Mechanical Engineering Manager

Overview

San Luis Obispo, California, United States

Zone 5 Technologies is seeking an experienced Mechanical Engineering Manager to lead our team of engineers in the design, analysis, and development of air vehicle mechanical hardware. The successful candidate will oversee a mechanical engineering team, manage projects, promote design quality standards, and drive innovation in mechanical design and analysis. This role requires strong leadership, technical expertise, and effective communication to deliver high‑quality solutions in support of Zone 5's growing UAS development needs.

This position will work on-site in San Luis Obispo, CA at our Headquarters.

As a Mechanical Engineering Manager, you will lead a team of engineers in designing, analyzing, and developing UAS mechanical solutions, ensuring compliance with industry standards and project requirements. You will also be a working manager, contributing at the individual mechanical engineering level as well as in a management capacity. This role involves overseeing project execution, mentoring team members, and collaborating with cross‑functional teams to deliver innovative, high‑quality mechanical solutions.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in mechanical engineering, strong leadership skills, and proficiency in tools like ANSYS and Solid Works (preferred), with a focus on driving technical excellence and project success.

• Manage and grow a team of engineers, fostering collaboration and innovation.
• Oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of projects.
• Guide the team in designing, analyzing, and testing mechanical solutions.
• Review designs and analyses to ensure integrity and performance.
• Collaborate cross-functionally to integrate mechanical designs into systems.
• Drive innovative approaches to advance design methodologies and solutions.
• Drive the development of processes, procedures and standards.
• Ensure quality of mechanical design and documentation.
• Liaise with stakeholders to communicate technical requirements and progress.

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• 7+ years of experience as a mechanical or structural engineer, including 2+ in a leadership or supervisory role
• Proficiency in CAD systems, including 3D modeling and drawing generation
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
• Design for Manufacturing (DFM)
• Proficiency in mechanical analysis methods and tools
• Strong problem-solving skills
• Effective communication and collaboration skills

• Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
• Experience with Group 1-4 UAS systems engineering
• Direct experience and proficiency in mentoring and training junior engineers
• Proficiency with Solid Works

$187,000 - $195,000 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 cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
• Collaborative Culture:
  Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
• Career Growth:
  Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.