Principal Mechanical Design Engineer

Performance Drone Works (PDW) is building the next generation of tactical robotic systems used across defense, national security, and public safety missions. We are building a new center of engineering excellence to design our new category of tactical robotic systems and the industrial capacity to deliver them, bringing decisive airpower into the hands of every operator. We are not here to make promises; we are here to deliver real systems with real capabilities for real missions.

You will join a team of operators, engineers, and builders who solve hard problems with humility and focus. We design and produce multi-mission aerial systems that operators trust to perform in real-world conditions, reliably, repeatedly, and at scale. Our approach is grounded in operator-centered design, rapid iteration from field use, and U.S.-based manufacturing. We operate by a clear set of values: Mission First, Aim Farther, Own It, Win Together. This is how we build advantage and how we help protect our service members, our communities, and our country.

Now, we’re entering a new phase of growth and are looking for a Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our team, contributing to the next wave of system and tool development for our upcoming product lines. The ideal candidate will thrive working in an innovative and fast-paced work environment, have excellent critical thinking skills, and will play a pivotal role in the expansion of the Mechanical Engineering team at PDW.

What You'll Do

• Lead advanced 3D CAD modeling, design reviews, and simulation/analysis for complex systems.
• Serve as subject matter expert on core projects, guiding material selection, DFM/DFA, and test strategy.
• Oversee prototype builds, root cause analysis, and validation testing to ensure design integrity.
• Define, review, and execute test plans, ensuring compliance with performance and regulatory standards.
• Manage CAD assemblies and establish best practices for configuration and integration.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical oversight across the team.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition designs into scalable production.
• Contribute to long-term technology roadmaps and continuous improvement initiatives.

Requirements

• 7+ years of work experience in design and development of electromechanical components, assemblies, and systems.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, or a technically related field.
• Proficient in 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks) and DFM for Injection Molding, Machining, Additive Manufacturing.
• Skilled in complex design, surface modeling, and industrial design.
• Experience in mechanical design review and root cause analysis.
• Ability to make high quality engineering drawings that meet industry standards and application of GD&T.
• Demonstrated hands-on fabrication skills.
• Experience in electronic product and UAS design.
• Experience in bringing products through full product life cycle.
• Strong success rate of receiving and interpreting design direction from creative partners.
• Strong interdisciplinary skills across other engineering departments.
• Must be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. Secret security clearance or higher, as required.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 50 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard machine shop equipment as well as standard office equipment. Must be physically capable of tolerating loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE).

Work Environment

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and may involve exposure to loud noise, heat, cold, dust, or chemicals (with PPE) and may require occasional travel to test sites/customer locations/supplier facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. Standard works hours for this position are 8:30am-5:00pm with occasional overtime as operational needs demand.

Benefits

PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company.
• Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match.
• Paid Parental Leave.
• On-site gym at Huntsville, AL & Denver, CO locations.
• Employer provided life insurance.
• Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation.
• Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options.

EEO Statement

PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.