assembly support, working with machinists, composite technicians, and vendors
• Define and execute mechanical test plans including static loads, vibration, and environmental qualificationManage mechanical design documentation including BOM, assembly procedures, and configuration control
• Collaborate on integration of VTOL lift systems, E‑STOL landing gear, and modular payload interfaces
• Support failure investigation and corrective action for mechanical anomalies during ground and flight test
• Identify and qualify mechanical COTS components and raw materials for aerospace use

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering
• 3+ years of mechanical engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or UAS industries
• Proficiency with 3D CAD software (SolidWorks strongly preferred)
• Hands‑on experience with composite materials design and fabrication
• Experience with structural analysis using FEA tools (FEMAP, NASTRAN, or equivalent)
• Understanding of GD&T and engineering drawing standards
• Demonstrated ability to translate design intent into manufactured hardware
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, resource‑efficient startup environment

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with VTOL, multi‑rotor, or hybrid propulsion platform structures
• Background with propeller or rotor system mechanical design
• Familiarity with AS9100, MIL‑HDBK‑5, or other aerospace design standards
• Experience with rapid prototyping technologies (FDM, SLA)
• Knowledge of airworthiness or type certification structural requirements
• Active Secret or Top Secret clearance
• Prior SBIR/STTR, OTA, or rapid acquisition program experience

Security Clearance

Active Secret clearance preferred; must be able to obtain Secret clearance. U.S. Citizenship required.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience; equity participation available
• Full medical, dental, and vision benefits
• 401(k) with company contribution
• Opportunity for rapid career advancement in a high‑growth defense technology company
• Direct collaboration with former Warfighters and senior UAS industry experts
• Potential for travel to test sites and partner facilities