Mechanical Engineer III​/IV

Overview

Fort Walton Beach, Florida, United States

At Zone 5 Technologies, we're redefining what's possible in unmanned aircraft systems. Our team of engineers and innovators is developing cutting-edge autonomous solutions that push the boundaries of UAS technology – solving complex challenges that matter. We're building the future of UAS capabilities, and we're looking for exceptional talent to join us. If you're driven by hard problems, energized by rapid innovation, and ready to make an impact on next-generation flight systems, you belong here.

We are looking for an experienced Mechanical Engineer responsible for the design, development, modification, and optimization of mechanical systems for a variety of weapon systems and other aerospace applications. This role focuses on creating innovative and reliable mechanical designs and components while ensuring their structural integrity, performance, and compliance with industry standards. The engineer will work with cross-functional teams to advance technologies in sectors such as defense, commercial aviation, and space exploration.

• Design and Development:
  Design mechanical components and systems for UAS, weapon systems, and other aerospace vehicles, including airframes, propulsion systems, control surfaces, landing gears, and payload integration.
• Prototyping and Testing:
  Build and test prototypes to ensure mechanical reliability and performance, including ground and flight tests to validate designs.
• Structural Analysis:
  Conduct stress, strain, and fatigue analysis on structures and systems to ensure they can withstand operational conditions such as high speeds, altitudes, and varying temperatures.
• Thermal Management:
  Design and analyze thermal systems to manage heat dissipation, especially for high-performance aerospace applications.
• System Integration:
  Collaborate with electrical, avionics, and software engineers to integrate mechanical systems with sensors, communication, and control systems in unmanned aircraft.
• Material Selection:
  Evaluate and select lightweight, high-performance materials, optimizing for fuel efficiency, durability, and strength.
• Failure Analysis:
  Perform root cause analysis on mechanical system failures and develop solutions to enhance the safety and performance.
• UAV Maintenance and Repair Procedures:
  Develop guidelines for the inspection, maintenance, and repair of mechanical systems to ensure long-term operational efficiency.
• Regulatory Compliance:
  Ensure all designs meet relevant regulations and industry standards.
• Engage in R&D for cutting-edge unmanned technologies, including autonomous systems, additive manufacturing, and advanced composite materials.
• Documentation:
  Create detailed reports, design specifications, maintenance manuals, and testing documentation for mechanical systems.

• Education:
  
  Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Experience:
  
  3-7 years of experience in aerospace mechanical systems, including 2+ years working on unmanned aircraft, weapon systems, or other relevant systems.

• Proficiency in CAD and mechanical design software (e.g., Solid Works) for aerospace applications.
• Proficiency in detailed design including geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and drafting.
• Experience with design for manufacturability (DFM) and tooling design.
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and other simulation tools.
• Strong knowledge of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, structural mechanics, and aerodynamics.
• Understanding of aerospace manufacturing processes, including 3D printing and advanced composite materials.
• Familiarity with UAV-specific regulations and broader aerospace certification processes (e.g., DO-160, AS9100).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and project management skills.

Pay range for this role: $115,000 - $150,000 USD

• Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
• 401k with company-match
• 4 weeks of paid time off each year
• 12 annual company holidays

• Innovative Environment:
  Work on…