Mechanical Engineer

About Pilgrim

Pilgrim is building advanced hardware systems that translate mission needs into real-world breakthroughs for warfighters. Our engineering team thrives at the intersection of rapid prototyping, ruggedized design, and direct field deployment. We don’t just build in labs—we test, iterate, and refine systems alongside operators, ensuring our technology makes an immediate and lasting impact where it matters most.

As a Mechanical Engineer at Pilgrim, you’ll be a hands‑on member of our engineering team, responsible for end‑to‑end ownership of hardware initiatives. This is not a theoretical R&D role—you’ll design, build, and deploy ruggedized systems that must perform under extreme conditions. You’ll move fast from prototype to field demo, iterate based on operator feedback, and work directly with decision‑makers to deliver systems that transform defense operations.

• Design and develop compact, ruggedized subsystems and housings in CAD, optimized for shock, vibration, and environmental stress.
• Prototype components using CNC machining, 3D printing (FDM/SLA), vacuum/pressure forming, and metalworking
  .
• Develop and integrate microfluidic and airflow subsystems
  , including manifolds, channels, valves, pumps, and sealing solutions.
• Build mechanical assemblies (gear trains, linkages, actuation rigs) for electromechanical integration.
• Apply DFM/DFA, tolerance analysis, and validation testing (fit checks, pressure/flow/thermal).
• Collaborate with electrical and systems engineers on complex electromechanical assemblies
  .
• Travel for live demos and field testing, gathering direct operator feedback to drive rapid iteration.

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering (preferred) or related field, or equivalent experience.
• A portfolio of independent projects demonstrating applied mechanical design and prototyping skills (required).
• Hands‑on shop experience with CNC machining, additive manufacturing, vacuum forming, and fabrication tools
  .
• Proficiency in CAD/CAM (Fusion 360 preferred, Solid Works acceptable), including toolpath generation for CNC workflows.
• Familiarity with microfluidic/airflow design and sealing methods (O‑rings, compression fittings, gaskets).
• Strong grasp of ruggedized design principles and tolerance stackups for field reliability.

• Experience with microfluidic systems (valves, pumps, connectors).
• Designing to MIL‑STD or ruggedization standards
  .
• Background in thermal management, airflow optimization, or CFD
  .
• DFM/DFA experience in defense, aerospace, or medical industries
  .
• Knowledge of high‑performance materials (PEEK, PTFE, composites, alloys).
• Assembly, testing, and root cause analysis of complex hardware systems.
• Exposure to integrating electromechanical subsystems (pumps, valves, fans).

• Direct impact
  :
  Build hardware that moves from concept to operator hands in months, not years.
• Hands‑on engineering
  :
  Design, prototype, and test under real‑world conditions.
• Mission‑driven culture
  :
  Work with a team passionate about solving hard problems for defense and national security.
• Growth opportunity
  :
  Take early ownership and grow as Pilgrim scales.

If you’re an engineer who thrives under real‑world pressure and wants to see your designs in the field making a difference, Pilgrim is the place for you.