Senior Mechanical Engineer
TLDR
Own major subsystems for ruggedized directed-energy systems, correlating FEA with field tests and taking designs through manufacturing handoff.
About the Role
Own major mechanical subsystems for ruggedized, field-deployable directed-energy systems, from early architecture through production handoff. You will work across a lean engineering team to help ensure systems perform reliably in demanding field conditions.
What You'll Do
Design and validate mechanical subsystems, including enclosures, beam director structures, gimbals, and precision mounts.
Perform static, modal, random vibration, and shock response spectrum FEA, then correlate results with bench and field testing.
Develop thermal management solutions for high-power laser and electronics packaging across thermal cycles.
Build, instrument, and operate test rigs to characterize system behavior before field deployment.
Design for MIL-STD-810 shock and vibration requirements and other austere environments.
Take designs from concept through prototyping, validation, field testing, and manufacturing handoff.
Lead design reviews, collaborate with senior engineers, and mentor junior mechanical engineers.
Travel to field test events and range days to validate performance and iterate on designs.
What We're Looking For
At least 5 years of mechanical engineering experience with ruggedized, field-deployable, or high-performance systems, including taking a subsystem from prototype to production.
Strong hands-on FEA experience with ANSYS, Nastran, Abaqus, or equivalent, including test correlation.
Experience designing to MIL-STD-810 or equivalent shock and vibration standards, and packaging precision optomechanical systems.
Experience designing thermal management for high-power systems, building test rigs, and supporting manufacturing handoff.
A BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
Laser, directed-energy, optical bench ruggedization, or vehicle-mounted systems experience is a plus.
U.S. citizenship is required. The role requires on-site work in Detroit and travel for field testing.
Compensation & Benefits
Base salary is $165,000 to $210,000 annually. Visa sponsorship is not available.
Location
On-site in Detroit, Michigan, with travel for field test events and range validation.
Clera harnesses the power of artificial intelligence to match high-growth startups with exceptional talent, streamlining the entire headhunting process. This innovative approach simplifies the job search for candidates while providing startups with access to a curated pool of skilled professionals who align with their needs.
- Founded
- Founded 2024
- Industry
- Internet Software & Services