Mechanical Engineer

At Arete, we are on the forefront of utilizing innovative solutions, with great minds from all backgrounds, to help solve the nation's most complex security challenges. We strive for an inclusive, collaborative team environment that approaches differences as opportunities for innovation and excellence. As an employee‑owned company, we foster an atmosphere that propels diverse career opportunities and professional growth.

Discover your future with us.

As a Mechanical Engineer at Arete, you will be responsible for designing, modeling, analyzing, assembling, and testing mechanical, electro‑mechanical, and opto‑mechanical systems and components. These advanced technologies are primarily employed in maritime and aerial environments, where your expertise will contribute to our ongoing pursuit of excellence. This position is based in our Tucson, AZ office. This is an exempt, non‑supervisory, full‑time position.

• Develop system specifications and requirements as needed.
• Create conceptual designs for custom mechanical components and select appropriate components.
• Conduct calculations, modeling, and simulations to predict mechanical system performance.
• Participate in design reviews and technical briefings as required.
• Produce detailed manufacturing drawings.
• Create assembly drawings and instructions.
• Coordinate the quoting process and provide fabrication support.
• Develop assembly and testing documentation, procedures, and fixtures as necessary.
• Assemble and test systems.
• Assist in lab and field test experiments.
• Travel typically ranging from 10‑20%.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance
• Life and Long‑Term Disability (LTD)
• Vision Reimbursement
• Fitness Reimbursement

• Company‑funded 5% contribution to your 401(k) retirement plan
• Company‑funded 5% contribution to your Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• Continuing Education Assistance

• Flexible Scheduling
• Paid Time Off (PTO)
• Paid Parental and Bereavement Leave

• Creativity and innovation in solving challenges
• Integrity and responsibility in all actions
• Collaboration across teams and specialties
• Responsiveness in fast‑paced environments
• Passion for national security and excellence

• BS in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent
• 2+ yrs. experience with BS/BA; 0+ yrs. experience with MS/MA
• Experience with CAD software (Creo or Solid Works preferred)
• Familiarity with Finite Element or Computational Fluid Dynamic Analysis (ANSYS/Fluent preferred)
• Capable of implementing hardware solutions
• Comfortable working in a hands‑on general machine shop environment
• Proficient in using standard MS Office software (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
• Able to support outdoor field tests, lab assembly, test and integration hands‑on tasks, occasional lifting of hardware as required, and occasional travel.
• Able to obtain a security clearance
• Possesses intellectual curiosity and a strong desire for continuous learning.
• Skilled and innovative problem solver
• Capable of working both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Exhibits a strong work ethic.
• Detail‑oriented in approach
• Proactively conducts research to fill knowledge gaps by consulting available literature as needed.
• Adaptable and able to support various roles in different system development projects.

• High level of design experience including design for manufacturing, cable/harnessing, etc.
• Production development and support experience

The salary range for this role is $90,000 to $115,000; however, Arete considers several factors when extending an offer of employment, including but not limited to: the position and associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, education/training, and key skills.

Arete is committed to the principles of equal employment opportunity and nondiscrimination, and we believe every person has the right to be treated with fairness, dignity, and equal consideration.

Arete is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status,…