Mechanical Engineer

Overview

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are expanding into Denver, creating a new center of engineering excellence to design and industrially produce these systems, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator.

• Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies with increasing ownership and independence.
• Produce accurate 3D CAD models, GD&T‑annotated drawings, and BOMs in Solid Works.
• Apply DFM and DFA principles to ensure designs are manufacturable and scalable.
• Participate in and contribute to design reviews, prototype builds, and validation testing.
• Identify and resolve hardware issues through structured root cause analysis.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams including manufacturing, electrical, and product to deliver well‑integrated designs.
• Maintain engineering documentation including ECOs, test reports, and design rationale.
• Begin taking end‑to‑end ownership of well‑scoped mechanical problems.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, with 3+ years of professional mechanical design experience.
• Solid 3D CAD skills in Solid Works, with professional experience producing production‑ready models and drawings.
• Working knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards.
• Hands‑on experience with common manufacturing processes including sheet metal, injection molding, or CNC machining.
• Familiarity with DFM/DFA/DFT principles and experience applying them in a professional context.
• Good written and verbal communication skills with ability to collaborate across disciplines.

• Experience with FEA or CFD tools for structural or thermal analysis.
• Background or personal interest in UAVs, robotics, or aerospace systems.
• Exposure to electromechanical co‑design and integration with PCBs or wire harnesses.
• Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems and formal ECO processes.
• Experience with advanced materials such as carbon‑fiber composites or additive manufacturing.

Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift/carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard machine shop equipment and standard office equipment. Must be physically capable of tolerating loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE).

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. It requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may involve exposure to loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE) and occasional travel to test sites, customer locations, or supplier facilities. It may also involve outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non‑climate‑controlled environments.

In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3).

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid parental leave.
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non‑discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

90, USD per year (DF02)