Mechanical Engineer L1

About CycloKinetics

CycloKinetics is advancing the next generation of high-performance propellants for aerospace and defense. Our highly innovative technology allows us to harness existing energy from biomass and convert it to superior performance fuels and propellants across aviation, aerospace, and defense applications. 

We are a team of engineers, scientists, and operators driven by performance, innovation, and national security impact focused on building scalable, domestic energy solutions that power the future of propulsion. CycloKinetics is based in Salt Lake City, Utah.  

Job Summary:

The Mechanical Engineer Level 1 is an exciting opportunity for an early-career engineer looking to turn engineering concepts into real-world solutions. In this hands-on role, you’ll work alongside experienced engineers, fabricators, and installers to help design, build, test, and improve the mechanical systems that support our growing biorefinery operations.

You’ll gain practical experience across the engineering lifecycle-from developing designs and creating CAD models to supporting fabrication, installation, testing, commissioning, and ongoing equipment improvements. You’ll apply your mechanical engineering knowledge to solve technical challenges, evaluate system performance, and contribute ideas that improve safety, reliability, and functionality.

Working under the guidance of senior engineers, you’ll have the opportunity to expand your technical skills while taking on increasing responsibility as your experience grows. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys hands-on problem-solving, collaborative engineering, and seeing designs move from concept to construction and operation.

Successful candidates will have a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering. Internship, co-op, research, or project experience involving mechanical design, manufacturing, process equipment, piping systems, CAD modeling, or fabrication is preferred but not required.

We’re looking for a motivated engineer who is organized, curious, and eager to learn. If you’re ready to build your engineering career while contributing to innovative industrial projects and working directly with the equipment and systems you help design, We’d like to hear from you.

Responsibilities:

• Evaluate and design mechanical systems and products by applying principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and materials.
• Support the design and construction of the demonstration facility, including tanks, vessels, piping-related mechanical components, and custom equipment.
• Create and modify 3D CAD models, assemblies, and detailed fabrication drawings using Autodesk Inventor or comparable CAD software.
• Support engineering projects throughout various phases, including concept development, design reviews, fabrication, assembly, installation, commissioning, startup, and testing. 
• Develop drawings, specifications, and documents for fabrication or review.
• Conduct basic engineering calculations and analysis to support design decisions.
• Participate in troubleshooting mechanical issues during development or production.
• Collect data, analyze and summarize information and trends for the use of developing future equipment in our specific processes.  
• Comply with all internal, OSHA, and government policies and regulations.
• Perform job duties in a safety-regulated environment where chemicals are used.
• Coordinate with maintenance and repair services to diagnose equipment and problems.
• Develop and implement action plans and solutions to address equipment or safety deficiencies.
• Assist other engineers with the coordination of work with in-house and outside engineering contractors.
• Participate in meetings and planning sessions, providing work updates or summaries as requested. 
• Participate in area HAZOP reviews and incident investigations.
• Interact daily with project team members developing and executing project objectives.
• Participate in factory acceptance tests and site acceptance tests.
• Participate in commissioning and startup activities, including loop checking and calibration of instruments and analyzers.
• Stay current with relevant engineering and industry practices.
• Confer with management and project stakeholders throughout a project’s life cycle.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Manager/Supervisor or designated leadership.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 0-5 years of related engineering work experience.
• Preference will be given to candidates who have some engineering experience (internships, or technical work experience).
• Basic knowledge of mechanical design principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
• Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, specifications, schematics, and technical documentation.
• Strong organizational skills with attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate technical documentation.
• Familiarity with 3D CAD platforms (Solidworks, Inventor, etc.).
• Proficiency in computer simulation/analysis tools is a plus (FEA & CFD).
• Strong critical thinking, analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office and related computer applications.

Physical Demands: 

Physical requirements may include lifting and/or moving items weighing up to fifty (50) pounds, bending, standing, reaching, climbing stairs, walking, and sitting.  Must have safe work habits and perform all duties in accordance with company safety policies. Personal protective equipment is provided by the company, and its use is mandatory.

General:

This position is based in Salt Lake City, Utah, with work performed on-site. CycloKinetics is an At-Will, VEVRAA, Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, E-Verify, and Drug Free Workplace. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background verification and drug screens.

Benefits:

CycloKinetics offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including:

• 15 Days of PTO
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 401(k) Savings Plan (including Roth options)
• Basic Life Insurance
• Dependent Life Insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Short-Term Disability (STD)
• Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Parental Leave
• ESOP
• Bonus Potential

EEO Statement:

CycloKinetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. We are excited to work with talented individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. All employment decisions at CycloKinetics are based on business needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or special disabled veteran status, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

We’re looking for detail-oriented team members who pride themselves on solving problems while bringing positive energy and strong communication skills to the table. If this describes you, come join our team today and contribute to the success of our organization!

FLSA Classification: Exempt