Mid-Level Mechanical Engineer

Location:
Virginia Beach, VA

Zel Tech is seeking a motivated and skilled Mechanical Engineer to support the research, design, analysis, and prototyping of next-generation Unmanned Systems for a Government customer. The ideal candidate will contribute to mechanical design and systems integration across the full development lifecycle and play an active role in advancing mission-ready unmanned technologies.

• Assist in the design, development, and evaluation of mechanical components and subsystems for unmanned and autonomous platforms.
• Conduct mechanical and structural analyses, including load, vibration, thermal, and corrosion assessments.
• Apply Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) principles to develop, analyze, and manage system models, ensuring the integration of modeling and simulation tools and methodologies with systems engineering processes to support requirements development, architecture design, trade studies, and system validation activities.
• Generate and revise engineering documentation such as CAD models, drawings, parts lists, system diagrams, and manufacturing plans.
• Support integration and test activities in lab and field environments, including troubleshooting and resolving mechanical issues during assembly and operation.
• Contribute to the mechanical aspects of UxS prototype development and validation through hands‑on fabrication, testing, and performance assessments.
• Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including electrical, software, and systems engineers to ensure complete and functional system designs.
• Maintain accurate technical data and deliverable documentation.
• Evaluate new mechanical hardware and integration approaches to improve autonomy, survivability, and environmental performance.
• Support trade‑off studies, risk assessments, value engineering, and lifecycle cost estimation from a mechanical standpoint.
• Support development and validation of mechanical models for simulation of UxS performance in variable environments.
• Integrate simulation feedback into iterative mechanical design improvements.

• Must be a US citizen.
• Must possess a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Must have an active SECRET clearance.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience in mechanical engineering, preferably for defense, aerospace, or related technical fields.
• Demonstrated experience applying Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) practices using tools such as Cameo, SysML, or similar, including integration of modeling and simulation to support systems engineering processes.
• Proficiency in CAD tools such as Solid Works or AutoCAD.
• Working knowledge of mechanical engineering principles related to structural design, materials, thermal management, and environmental survivability.
• Strong problem-solving skills and hands‑on experience with prototype fabrication, mechanical assembly, or field testing.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a cross‑functional technical team.
• Successful background and drug screening check.

• N/A

The work environment characteristics and physical demands described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

• The majority of the time is spent in an office setting.
• Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds.
• Specific vision abilities required include close vision, distance, vision, color vision and ability to adjust focus.
• Frequently required to sit, use hands to finger, handle, or feel, and talk or hear.

Founded in 1988 by Ret. Col. Jack L. Ezzell Jr., Zel Technologies is a trusted leader in national security, providing comprehensive research, development, engineering, and operational support to the Department of Defense, the Intelligence Community, and federal agencies. Originally focused on leveraging operational and software expertise to improve time-critical targeting capabilities for the military, the company advanced its capabilities to provide scientific and HUMINT expertise for CBRNE…