Mechanical Design Engineer

Mechanical Design Engineer – Aerospace & Defense
$170,000 – $210,000 + equity
On-site, El Segundo


Strativ Group is partnered with a high-caliber aerospace start-up founded by former SpaceX engineers, developing advanced mechanical systems already in operation on commercial/ defense aircrafts. With $120M in backing from leading investors, they are scaling rapidly and redefining how aerospace hardware is delivered.

They are now seeking a Mechanical Design Engineer to take ownership of flight-critical hardware from concept through to production.


Overview

This role sits at the core of the engineering team, focused on developing mechanical and fluid systems for both new and existing aircraft platforms. You will take full ownership of components, from early design and prototyping through qualification and production handoff. This role will work closely across design, test, and manufacturing.


Key Responsibilities

Lead the design, prototyping, and development of mechanical flight hardware
Design and develop fluid and structural systems, including valves, regulators, actuators, and associated components
Take end-to-end ownership of components, from initial concept through testing, qualification, and production
Create detailed engineering drawings, specifications, and technical documentation
Conduct root cause analysis across development, testing, and production stages
Collaborate with testing and manufacturing teams to ensure designs are robust and manufacturable
Continuously improve designs, streamline requirements, and optimize delivery timelines
Contribute to the development of engineering standards, testing methodologies, and design best practices


Requirements

Degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related discipline
Experience in mechanical or fluid system design, analysis, or hands-on development (industry or advanced projects)
Solid grounding in core engineering principles, including thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and solid mechanics
Proven ability to take ownership of projects within fast-paced, high-accountability environments
Proficiency in CAD software such as Siemens NX or equivalent tools


Preferred Experience

Background in aerospace or high-performance engineering environments
Experience with GD&T and manufacturing processes
Hands-on experience designing, building, testing, and troubleshooting mechanical systems
Experience with pressurized systems (valves, regulators, piping)
Familiarity with FEA and test instrumentation


Why Apply

Competitive salary package + equity
Equity in a well-funded, high-growth aerospace startup
Fast-paced, high-impact environment with real ownership from day one
Opportunity to work on flight hardware already deployed on commercial aircraft
Strong potential for career progression as the company scales



If this sounds like an opportunity that could be of interest, please press the "quick apply" button or message me directly at m.allen@strativgroup.com
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