Design Engineer, Special Projects

Overview

Hadrian is building autonomous factories that help aerospace and defense companies make rockets, jets, and satellites 10x faster and 2x cheaper. We are a lean yet mighty team (and growing!) of individuals who are passionate about building critical infrastructure to support the nation and advance humanity. We have raised >$200m to achieve this vision, with multiple rounds from Lux Capital, A16Z, Founders Fund, Construct Capital, Caffeinated Capital and more.

We utilize AI and Robotics to automate and scale factories that are globally cost-competitive and future-proof against the dramatic skilled labor shortage facing the Advanced Industrial Base. Hadrian works with startups, Primes, and Tier 1/2s in all markets to cost-down, scale, or otherwise enable them to achieve production rates on critical programs in Rocketry, Satellites, Shipbuilding, Commercial, and Military aircraft, as well as other core, mission-critical industries.

The role:

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented Design Engineer to join our Special Projects team. This is an ideal role for an early-career engineer eager to contribute to the development of next-generation maritime systems. You will play a key role in bringing innovative mechanical systems to life for advanced R+D, from initial concept through to production readiness.

• Support the design and development of maritime mechanical systems using modern engineering principles.
• Create and refine detailed 3D CAD models and assemblies.
• Generate comprehensive, manufacturing-ready technical documentation.
• Perform system-level analysis to meet performance and compliance specifications.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal engineering teams and external partners.

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Maritime Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related field.
• Demonstrated design and prototyping experience through academic or project work.
• Proficiency in CAD tools such as Solid Works or Siemens NX.
• Familiarity with engineering analysis tools (e.g., FEA, CFD).
• Flexibility to relocate or travel up to 50% for project needs.

• Experience with rapid prototyping and hardware iteration.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes and real-world constraints.
• A passion for mission-driven engineering and end-user outcomes.
• Commitment to continuous learning and process improvement.

• 100% coverage of platinum medical, dental, vision, and life insurance plans for employees
• 401k
• Relocation stipend if you’re moving from outside of LA
• Flexible vacation policy

It is the policy of Hadrian Automation, Inc. to provide equal employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.