Mechanical Engineer – Defense Systems & Advanced Prototyping

Ph.D. Mechanical Engineer – Defense Systems & Advanced Prototyping

About the Role:

We are seeking a highly motivated Ph.D.

-level Mechanical Engineer focused on cutting-edge military and defense technologies. This role involves working on high-impact projects related to weapons systems, autonomous platforms, thermal management, high-performance materials, and advanced mechanical system design. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise, creativity, and the ability to operate in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment with both internal teams and government clients.

• Lead mechanical system design, analysis, and prototyping for advanced defense applications
• Conduct finite element analysis (FEA), dynamic modeling, and thermal/fluid simulations
• Collaborate on the development of novel materials, actuation systems, and energy-efficient designs
• Translate high-level requirements into feasible, manufacturable mechanical systems
• Author and present technical reports, white papers, and design documentation for stakeholders and government agencies
• Support proposal development and technical responses for DoD-funded projects (SBIR/STTR, DARPA, ONR, etc.)
• Ensure designs meet MIL-STD specifications and environmental requirements for military use
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to long-term technology strategy

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (e.g., Aerospace, Mechatronics)
• 10+ years of experience in a research or defense-oriented engineering role
• Strong background in structural mechanics, heat transfer, fluid dynamics, or system integration
• Proficiency with tools such as Solid Works, ANSYS, COMSOL, MATLAB, or similar
• Experience with defense projects (DoD, DARPA, NAVSEA, ARL, AFRL, etc.)
• Strong technical writing and communication skills

• Experience with additive manufacturing, composites, or micro-mechanical systems
• Knowledge of military standards (MIL-STD, MIL-SPEC)
• Hands-on prototyping, testing, or lab experience
• Familiarity with systems engineering practices and DoD acquisition lifecycle

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunities to work on next-generation defense technologies
• Collaborative team of experts across mechanical, electrical, and software domains
• Support for publications, patents, and conference presentations

Guild Associates is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all candidates for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.