Mechanical Engineer I: UAV Systems Design & Prototyping

avav; Moorpark (CA); On-site; USD 67,000 - 102,000; Full time

Job summary

AeroVironment, Inc. in Moorpark, CA, is seeking a Mechanical Engineer I to join the design team developing next‑gen UAV systems and subsystems.

You will contribute to conceptual clear through detailed design, build and test hardware, and collaborate across engineering disciplines using CAD/SolidWorks and simulation tools. The role emphasizes hands‑on prototyping, fabrication drawings, BOMs, and participation in design reviews, with a focus on lightweight mechanical systems and thermodynamic

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering is required or equivalent combination of education, training, and experience
• 0-2 years of experience designing complex mechanical systems with demonstrated transition to hardware
• Experience in designing the following types of parts: machined parts, simple composite parts, plastic injection molded parts, sheet metal parts, wire assemblies, mechanical assemblies
• Hands‑on building/prototyping experience as it pertains to lightweight miniature robotic systems or similar
• Experience designing electro‑mechanical systems with thermodynamic constraints
• Demonstrated competence in mechanical engineering process and design/analysis tools
• Proven experience in creating engineering drawings in compliance with ASME Y14.100 Engineering Drawing Practices, Y14.5 Dimensioning and Tolerancing, and other applicable ASME Y14 series standards.
• Proficient at SolidWorksas well as office software such as MS Office

Responsibilities

• Designs structural components, electro‑mechanical design, payload mechanical design, ground equipment mechanical design, launching systems, flight control actuators integration, thermal analysis, prototype hardware development, tooling & fixtures design
• Design work shall be accomplished using CAD tools (SolidWorks), simulation tools (SolidWorks Simulation, ANSYS), and rapid prototyping techniques (3D printing, etc.)
• Other duties include: developing manufacturing drawings and bills of materials for components and assemblies using industry drafting standards, supporting design reviews, assisting project managers with the planning and scheduling of engineering work, and supporting manufacturing & suppliers with the production of components & assemblies
• Other duties as assigned

Skills

Mechanical design

Electro‑mechanical design

Thermal analysis

Prototyping

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

SolidWorks Simulation

ANSYS

SolidWorks EPDM

Job description

AeroVironment, Inc. in Moorpark, CA, is seeking a Mechanical Engineer I to join the design team developing next‑gen UAV systems and subsystems.

You will contribute to conceptual clear through detailed design, build and test hardware, and collaborate across engineering disciplines using CAD/SolidWorks and simulation tools. The role emphasizes hands‑on prototyping, fabrication drawings, BOMs, and participation in design reviews, with a focus on lightweight mechanical systems and thermodynamic