Mechanical Engineer - Aerial Targets
The Mechanical Engineer for Aerial Targets at Confidential Client supports the design, analysis, testing, and sustainment of unmanned aircraft systems and ground launch hardware. This role involves collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure compliance with aerospace standards and to integrate new components, contributing directly to products that support military operations. The position offers hands-on engineering experience in a dynamic aerospace environment with opportunities for professional growth.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Aerospace & Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS).
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
Position summary
Confidential Client (a small business working in aerospace and unmanned aerial systems) is hiring a Mechanical Engineer — Aerial Targets to support design, analysis, testing, and sustainment of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and ground launch systems. This is a full-time, on-site engineering role based in Madison, AL that combines hands-on fabrication with desk-based analysis and team collaboration.
What You’ll Do (Primary Responsibilities)
- Assist in design, analysis, and sustainment of fielded unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and associated ground launch systems.
- Perform engineering analyses using CAD and CAE tools (e.g., SolidWorks, FEA/ANSYS, CFD as applicable).
- Support integration of new or replacement components into fielded systems, including obsolescence resolution and form/fit/function substitutions.
- Support structural, thermal, and mechanical testing for air vehicles and launch systems.
- Assist with limited design work on airframe structures and launcher components to support sustainment and integration.
- Prepare technical documentation, engineering reports, and design presentations.
- Collaborate with systems engineering, manufacturing, and test teams on product updates and field support.
- Ensure compliance with applicable aerospace standards and safety/regulatory requirements (e.g., FAA, DoD standards as applicable).
- Participate in prototype fabrication, integration, and validation flight testing.
Required Skills & Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
- Basic understanding of aerodynamics, propulsion fundamentals, structures, and materials.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability and willingness to work hands-on in a lab/production environment and perform office-based engineering tasks.
- Strong verbal and written communication; ability to work cross-functionally with electrical, software, and production teams.
- Willingness to travel occasionally to support flight test and field activities.
- Must be a U.S. citizen and able to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance.
Desired / Preferred Qualifications
- 0–5 years of mechanical or aerospace engineering experience (internships, co-ops, and project experience count).
- Experience with CAD tools such as SolidWorks, CATIA, or similar.
- Exposure to structural/FEA analysis tools (ANSYS, Nastran, etc.).
- Familiarity with composite materials and fabrication methods (wet layup, prepreg) and machining/prototyping skills.
- Understanding of small unmanned aircraft, target drones, or related UAS subsystems.
- Experience with programming or data analysis (Python, MATLAB, C++) and with systems engineering principles.
- Knowledge of industry standards (AS9100, FAA Part 23/25, MIL-STD) is a plus.
Compensation & Benefits
- Estimated base: $106,171 per year (estimated).
- Competitive benefits package, mentorship and training, career growth opportunities, and a collaborative maker culture.
Location & Position Type
- Primary location: Madison, AL (on-site).
- Position type: Full-Time / Regular.
- U.S. Citizenship required.
Additional Details
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance is required.
- Role involves hands-on prototyping, fabrication, test support, and occasional travel for flight tests.
- Confidential Client is committed to reasonable accommodation during the application and hiring process. If you require an accommodation, please let us know.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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