Senior Mechanical Engineer - Autonomous Drones

Peskind Executive Search; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A technology development firm in Houston is seeking a talented Mechanical Engineer to design and manufacture prototypes for autonomous drones. Responsibilities include developing detailed mechanical designs, performing analysis, and collaborating with cross-functional teams. The ideal candidate has a Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering and 3+ years' experience in the drone industry.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in the drone industry.
• Practical understanding of thermodynamics, engineering materials, kinematics, and stress analysis.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials.

Responsibilities

• Design and manufacture prototypes for a drone onboard compute enclosure.
• Develop detailed mechanical designs for UAVs.
• Perform stress, thermal, and vibration analysis.

Skills

Mechanical design

Collaboration

Problem-solving

Attention to detail

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Autodesk Inventor

Job description

Our client is on a mission to deploy autonomous drones to 911 calls. By leveraging the latest LTE-enabled drone technology, they enable first responders to increase situational awareness, operate more effectively, and save lives. They are seeking a talented Mechanical Engineer to join their team. This role involves designing, prototyping, and manufacturing cutting-edge drone technology.

Responsibilities

• Design and manufacture prototypes for a drone onboard compute enclosure.
• Develop detailed mechanical designs for UAVs, including airframes, propulsion systems, and payload integration.
• Identify and select materials to optimize performance, weight, and durability.
• Evaluate and integrate components such as motors, propellers, batteries, and sensors.
• Perform stress, thermal, and vibration analysis to ensure structural integrity.
• Revise existing mechanical components and assemblies.
• Build and assemble prototypes using manufacturing techniques such as CNC machining, 3D printing, and composite layups.
• Collaborate with technicians and suppliers to ensure quality fabrication.
• Create detailed design documentation, including drawings, specifications, and technical reports.
• Develop and execute testing plans to validate designs and ensure compliance with regulations.
• Work closely with electrical, software, and systems engineers to integrate all drone components seamlessly.
• Liaise with customers or stakeholders to meet application-specific requirements.
• Stay updated on emerging drone regulations and technologies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in the drone industry.
• Practical understanding of thermodynamics/heat transfer, engineering materials, kinematics, and stress analysis.
• High proficiency in CAD software, such as SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor, including FEA proficiency.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials.
• Experience designing reliable, maintainable, manufacturable, and usable products.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills.