Mechanical Engineer, Senior

Mechanical Engineer, Senior role at Allen Control Systems

Mechanical Design Engineer – Drone Defense Turret Systems

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting‑edge defense startup, founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.
Our engineering‑first culture values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders’ successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180 million in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop have a real‑world impact.

We are looking for a highly experienced Mechanical Designer with strong expertise in mechanical simulations and electromechanical integration. The ideal candidate will be well‑versed in designing for durability, reliability, and robustness according to MIL‑STD‑810 standards. You will play a critical role in ensuring our products meet stringent environmental, vibration, and shock requirements while also integrating complex electromechanical components into our systems.

• Design and develop mechanical systems that meet MIL‑STD‑810 specifications, ensuring robustness under vibration, shock, thermal, and environmental conditions.
• Perform mechanical simulations (FEA, modal, vibration, thermal) to assess the durability and reliability of designs under operational stress.
• Collaborate with electrical and systems engineers to integrate electromechanical components, ensuring seamless interaction between mechanical structures and electrical systems.
• Lead structural integrity testing and analysis, ensuring designs meet environmental test criteria for military‑grade systems.
• Develop and document mechanical design specifications, including detailed drawings, simulation reports, and testing protocols.
• Conduct testing and validation to ensure that mechanical designs meet the required performance and safety standards.
• Support prototype development and work closely with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are feasible and cost‑effective.
• Maintain a strong focus on product quality, safety, and reliability, adhering to Design for Manufacturing and Design for Reliability best practices.
• Contribute to cross‑functional design reviews, identifying potential mechanical and electromechanical risks early in the development cycle.

• A passion for designing robust mechanical systems that can operate in harsh environments.
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical design, including expertise in electromechanical integration.
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Experience working with robotics or in a robotic lab.
• Research and development experience.
• Hands‑on experience performing structural, vibration, and thermal simulations using tools such as ANSYS, Solid Works (preferred).
• Proficient in 3D CAD software such as Solid Works (preferred), CATIA, or Creo.
• Strong understanding of MIL‑STD‑810 requirements for mechanical durability, including vibration, shock, temperature, and humidity testing.
• Skilled in electromechanical integration, ensuring compatibility between mechanical structures and electrical components (e.g., wiring harnesses, sensors, actuators).
• Experience conducting Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Modal Analysis, and Thermal Analysis.
• Collaborate effectively with electrical, software, and systems engineers to develop integrated solutions.
• Familiar with Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Reliability (DFR) principles.

• Direct experience working with MIL‑STD‑810 (e.g., vibration, temperature, and shock tests).
• Knowledge of MIL‑S‑901D for naval shock testing and MIL‑STD‑461 for EMI/EMC standards.
• Familiarity with Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) considerations in mechanical design.
• Experience in rapid prototyping and additive…