Mechanical Engineer - Robotics

Mechanical Engineer --- Aerospace Robotics

Seattle / Shoreline, WA
· On‑site

Full-time
· Direct Hire

$105,000 -- $150,000 base + 401(k) match, full medical/dental/vision, PTO

CST has been retained on a confidential search for a Mechanical Engineer to join an aerospace robotics pioneer transforming autonomous manufacturing through high-rate, "lights-out" robotic factory platforms. You will work shoulder‑to‑shoulder with a senior design strike team solving high‑stakes mechanical problems—engineering precision electromechanical assemblies deployed on live aerospace factory floors and flight lines, not slideware.

• Rapid Engineering Compounding:
  Small strike team, senior peers, and high‑complexity design cycles where a 4--8 year engineer accelerates technical ownership faster than in a siloed Tier‑1 prime.
• Deployed Production Hardware:
  Real hardware shipping globally to automate aerospace aerostructures; you will see your CAD drawings convert to metal and revenue.
• Full‑Lifecycle Scope:
  Complete ownership from initial SOW and requirements through Solid Works CAD, mechanical load calculations, BOM management, prototyping, testing, and production handoff.

• Translate customer SOWs and technical requirements into rigorous design objectives and functional prototypes.
• Drive design decisions using first-principles calculations: free‑body diagrams, mechanical load analysis, lifecycle simulations, and trade studies.
• Take platforms and end‑effectors from concept through prototyping to high Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) for factory deployment.
• Execute all primary 3D modeling and assembly design in Solid Works.

• Lead hands‑on rapid prototyping, bench testing, and real‑world electromechanical validation.
• Optimize systems for Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFM/DFA), targeting structural cost efficiency and assembly speed.
• Perform FEA and dynamic simulations to benchmark and improve platform reliability and load efficiency metrics.

• Collaborate directly with electrical and robotics software engineers to integrate closed‑loop sensing, actuators, linear rails, and multi‑axis mechanisms.
• Generate high‑precision part and assembly drawings with strict GD&T standards for CNC machine shops and sheet metal fabricators.
• Issue work orders, build BOMs, author work instructions, and provide direct hands‑on QA/assembly support on the shop floor.

• 4+ years of professional mechanical engineering experience (minimum 3+ in hands‑on aerospace robotics or automation).
• Hands‑on aerospace robotics / industrial automation background --- this is the primary candidate filter.
• Advanced Solid Works proficiency
  , including complex assemblies and disciplined part‑drawing generation.
• Rigorous command of GD&T (ASME Y14.5), Design for Manufacturing (DFM), and precision metals fabrication.
• Firm machinery design foundation: engineering mechanics, materials science, fatigue/failure prevention, and electromechanical drive selection.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or a closely related discipline.
• Work Authorization: U.S. Citizen or U.S. Permanent Resident (ITAR/aerospace compliance requirement).

• Proven experience with multi‑position electromechanical assemblies, precision linear actuators, or closed‑loop motion hardware.
• Finite Element Analysis (FEA) simulation experience (stress, modal, thermal).
• Familiarity with enterprise PDM / PLM workflows and large‑scale BOM management.
• Exposure to CATIA or multi‑CAD client environments.

• Location: Seattle / Shoreline, WA --- On‑site design facility and testing lab.
• Travel: Up to 25% for customer site integrations, flight line testing, and field deployments.
• Compensation: $105,000 -- $150,000 base salary DOE + comprehensive 401(k) match + 100% covered health, dental, and vision + PTO.
• Clearance / Status: U.S. Person status required.