Mechanical Engineer IV

About OKSI

Opto-Knowledge Systems, Inc. (OKSI) designs and builds electro-optical and infrared sensor systems, autonomous platforms, and modeling and simulation solutions that support national security and defense missions. Our engineers work across the full lifecycle, from concept through fielded systems, on technologies like autonomous vehicle command and control, object detection, and real-time mission operations.

Opto-Knowledge Systems, Inc. (OKSI) designs and builds electro-optical and infrared sensor systems, autonomous platforms, and modeling and simulation solutions that support national security and defense missions. Our engineers work across the full lifecycle, from concept through fielded systems, on technologies like autonomous vehicle command and control, object detection, and real-time mission operations.

The Mechanical Engineer IV contributes to all aspects of multiple projects, concept, design, development, implementation, and revisions, across technologies including autonomous command and control, object detection, scientific data analysis, real-time mission operations, and optomechanical systems.

• Lead the design, development, and optimization of complex mechanical systems involving drones, seekers, optical assemblies, GPS antennas, computers, and power systems
• Serve as technical lead on high-impact projects; define scope, delegate tasks, and mentor junior and mid-level engineers
• Lead root cause analysis on critical design and manufacturing issues; evaluate new tools, methods, and materials
• Act as a key liaison between mechanical engineering and other disciplines; contribute to proposals and communicate with customers and non-technical stakeholders
• Oversee full-lifecycle prototype development, from concept through field deployment, including structural, thermal, and dynamic validation testing
• Review and approve engineering documentation, drawings, BOMs, and test reports; ensure compliance with ASME, MIL-STD, and ITAR/export requirements
• Drive continuous improvement in design practices and DFM/DFA across product lines
• Drive design transition from engineering to full-scale production, including supplier qualification and technical negotiations

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, physics, or a related field
• 6+ years of relevant work experience
• Proficiency in CAD software (Solid Works, AutoCAD, Inventor, or similar)
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles (thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, solid mechanics, heat transfer, materials science)
• Strong understanding of manufacturing techniques
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulations (ISO, ASME, etc.)
• Experience leading projects from concept to completion, prioritizing tasks and managing timelines
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

• Master's degree
• Experience with FEA, optomechanical design, thermal management, lightweight structures, or CFD tools
• Experience flying or able to fly drones
• Computer/electronics assembly experience
• Basic machine shop experience (soldering, lathe, mill, etc.)

• See your work fielded fast. Get hands-on with hardware and watch it deployed to customers within months, not years.
• Build next-generation defense technology. Our engineering work protects warfighters, reduces collateral damage, and safeguards civilians.
• Speed and accuracy. We move quickly, and you'll see your work through from concept to deployment, not just one slice of the pipeline. No process bottlenecks; we move with speed and agility.
• Flexible schedule. Working at OKSI gives you the opportunity to see your work come to fruition while still maintaining real work-life balance through our hybrid schedule…