Senior Mechanical Engineer, Propulsion Systems and Integration

About the role

About Mach Industries Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. The Role Mach Industries is seeking a Propulsion Systems & Mechanical Integration Engineer to own the mechanical integration of propulsion systems across our next-generation defense platforms. In this hands-on role, you will work at the intersection of propulsion, structures, fluids, thermal management, avionics, and vehicle systems to turn propulsion concepts into reliable, testable, manufacturable hardware. You will integrate next-generation engines, fuel systems, valves, pumps, tanks, actuators, thermal protection, and associated support hardware in tightly constrained aerospace vehicles. You will drive the mechanical architecture and interfaces required to accomodate propulsion systems while balancing performance, mass, packaging, manufacturability, reliability, and cost. At Mach Industries, we are redefining the future of defense through advanced, scalable platforms. As a Mechanical Engineer, you will play a key role in prototyping and refining mechanical systems, and optimizing designs for performance and scalability. Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team, you’ll help shape the next wave of defense technologies, from concept to deployment. Key Responsibilities - Own mechanical integration of propulsion systems from early architecture and concept development through prototype, test, qualification, and production. - Develop and maintain propulsion mechanical interfaces, including engines, tanks, pumps, valves, regulators, plumbing, actuators, mounts, supports, and vehicle structure. - Define propulsion system packaging and installation architectures, balancing performance, mass, center of gravity, volume, thermal environment, accessibility, and manufacturability. - Translate engine and vehicle level requirements into feed system requirements, interface documentation, and hardware - Perform first-order sizing and engineering analysis of mounts, brackets, plumbing supports, tanks, interfaces, and other propulsion hardware. - Develop and manage propulsion mechanical interface requirements, ICDs, interface drawings, layouts, and configuration-controlled design data. - Design and release mechanical hardware including flight hardware, prototype, test fixtures, and ground support equipment using 3D CAD, drawings, GD&T, and appropriate engineering standards. - Analyze and resolve propulsion-induced loads, vibration, thermal expansion, pressure loads, shock, and other dynamic environments at mechanical interfaces. - Design and support installation, removal, servicing, inspection, and test of propulsion systems. - Support propulsion and vehicle-level testing, including test planning, hardware readiness, instrumentation, anomaly resolution, and post-test assessment. - Author technical documentation, test plans, interface documentation, trade studies, and engineering milestones for cross-functional and leadership review. - Ability to support critical development and test milestones, including occasional extended hours and weekends as needed Required Qualifications - 5+ years of experience in mechanical, aerospace, or propulsion engineering, with significant experience developing and integrating complex mechanical systems in a fast-paced environment. - Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. - Strong skills in 3D modeling and CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, etc.) for mechanical design and iteration including GD&T per ASME Y14.5 - Strong understanding of propulsion mechanical systems, including some combination of engines, fuel systems, tanks, pumps, valves, regulators, plumbing, mounts, and associated support hardware. Preferred Qualifications - Advanced degree (Masters of PhD) in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Propulsion, or a related field. - Experience with structural analysis, FEA, Thermal Desktop, or other analytical tools used to evaluate propulsion interfaces and hardware. - Experience with programming languages (e.g. python, MATLAB, C++) for analytical modeling, simulation and engineering problem-solving. - Direct experience designing or integrating engine mounts, fuel tanks, pressure vessels, fluid lines, valves, pumps, regulators, manifolds, and related hardware. - Familiarity with slosh dynamics and mitigation systems including baffles, foam, bladders, etc. Additional Requirements - Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed ITAR Requirements To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here . Engineer $140,000 — $180,000 USD At Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends. Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy: - Competitive Salaries : We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location. - Performance-Based Incentives : Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-win scenario that motivates our team members to excel. - Equity Participation : We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company. - Benefit Packages : Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well-being extends beyond the office. - Professional Development : We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth. - Transparency : We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect. By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long-term success. Data Privacy To view Mach Industries candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://machindustries.com/privacy-policy . Disclosures This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license. Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!