Senior Mechanical Engineer

Out in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics; Sterling (VA); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and 401k

Discretionary paid time off

Paid parental leave

Medical, Dental, Vision plans

Fitness Programs

Learning & Development programs

Job summary

Axon is seeking a Sr. Mechanical Engineer in Sterling, VA. In this role, you'll drive innovative product development for cutting-edge cUAS technology, ensuring designs meet durability and reliability standards.

Your responsibilities will include collaborating with cross-functional teams and managing mechanical design from conceptualization through production. The ideal candidate has expertise in CAD modeling, hands-on prototyping, and system integration. Axon offers a hybrid work schedule and a competitive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in mechanical design and system integration.
• Knowledge of embedded systems and microcontrollers.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.

Responsibilities

• Drive product development from conceptualization to manufacturing.
• Construct and analyze high fidelity proof-of-concept prototypes.
• Perform detailed mechanical analysis for proper function.

Skills

Mechanical design

CAD modeling

Hands-on prototyping

Thermal analysis

System integration

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Fusion 360

Prototyping tools (drills, bandsaws, 3D printers)

Job description

Join Axon and be a Force for Good.

At Axon, we’re on a mission to Protect Life. We’re explorers, pursuing society’s most critical safety and justice issues with our ecosystem of devices and cloud software. Like our products, we work better together. We connect with candor and care, seeking out diverse perspectives from our customers, communities and each other. Life at Axon is fast‑paced, challenging and meaningful. Here, you’ll take ownership and drive real change. Constantly grow as you work hard for a mission that matters at a company where you matter.

Your Impact

Dedrone stands out as the global leader in airspace defense technology and counter UAS solutions. Engineering at Dedrone is tasked with delivering innovative solutions and products to maintain our position on the cutting‑edge of innovation. Sr. Mechanical Engineers at Dedrone have full design ownership over next generation cUAS technology from conceptualization through production, whose work is highly visible to even the most senior executives. Our passionate leadership and cross‑functional collaboration with product managers, electrical engineers, industrial designers, and manufacturing teams is vital to the success of the team and ensuring the safety of the general public for generations to come. This role emphasizes mechanical design, thermal analysis, prototyping, and system integration. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in CAD modeling, structural optimization, and hands‑on prototyping, with a focus on creating durable and high‑performance designs for diverse operational environments.

Location: Onsite at our offices in Sterling, VA

What You’ll Do

• Drive innovative product development from conceptualization through manufacturing, ensuring designs meet durability and reliability standards.
• Utilize creative problem solving skills to lead ideation of new product architectural concepts for subsystem and system level designs
• Construct and analyze high fidelity proof‑of‑concept prototypes
• Perform detailed mechanical analysis to ensure proper function through FEA, tolerance analysis, testing, and other exploratory means
• Collaborate regularly with both domestic and international stakeholders
• Work autonomously and collaboratively in an empowering and fast‑paced environment
• Hone your engineering expertise in a dynamic learning environment focused on personal and professional development
• Rigorously document and manage design specifications, production processes, and compliance requirements.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Proven experience in mechanical design and system integration, preferably in industries involving advanced hardware systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Fusion 360) for 3D modeling and detailed engineering drawings.
• Hands‑on experience with prototyping tools and fabrication equipment (e.g., drills, bandsaws, 3D printers).
• Knowledge of embedded systems, microcontrollers (e.g., ESP32, Arduino), and single‑board computers (e.g., Raspberry Pi).
• Strong understanding of engineering principles, including heat transfer, EMI, and shock/vibration.
• Experience with simulation tools for thermal and structural analysis.
• Familiarity with MIL STDs and designing for harsh environments.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities to identify and resolve technical challenges.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively collaborate with cross‑functional teams and present complex ideas.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment with high levels of ambiguity.

Work Location

This role is based out of either our Sterling, VA office, and follows a hybrid schedule. We rely on in‑person collaboration and ask that team members work onsite Tuesdays through Fridays, with the flexibility to work remotely on Mondays, unless there is an approved workplace accommodation. We believe that connection fuels innovation, and our in‑office culture is designed to foster meaningful teamwork, mentorship, and shared success.

Benefits that Benefit You

• Competitive salary and 401k with employer match
• Discretionary paid time off
• Paid parental leave for all
• Medical, Dental, Vision plans
• Fitness Programs
• Emotional & Mental Wellness support
• Learning & Development programs
• And yes, we have snacks in our offices

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are an equal opportunity employer that promotes justice, advances equity, values diversity, and fosters inclusion. We’re committed to hiring the best talent—regardless of race, creed, color, ancestry, religion, sex (including pregnancy), national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship status, marital status, disability, gender identity, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances—and empowering all of our employees so they can do their best work. If you have a disability or special need that requires assistance or accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please email [e-mail]. Please note that this email address is for accommodation purposes only. Axon will not respond to inquiries for other purposes.

Some roles may also require legal eligibility to work in a firearms environment.