Mechanical Engineer (Contract)

Swan; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Swan is seeking a Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineer to join their Pittsburgh team. This contractor role focuses on designing, building, and testing low-volume prototypes, integrating sensors and managing hardware for autonomous systems.

The ideal candidate will have over 3 years of engineering experience, expertise in CAD tools, and a background in robotics or defense systems. This position offers the opportunity to work in a fast-paced, innovative environment.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of mechanical engineering experience with a focus on design and assembly.
• Understanding of robotics, UAVs, or defense hardware systems preferred.
• Background in mechatronics and sensor integration.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and fabrication of wire harnesses.
• Execute assembly and testing for low-volume prototypes.
• Select hardware components for systems integration.
• Develop wiring diagrams and manage harness routing.
• Collaborate with electrical and software teams.

Skills

Mechanical engineering experience

Proficiency in CAD tools

Expertise in PCBA integration

Knowledge of CNC machining

3D printing experience

Education

BS, MS, or PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Solidworks

OnShape

Catia

Job description

About Us

Swan delivers the future of defense and industry through scalable autonomous products. Swan is backed by leading defense VCs including a16z's American Dynamism fund.

Role Overview

Swan is seeking a hands‑on Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineer (Contractor) to support our Pittsburgh team in designing, building, and testing low‑volume prototypes. This role involves integrating sensors, developing wiring harnesses, and managing hardware integration for autonomous systems. The ideal candidate is a high‑ownership self‑starter comfortable owning designs from CAD through physical iteration.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and fabrication of wire harnesses and connector integration.
• Execute assembly and testing for low‑volume sensing system prototypes.
• Select hardware components including contacts, wire types, shielding, and backshells.
• Develop comprehensive wiring diagrams and manage harness routing.
• Collaborate cross‑functionally with electrical and software teams in a fast‑paced environment.

Qualifications & Skills

• 3+ years of mechanical engineering experience with a focus on design and assembly.
• BS, MS, or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical field.
• Proficiency in CAD tools such as Solidworks, OnShape, or Catia.
• Expertise in PCBA integration, CNC machining, sheet metal, and 3D printing.

Preferred Experience

• Prior experience with robotics, UAVs, or defense hardware systems.
• Background in mechatronics and sensor integration.

Location

Pittsburgh, PA