Engineer II, Mechanical Test (R4935)

This role is for a Structures/Mechanical Test Engineer to support the development, testing, and validation of advanced mechanical systems for the Launch and Recovery Vehicle. The engineer will develop and execute test plans, design and operate test fixtures, integrate sensors, and analyze data to ensure structural integrity and mission-readiness. The role involves collaboration with cross-functional teams and leading CAD design of custom test equipment.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute test plans to validate mechanical performance, structural integrity, and environmental durability from start to finish.
• Design, build, and operate test fixtures and systems involving hydraulic actuation, mechanical linkages, and sensor instrumentation.
• Integrate and calibrate a range of sensors (e.g., load cells, pressure transducers, strain gauges, accelerometers) into test setups for accurate data collection.
• Create and maintain python scripts to provide automation, signal processing, and result visualization.
• Analyze test data, troubleshoot system behaviors, and generate technical reports with design feedback.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical design, systems, and electrical engineering to define test requirements, run test campaigns and deliver high quality results.
• Lead CAD design of custom test equipment, prototypes, fixtures, and components, ensuring manufacturability and safety.
• Perform Finite Element Analysis to simulate mechanical performance, validate design assumptions, and correlate analytical results with test data.
• Work with metallic/composite materials in the design, fabrication, and testing of mechanical components, with consideration for their unique properties such as anisotropy, delamination risk, and layup configuration.
• Support lab safety protocols, equipment maintenance, and improvement of test capabilities.

Requirements

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline.
• 2+ years of professional experience in mechanical/fluids testing
• Understanding of heat transfer (conduction, convection, radiation) and fluid mechanics.
• Experienced with active and passive cooling solutions and their integration at component and system level.
• Proficiency with mechanical testing of large structures and ground vehicles
• Experience with CAD design tools such as NX, SolidWorks, or similar.
• Demonstrated experience applying first-principles reasoning to complex engineering problems.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to learn and adapt quickly to new tools, processes, and technical challenges in a fast paced, startup environment.
• Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Nice to have

• Experience with UAVs, aircraft, or robotic systems for large ground vehicles
• Hands-on experience performing MIL-STD testing (e.g., MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-461) including vibration, shock, thermal, and EMI/EMC testing.
• Subject Matter Expert in aerospace structures and dynamics test environments.
• Familiarity with electro-mechanical actuators
• Hands-on machine shop or mechanic experience (professional or hobby)
• Ability to thrive in startup, R&D, or defense innovation environments

Benefits

• Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
• Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)