Senior Mechanical Design Engineer, Ground Systems

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 Senior Ground Systems Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and deploy ground systems that enable the safe, reliable, and efficient transportation, handling, storage, launch, and operation of next-generation defense platforms. In this hands-on role, you will design, and iterate on ground support equipment (GSE), launch and deployment systems, electro-mechanical interfaces, and supporting infrastructure while optimizing for manufacturability, reliability, safety, cost, and performance. You will work alongside multidisciplinary engineering, manufacturing, test, and operations teams to develop requirements then perform design, analysis, and testing cycles leading to prototype and flight hardware. You will own the engineering deliverables (CAD models, drafting, analytic and test verification) but contribute throughout the entire hardware development lifecycle. This role is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving practical mechanical challenges, working directly with hardware, and rapidly developing robust systems that enable real-world operations. Key Responsibilities - Own the mechanical design and development of ground systems, including ground support equipment (GSE), launch and deployment systems, transport fixtures, storage solutions, lifting and handling equipment, and supporting infrastructure. - Create and maintain 3D CAD models, engineering drawings, bills of materials, and technical documentation to support fabrication, assembly, inspection, maintenance, and field deployment. - Perform first-order engineering calculations to size structures, mechanisms, lifting and restraint features, and other load-bearing components, accounting for static and dynamic loads, vibration, shock, environmental exposure, and applicable safety factors. - Collaborate with manufacturing, test, vehicle engineering, propulsion, avionics, and operations teams to define interfaces, translate operational needs into engineering requirements, and resolve integration challenges. - Support fabrication, assembly, installation, commissioning, and hands-on testing of ground systems, incorporating lessons learned from development campaigns and field operations. - Author engineering analyses, test plans, operating procedures, maintenance documentation, and technical milestones to support safe and repeatable ground operations. - Ability to support critical development and test milestones, including occasional extended hours and weekends as needed Required Qualifications - 4+ years of experience in mechanical engineering, with a focus on designing, prototyping, and integrating mechanical systems (can be in a professional, hobby or academic setting) - Strong skills in 3D modeling with CAD tools (e.g., NX, SolidWorks, etc.) including GD&T per ASME Y14.5 - Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related field. - Demonstrated experience contributing to end to end, hands-on hardware development from concept through fabrication, assembly, and testing. - Ability to translate operational needs and system-level requirements into practical mechanical designs, engineering analyses, and testable hardware. Preferred Qualifications - Experience designing ground support equipment, launch equipment, transport fixtures, storage containers, lifting and handling devices, or other industrial or aerospace support systems. - Experience performing first-order structural calculations or using FEA tools to evaluate load-bearing components, frames, fixtures, and support structures. - Experience designing mechanical interfaces between flight hardware and ground equipment, including alignment, mounting, access, servicing, and integration requirements. - Experience with manufacturing processes, fabrication drawings, tolerance stack-ups, welding, machining, sheet metal, or structural assemblies. - Familiarity with environmental considerations such as vibration, shock, temperature extremes, corrosion, dust, moisture, and repeated transport or deployment. - Familiarity with relevant industry standards and safety practices for lifting equipment, pressure systems, launch infrastructure, and industrial machinery, as applicable to the hardware. - Experience with scripting or programming tools such as Python or MATLAB for engineering calculations, data analysis, and test support. 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!