Propulsion Mechanical Design Lead

machindustries.com; Huntington Beach (CA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative defense manufacturing company is seeking a Propulsion Mechanical Design Lead to drive the development of advanced small engine systems. In this pivotal role, you will oversee the mechanical design function, ensuring the creation of reliable and efficient propulsion systems that meet the demands of modern warfare. Join a dynamic team dedicated to pioneering scalable technologies that enhance national security. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the future of defense and work on cutting-edge projects that make a real impact. If you are ready to tackle complex engineering challenges, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 10+ years in mechanical engineering with a focus on engine systems.
• Strong expertise in CAD tools and engineering analysis tools.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design of high-performance propulsion systems.
• Develop and coordinate engine parts and systems for testing.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

CAD Tools (NX, SolidWorks)

Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing

Structural Design Principles

Materials Science

Prototyping and Testing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

FEA Tools

CFD Tools

Job description

Mach is a defense manufacturing company that builds munitions to help the United States win future wars. Backed by $85M in funding from top venture firms, our small lean team ideates, designs, manufactures, and sells cutting-edge weapons to the Department of Defense.

About Mach Propulsion
Mach Propulsion is redefining the small turbine engine—designing for high-rate production, scalability, modularity, and adaptability to help the United States maintain its edge in a rapidly evolving defense landscape. This is a chance to shape a new kind of propulsion company, one built around modern, automated manufacturing to deliver capable engines at meaningful volumes.

We are seeking a Propulsion Mechanical Design Lead to support the design and development of advanced small engine systems for the next generation of airborne defense platforms. As the Propulsion Mechanical Design Lead, you will oversee the mechanical design function, driving the creation of high-performance, manufacturable propulsion systems that meet the rigorous demands of modern warfare. Your expertise will ensure our engines deliver unmatched reliability, efficiency, and scalability, providing the United States with a decisive technological advantage.

Responsibilities

• Build out the team and team capability to create class-leading engines.
• Establish the baseline standard for design, review, and release.
• Develop and coordinate the development of engine parts, systems, and test equipment to revolutionize the next generation of small turbine engines.
• Perform basic structural and geometric analysis to ensure minimum part weight/volume while maintaining sufficient design margin, manufacturing capability, and ease of assembly.
• Assist in assembly, integration, and testing activities for first articles and first flight assets.
• Research emerging materials and manufacturing processes to continuously improve system performance, throughput, and cost.
• Oversee and coach team members to assure the quality of work is met and proper documentation of technical data is generated consistent with engineering best practices.
• Work with suppliers to procure hardware and resolve producibility and quality issues.

Basic Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on engine systems, drivetrain, or complex mechanical systems.
• Strong expertise in CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks) and experience with engineering analysis tools (e.g., FEA, CFD).
• Expert in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing, with a desire to build and coach design standards.
• Strong understanding of structural design principles, materials science, and manufacturing processes.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and iteration of mechanical systems.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience designing propulsion systems for unmanned systems, aerospace applications, or defense platforms.
• Familiarity with defense industry standards, including manufacturability and quality assurance requirements.
• Expertise in lightweight design optimization and advanced materials for high-performance engines.
• Hands-on experience with turbine engine development, including assembly, integration, and flight testing.
• Knowledge of automated manufacturing processes and their application to scalable engine production.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment.

Why Mach Industries?
At Mach Industries, we are pioneering the future of defense through scalable, decentralized technologies. You’ll be part of a small, dynamic team tackling some of the hardest engineering problems in modern warfare. Your work will directly contribute to building propulsion systems that power the next generation of autonomous platforms, ensuring global stability and preparedness through innovative, manufacturable designs.

Join us in shaping the future of warfare and securing the American way of life.

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!