Mechanical Engineer (Ground Systems)

About Mach IndustriesFounded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 180 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The RoleThe Mechanical Engineer (Ground Systems Equipment) will play a critical role in designing, developing, and optimizing packaging equipment for our missile systems. You will be responsible for creating robust, reliable, and efficient mechanical systems that ensure the safe transport, storage, and deployment of advanced defense technologies. This role demands technical excellence, creativity, and ownership, as you will work across the full design lifecycle to deliver mission-critical solutions in a fast-paced environment.

Key Responsibilities• Design, develop, and test ground equipment for missile systems, ensuring durability, reliability, and compliance with defense standards.

• Create detailed 3D models, engineering drawings, and specifications using CAD software (NX Preferred, other experience OK).

• Optimize designs for manufacturability, weight reduction, and environmental resilience, including shock, vibration, and thermal considerations.

• Collaborate with electrical engineers, software engineers, and manufacturing to ensure seamless integration of packaging equipment with missile systems.

• Perform structural, thermal, and dynamic analyses to validate designs under various operational and environmental conditions.

• Develop prototypes, conduct testing, and iterate designs to meet performance, reliability, and safety requirements.

• Troubleshoot and resolve mechanical design issues and see solutions through.

• Identify opportunities for innovation proposing designs that enhance system efficiency, modularity, cost, and scalability. Knowledge of existing commercial systems is a plus.

• Contribute to process development, effectively communicating technical challenges, risks, and solutions to cross-functional teams.

Required Qualifications• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., NX, CATIA, or equivalent) for designing complex mechanical systems.

• Experience designing mechanical systems or equipment for high-reliability applications, with a focus on structural integrity and environmental resilience.

• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, including statics, dynamics, materials science, and thermal management.

• Ability to execute in a fast-paced, high-iteration environment, delivering designs that meet tight timelines.

• Familiarity with the full design lifecycle, from concept and prototyping to testing, manufacturing, and deployment.

• Demonstrated extreme ownership and ability to drive projects to completion with minimal oversight.

• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and computational tools is a plus but absolutely must know how to do hand calculations and free body diagrams.

• Ability to work on-site in Huntington Beach, CA.

Preferred Qualifications• Significant experience designing reliable and robust ground equipment for defense, motorsport, and/or film industries.

• Expertise in designing for extreme environments, including shock, vibration, and temperature extremes.

• Hands-on experience with prototyping, testing, and validation of mechanical systems using tools like CNC machines, 3D printers, or environmental test chambers.

• Familiarity with defense industry standards (e.g., MIL-STD-810) for environmental and operational testing.

• Experience with materials selection for lightweight, high-strength applications, including composites and advanced alloys.

• Strong understanding of human factors and what leads to design that prevent errors.

• Knowledge of robotics and UAVS.

• Strong feel for and interest in industrial design.

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR).  Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!