Principal Mechanical Engineer, Drones

This Principal Mechanical Engineer role at BRINC involves leading the design, prototyping, and testing of precision mechanical systems for drones used in public safety. The engineer will own hardware development from concept to manufacturing, collaborate with cross-functional teams, and provide technical mentorship. The role focuses on creating lightweight, high-performance mechanisms for safety-critical drone operations.

Responsibilities

• Own hardware development from start to finish - from specification to design, prototype, testing and manufacturing.
• Work collaboratively with software, electrical, perception, controls, and manufacturing engineers.
• Design both flight hardware and test setups to validate designs.
• Establish top-level design architectures and implementation methodologies for the team.Clearly communicate design decisions with internal stakeholders.
• Perform and document design analysis and testing results; make data-driven decisions to land key product features.
• Work closely with Industrial Design partners to ensure the final product meets design intent and customer needs.
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to the broader mechanical engineering team.

Requirements

• 8+ years of industry experience in mechanical engineering or product design, with a strong focus on the design, analysis, and development of mechanical systems and precision mechanisms, such as linkages, gears, cams, and actuators, including experience in motion control, load analysis, and kinematic design.
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related
• Experience working in fast-paced technical environment where rapid development and safety are key
• Strong knowledge of DFM (Design for Manufacturability), DFA (for Assembly), and DFT (for Test)
• Experience with statistical tolerance analysis, dimensioning, GD&T
• Experience with industry standard 3D CAD modeling tool suites
• Working knowledge in material properties - plastics, metals, adhesives, and glass
• Working knowledge of manufacturing techniques - stamping, machining, 3D printing, injection modeling

Nice to have

• 10+ experience designing mechanical solutions for Aerospace, Robotics, Automotive, Consumer Electronics, or related industries
• Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering or related degree
• Experience working with domestic and international supply chain partners
• In-depth understanding of packaging for electronics, designing for high-stress shock & vibe environments; experience with failure analysis and FEA (Finite Element Analysis)
• Strong knowledge of motor types (DC, stepper, brushless, servo) and motor drive systems, including speed controllers and feedback mechanisms. Experience in motor selection, control (PWM, PID), and integration for high-performance, precision applications.
• Ability to work effectively in a dynamic environment with changing needs and requirements
• Ability to work independently and in a small team, take initiative, and communicate effectively
• Experience developing mechanical solutions for UAV/UAS used in commercial, industrial, or defense applications

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental and vision plans for our employees and their families
• 401K plan
• Maternity and paternity leave
• Flexible Time Off (Exempt) / Paid time off (Non-Exempt)
• Flexible work environment
• Orca pass (for those in Puget Sound)
• Free parking (Seattle office)
• Free snacks, drinks and espresso (Seattle office)