Mechanical Engineer V/VI

Zone5Technologies; San Luis Obispo (CA); On-site; USD 182,000 - 238,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive total compensation package

Comprehensive medical, dental, vision, and life options

401k with company match

4 weeks of paid time off each year

12 annual company holidays

Job summary

Zone 5 Technologies in San Luis Obispo, California is seeking a Mechanical Engineer V/VI to enhance our unmanned aircraft systems. The role entails leadership in the design and development of mechanical systems, focusing on UAV technology, collaboration across disciplines, mentorship of engineers, and compliance with regulations.

With a strong emphasis on innovation, the successful candidate will engage in advanced projects and contribute to significant breakthroughs in UAS capabilities. Candidates with a robust engineering background and passion for UAV technology are encouraged to apply.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in engineering roles.
• More than 5 years dedicated to UAV development.

Responsibilities

• Lead design of complex mechanical systems for UAVs including airframes and propulsion systems.
• Oversee development and testing of UAV prototypes.
• Conduct and review in-depth stress, strain, and fatigue analysis.
• Develop innovative thermal systems for high-performance UAVs.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams for system integration.
• Research advanced materials for UAV applications.
• Lead root cause analysis and propose impactful solutions.
• Ensure designs meet UAS regulations and industry certifications.
• Spearhead R&D initiatives for advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers.

Skills

Advanced 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 advanced simulation tools

Experience in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, structural mechanics, and aerodynamics

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills

Proven ability to drive innovation and manage complex engineering projects

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or equivalent experience

Tools

SolidWorks

ANSYS or similar FEA tools

CFD Simulation Tools

Job description

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.

We're looking for a Mechanical Engineer V/VI for Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) which is a senior‑level role responsible for leading the design, development, and implementation of advanced mechanical systems for UAVs. This position involves strategic oversight, innovative problem‑solving, and mentorship of junior engineers. Engineers in this role will contribute to cutting‑edge advancements in UAS technologies, driving innovation in areas such as autonomous systems, additive manufacturing, and aerospace materials.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Design Leadership: Lead the design of complex mechanical systems for UAVs, including advanced airframes, propulsion systems, and payload integration.
• Advanced Prototyping and Testing: Oversee the development and testing of UAV prototypes, ensuring compliance with performance and reliability goals.
• Comprehensive Structural Analysis: Conduct and review in-depth stress, strain, and fatigue analysis for UAV mechanical systems operating under extreme conditions.
• Thermal Management Expertise: Develop and implement innovative thermal systems for high‑performance UAVs.
• Cross‑Functional Integration: Lead collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to integrate mechanical systems with avionics, sensors, and software controls.
• Material Innovation: Drive research and development of advanced materials for UAV applications, focusing on composites and lightweight alloys.
• Failure Analysis and Solutions: Lead root cause analysis of mechanical failures and propose long‑term, impactful solutions.
• Regulatory Compliance Leadership: Ensure all designs meet and exceed UAS regulations and industry certifications.
• Research and Development: Spearhead R&D initiatives to advance UAS technologies, including autonomous navigation and advanced manufacturing techniques.
• Mentorship and Leadership: Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior and mid‑level engineers, fostering professional growth within the team.
• Documentation and Reporting: Author comprehensive technical documentation, including design reviews, test reports, and compliance certifications.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s, Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering degree or equivalent experience.
• Experience: 10+ years of experience in engineering roles.

Skills

• Advanced 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 advanced simulation tools
• Experience in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, structural mechanics, and aerodynamics
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving skills, and ability to mentor
• Proven ability to drive innovation and manage complex engineering projects

Preferred Qualifications

• More than 5 years dedicated to UAV development
• Advanced proficiency in CAD primarily for aerospace and UAS applications
• Experience with advanced simulation tools (e.g. FEA, CFD)
• Expertise in structural mechanics, aerodynamics, thermodynamics
• In‑depth knowledge of UAV manufacturing processes, including 3D printing and advanced composite materials.
• Familiarity with advanced UAV‑specific regulations and broader aerospace certification processes (e.g., DO‑160, AS9100).

Pay Range

Level V – $182k – $212k

Level VI – $212k – $238k

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

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

• Innovative Environment: Work on cutting‑edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
• Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team!

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.