Mechanical Engineer III/IV

Zone5Technologies; Fort Worth (TX); On-site; USD 109,000 - 165,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive total compensation package

401k with company-match

4 weeks of paid time off each year

Job summary

Zone5Technologies in Fort Worth, Texas is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineer to design and optimize mechanical systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The role focuses on creating innovative components, ensuring performance, and compliance with industry standards.

Applicants should have a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering and 3–7 years of relevant experience. The position offers a competitive salary ranging from $109,000 to $165,000 based on experience and skills.

Qualifications

• 3–7+ years of experience in engineering roles.
• Understanding UAV manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components and systems for UAVs.
• Conduct stress, strain, and fatigue analysis on UAV structures.
• Build and test UAV prototypes to ensure mechanical reliability.

Skills

Proficiency in CAD and mechanical design software (e.g., SolidWorks)

Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T)

Experience with finite element analysis (FEA)

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Some experience in project management

Education

Bachelor’s in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Job description

About Zone 5 Technologies

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting‑edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology, solving complex challenges that matter.

We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next‑generation flight systems, you belong here.

Mechanical Engineer – Unmanned Aircraft Systems

We’re looking for an experienced Mechanical Engineer for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) to design, develop, and optimize mechanical systems for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other aerospace applications. The role focuses on creating innovative and reliable mechanical components for UAVs, ensuring their structural integrity, performance, and compliance with industry standards. The engineer will work with cross‑functional teams to advance UAS technologies in sectors such as defense, commercial aviation, and space exploration.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical components and systems for UAVs and other aerospace vehicles, including airframes, propulsion systems, control surfaces, landing gears, and payload integration.
• Build and test UAV prototypes to ensure mechanical reliability and performance, including ground and flight tests to validate designs.
• Conduct stress, strain, and fatigue analysis on UAV structures and systems to ensure they can withstand operational conditions such as high speeds, altitudes, and varying temperatures.
• Design and analyze thermal systems to manage heat dissipation, especially for high‑performance UAVs and aerospace applications.
• Collaborate with electrical, avionics, and software engineers to integrate mechanical systems with sensors, communication, and control systems in unmanned aircraft.
• Evaluate and select lightweight, high‑performance materials for UAVs, optimizing for fuel efficiency, durability, and strength.
• Perform root cause analysis on mechanical system failures and develop solutions to enhance the safety and performance of UAVs.
• Develop guidelines for the inspection, maintenance, and repair of UAV mechanical systems to ensure long‑term operational efficiency.
• Ensure all designs meet relevant UAS regulations and industry standards.
• Engage in R&D for cutting‑edge UAS technologies, including autonomous systems, additive manufacturing, and advanced composite materials.
• Create detailed reports, design specifications, maintenance manuals, and testing documentation for UAS mechanical systems.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering degree or equivalent experience.
• Experience: 3–7+ years of experience in engineering roles.

Skills

• Proficiency in CAD and mechanical design software (e.g., SolidWorks)
• Knowledge of geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and drafting
• Experience with design for manufacturability (DFMA) and tooling design
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and other simulation tools
• Knowledge of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, structural mechanics, and aerodynamics
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving skills, and ability to mentor
• Some experience in project management skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in CAD primarily for aerospace and UAS applications
• Proficiency in detailed design including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and drafting.
• Understanding of UAV manufacturing processes, including 3D printing and advanced composite materials.
• Familiarity with UAV‑specific regulations and broader aerospace certification processes (e.g., DO‑160, AS9100).
• Strong project management skills

Pay Range by Level for Dallas/Fort Worth, TX

Level III – $109,000 – $137,000
Level IV – $137,000 – $165,000

Benefits

• Competitive total compensation package
• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
• 401k with company‑match
• 4 weeks of paid time off each year
• 12 annual company holidays

EEO Statement

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire. Zone 5 Technologies is a federal contractor and participates in E‑Verify to confirm employment eligibility. As required by law, we will verify the identity and employment authorization of all new employees using the E‑Verify system. Learn more about your rights and responsibilities under E‑Verify: https://www.e-verify.gov.