The Mechanical Design Engineer is responsible for the design, development, and integration of aerospace mechanical components and assemblies, including brackets, housings, mechanisms, enclosures, and load-bearing structures. This mid-level role requires a strong understanding of mechanical design principles, CAD modeling, GD&T, and design for manufacturability. The engineer will own projects or subsystems, interface cross-functionally, and contribute to design reviews and product lifecycle documentation for aircraft, spacecraft, or defense platforms.
Key Responsibilities:
Design mechanical components and assemblies from concept to production using advanced CAD modeling tools (e.g., Creo, CATIA, NX)
Generate detailed engineering drawings with GD&T per ASME Y14.5 and apply tolerance analysis techniques
Perform basic hand calculations, FEA (with support), and trade studies to guide design decisions
Create and maintain BOMs, interface control documents, and engineering change orders
Ensure designs meet aerospace performance requirements (weight, strength, thermal, vibration, etc.) and system constraints
Collaborate with systems, electrical, thermal, and manufacturing engineers to ensure seamless integration
Support prototyping, manufacturing reviews, and supplier communication for build feasibility
Participate in formal design reviews (PDR, CDR) and document technical decisions and rationale
Support environmental, structural, or functional testing, and incorporate test feedback into redesigns
Contribute to DFM/DFA, cost reduction, and quality improvement initiatives
Key Focus Areas:
Mechanical design and integration of aerospace subsystems (e.g., enclosures, brackets, linkages, actuators)
Design ownership of components or subassemblies within cross-functional teams
CAD modeling, technical documentation, and engineering review participation
Collaboration with suppliers and internal stakeholders to deliver manufacturable designs
Mid-level technical execution and mentorship of junior engineers
Qualifications & Skills:
Education:
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related field (required)
Master’s degree preferred but not required
Certifications:
(Not required but advantageous)
GD&T certification (ASME Y14.5)
CAD software certification (Creo, NX, or CATIA)
Six Sigma or DFSS training a plus
Experience:
3–7 years of mechanical design experience in aerospace, defense, automotive, or high-precision mechanical industries
Demonstrated experience owning component-level designs from concept through release
Familiarity with aerospace materials (aluminum, titanium, composites) and fastening/joining techniques
Experience working with PLM/PDM systems (Windchill, Teamcenter, etc.) and ECN processes
Technical Skills:
Proficient in 3D CAD modeling (Creo, NX, CATIA, or SolidWorks) and drawing creation
Strong understanding of mechanical interfaces, tolerancing, fit/function, and design principles
Working knowledge of FEA fundamentals and experience reviewing structural or thermal analyses
Comfortable interpreting system-level requirements and cascading them to component designs
Soft Skills:
Strong technical communication and documentation skills
Self-directed and accountable with solid problem-solving skills
Ability to collaborate in cross-functional teams and adapt to changing project needs
Takes initiative to improve designs and processes within defined scope