The Engineering Manager – Mechanical Systems is responsible for leading the design, development, integration, and lifecycle support of critical mechanical subsystems including actuators, structural brackets, and fastening solutions. This role manages a team of engineers across multiple projects to ensure high-quality, cost-effective, and technically robust designs that meet system performance, manufacturing, and reliability requirements. The manager provides both technical direction and operational oversight, ensuring mechanical systems are delivered on time and aligned with program and product objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead mechanical engineering teams in the design and integration of actuation systems (electromechanical, hydraulic, or pneumatic), brackets, and fastening hardware for complex platforms
Oversee product development lifecycle from requirements capture and concept generation through detailed design, analysis, prototyping, testing, and release
Ensure mechanical systems meet structural, dynamic, thermal, and environmental performance specifications
Drive design for manufacturability (DFM), assembly (DFA), reliability, and cost optimization across all mechanical components
Collaborate with systems engineering, electrical engineering, materials, and manufacturing teams to ensure seamless subsystem integration
Support FMEA, DFMEA, and risk assessments for all critical mechanical components
Manage drawing release processes, GD&T standards, tolerance stack-ups, and configuration control
Lead and participate in design reviews (PDR, CDR), supplier technical reviews, and internal design audits
Develop and mentor engineering staff, promote knowledge sharing, and build technical depth across the team
Interface with suppliers for custom mechanical hardware, actuation components, and fasteners, including source qualification and performance verification
Track project schedules, resource allocation, technical risks, and design quality metrics
Key Focus Areas:
Design and integration of mechanical systems including motion components and structural mounting hardware
Leadership of mechanical design teams across concept, analysis, validation, and release
Development of actuators, hinges, clevis joints, fasteners, and custom mounting brackets
Cross-functional engineering collaboration to meet platform-level integration requirements
Technical governance: CAD standards, documentation control, and product data management
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Aerospace Engineering required
Master’s degree or specialization in Mechatronics, Robotics, or Mechanical Systems Engineering preferred
Certifications:
PE license or PMP certification is advantageous
Six Sigma or Design for Six Sigma (DFSS) certification a plus
Experience:
10–15+ years of mechanical engineering experience, with at least 5 years in a technical leadership or management role
Strong background in mechanical systems design, especially actuators, structural brackets, and aerospace-grade fasteners
Experience working in aerospace, defense, robotics, automotive, or industrial equipment industries
Hands-on involvement with actuator selection, torque/load calculations, structural supports, and kinematic interfaces
Proven track record leading mechanical teams through full product development cycles
Technical Skills:
Proficient in 3D CAD tools (e.g., CATIA, NX, Creo), GD&T (ASME Y14.5), and PDM systems (Teamcenter, Windchill)
Familiarity with FEA tools for structural validation (ANSYS, NASTRAN, etc.)
Knowledge of actuation principles, fastening strategies, material selection, and structural optimization
Understanding of aerospace standards and environmental test requirements (DO-160, MIL-STD, etc.)
Soft Skills:
Effective technical leader with strong communication and mentorship abilities
Results-driven and highly organized, capable of managing complex mechanical subsystems and distributed teams
Strong interpersonal skills and ability to lead cross-functional collaboration in high-stakes environments
Able to balance hands-on engineering with programmatic leadership and technical governance