Mechanical Systems Engineer

We are seeking a skilled Build Engineer to join our team. This role offers the chance to work on complex mechanical systems, collaborate with talented engineers, and contribute to the development of innovative technologies.

The ideal candidate will take ownership of building, assembling, and integrating custom mechanical systems from scratch. You will work hands-on to bring high-performance hardware to life, supporting the transition from prototype to production.

This is a great opportunity for individuals who thrive in ambiguity, can drive technically challenging projects with minimal oversight, and collaborate effectively across disciplines to deliver novel hardware solutions at scale.

The successful candidate will have strong mechanical fundamentals, a problem-solving mindset, and a passion for building and debugging complex mechanical systems.

• Assemble, integrate, and bring-up complex mechanical and electromechanical systems
• Develop and document scalable manufacturing and assembly procedures
• Collaborate with design and manufacturing engineers to optimize builds for performance, precision, and repeatability
• Provide real-world feedback to improve designs and make CAD modifications as needed
• Create and iterate on mechanical designs, including custom tooling, test fixtures, and build jigs
• Lead alignment, calibration, and precision tuning of mechanical systems
• Troubleshoot issues in mechanical and electromechanical subsystems with cross-functional teams
• Support the transition of systems from R&D to high-reliability production
• Conduct hands-on testing and validation of mechanical performance

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering from an ABET-accredited university
• Hands-on mechanical or build experience from internships or engineering clubs such as FSAE, Baja SAE, solar car, rocket club, robotics club, or similar
• Experience working with manual mills, lathes, and other machine shop tools
• Strong mechanical fundamentals and a problem-solving mindset
• Passion for building and debugging complex mechanical systems

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (Master's, PhD) in mechanical, aerospace, or manufacturing engineering
• Experience building engines, rockets, drones, robots, cars, or other mechanical systems from scratch
• Familiarity with CNC machining, welding, bonding, and fastening techniques
• Experience with tooling design, fixture development, or custom fabrication
• Understanding of DFM/DFA principles
• Experience with metal 3D printing
• Comfortable working in fast-paced, ambiguous environments and iterating quickly
• Strong communicator who collaborates across disciplines and proactively seeks support when needed
• Willing to take ownership of tasks big and small, with a hands-on, problem-solving mindset
• Strong work ethic with a refuse to fail mindset
• Demonstrated indicators of excellence and/or achieving success against adversity

Location:

• Our facility is located in Hawthorne, CA, featuring large open spaces for team collaboration, R&D, and production

What We Offer:

• Inclusive and diverse culture that values collaboration, learning, and making deliberate data-driven decisions
• Unique opportunity to be an early and integral member of a rapidly growing company
• Benefits
  • Significant stock option packages
  • 100% employer-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Traditional and Roth 401(k)
  • Relocation assistance provided
  • Paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays
  • Generous Paid Parental Leave and extended transition back to work for the birthing parent
  • Free daily catered lunch and dinner, and fully stocked kitchenette
  • Casual dress, flexible work hours, and regular catered team building events