Senior Mechanical Engineer

Staff/Senior Mechanical Engineer

Electra is seeking a Staff / Senior Mechanical Engineer to support the design and development of mechanical systems for our hybrid-electric Ultra Short aircraft. This role involves hands-on engineering work across system architecture, design, integration, prototyping, and testing activities and is based in Manassas, Virginia.

This is an exciting opportunity to contribute directly to the development of a revolutionary aircraft while working alongside a highly collaborative engineering team.

What You'll Do:

• Support the mechanical design, development, and integration of aircraft systems
• Develop design requirements, specifications, interface definitions, and supporting engineering documentation
• Perform engineering analyses, calculations, and simulations to verify system performance and compliance with program requirements
• Support trade studies and design evaluations to optimize performance, weight, reliability, maintainability, and cost
• Create and maintain CAD models, layouts, installation definitions, and drawing packages as required
• Support supplier selection, technical evaluations, and development activities
• Participate in design reviews and technical assessments
• Review engineering deliverables including analyses, drawings, test plans, models, reports, and certification artifacts
• Support system integration activities and collaborate across disciplines including structures, propulsion, electrical, avionics, manufacturing, and flight test
• Investigate, troubleshoot, and resolve integration and operational issues identified during development and test activities
• Support qualification, verification, validation, and certification efforts
• Assist with development of compliance documentation for FAA Part 23 and other applicable regulatory requirements
• Perform other duties as assigned

What You Bring:

• Bachelor's degree and 5+ years (Staff) or 8+ years (Senior) of relevant experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Strong understanding of mechanical system design, integration, and verification processes
• Experience developing engineering requirements, specifications, and technical documentation
• Experience performing engineering calculations and analytical assessments
• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD design and modeling tools, with NX experience strongly preferred
• Strong problem-solving and troubleshooting skills
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary development environment
• Strong communication and collaboration skills, including the ability to work effectively across internal teams and external partners

Leveling Expectations:

Final leveling (Staff or Senior) will be determined based on the candidate's experience, education, demonstrated skills, and degree of independence and autonomy appropriate for the role.

Both levels require a strong foundation in engineering principles and the ability to solve complex technical problems. Differentiation between levels is based on degree of ownership, autonomy, and influence.

• Staff Engineer (5+ years):
  Experienced with frequent application of technical standards, principles, and theories; works under general supervision to solve technical problems of moderate scope and complexity; executes defined scope of work with growing independence; contributes to system integration, supplier coordination, and technical problem-solving
• Senior Engineer (8+ years):
  Demonstrates a complete understanding and wide application of engineering principles, theories, and concepts; works under limited direction to solve a wide range of complex technical problems; independently determines and develops approaches to solutions; owns technical scope such as supplier oversight, integration activities, and compliance efforts; drives issue resolution and collaborates effectively with minimal guidance

Bonus Points:

• Experience supporting FAA Part 23 certification programs
• Experience with mechanical design of aircraft systems, including propulsion, mechanical systems, avionics, and flight controls
• Experience with system integration, ground testing, and flight test support
• Working knowledge of GD&T and aerospace manufacturing methods
• Experience collaborating with external suppliers and development partners

Compensation:

$93,000.00- $ annually. This range reflects the anticipated hiring range across all eligible locations; actual compensation is determined based on your relevant experience, skills, and geographic location. Total compensation includes performance bonus, equity participation, and comprehensive benefits.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and equity
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance; STD, LTD, and life insurance
• Generous PTO, sick leave, and company holidays
• Paid winter break
• 401(k) with immediate vesting
• Free catered lunches, coffee, snacks, and drinks at our Manassas headquarters
• Free on-site parking

Working Conditions:

Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical…