Mechanical EngineerFlightWave, a subsidiary of Red Cat Holdings, is looking to fill a Mechanical Engineer position. We are a dynamic and growing drone technology company focused on the manufacturing of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS drones) for use in defense, public safety, and other government security organizations.In this role, you will be responsible for designing, prototyping, fabricating, testing, and integrating a range of mechanical systems into flight hardware and ground control systems. The ideal candidate will have a background in mechanical design of drones and/or multi-axis camera gimbals in high volume production applications.Location Note: The role will start in Carson, but the office is expected to move to the Torrance area in Q1 2026.Essential duties and responsibilities include:Design electromechanical systems for UAS platforms using SolidWorksPrototype, test, and refine designs, preparing them for scalable manufacturingDevelop and build production tools, fixtures, and automation jigs to support manufacturing operationsManage engineering drawings, revisions, and documentation throughout the product lifecycleMaintain and organize product data within the PDMS, ensuring accuracy and traceabilityIdentify, evaluate, and qualify new vendors and manufacturing partnersCreate assembly procedures, inspection and test procedures, test reports, and product requirements documentationParticipate directly in the NPI process, including hands-on hardware builds and system bring-upContribute to the design, build, and flight testing of advanced drone platformsRequired qualifications include:Bachelor's degree (B.S.) in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field3+ years of industry experience in a design-focused engineering roleDemonstrated excellence in problem-solving, with strong written and verbal communication skills3+ years of hands-on experience with SolidWorks or comparable CAD platforms (e.g., NX, Creo, AutoCAD)Proven ability to drive system-level architecture decisions and support full lifecycle product development through strong systems engineering principlesProven ability to perform FEA analysis, including modal, thermal and aerodynamic analysisProven experience designing for high-rate production, including rapid prototyping and new product developmentAdditional desired qualifications include:Experience with BLDC motor system design, integration, and validationProficiency in PCB layout, design, and component placement for electromechanical systemsBackground in flexible PCB design and reliable cable routing for dynamic or motion-critical assembliesIndustry experience in robotics, UAVs/drones, autonomous systems, or similar hardware-driven environmentsFamiliarity with camera modules, imaging systems, and optical component integrationExperience collaborating with electrical engineering teams to support PCBA layout, DFM/DFX, and production from a mechanical standpointAbility to develop microcontroller-based tools or fixtures for testing, production support, or hardware bring-upKnowledge of structural composite materials (carbon fiber, fiberglass) and related mold or tooling designExperience performing or interpreting analyses such as thermal, aerodynamic, or transient vibration simulationUnderstanding of composite layup processes and design for manufacturability in composite structuresPhysical requirements and working conditions include:Be able to lift 15 lbWork on your feet for 5+ hours each dayBackground checkThis position will require successfully completing a post-offer background check.
Qualified candidates with a criminal history will be considered and are not automatically disqualified, consistent with federal and state law.EEO and ITAR/EAR work authorization disclosureRed Cat Holdings provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. This position requires direct or indirect access to hardware, software, technology or technical data controlled under the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Successful candidates for positions subject to ITAR/EAR restrictions must provide proof of U.S.
Citizenship or Permanent Residence and must not require sponsorship for export-restricted work authorization.E-VerifyThe company participates E-Verify ensure eligibility for employment and compliance with Right to Work rules.