Development Engineering Lead

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of drone platforms through the full product lifecycle: concept, prototyping, testing, qualification, and transition to production.
  
• Own the mechanical design of components and assemblies, and integrate those designs with electronics, sensors, actuators, and wiring.
  
• Manage and mentor a small team of engineers across mechanical, electrical, software, and systems disciplines.
  
• Stand up and improve engineering processes: version control, documentation, design standards, and engineering-change workflows.
  
• Partner with manufacturing and supply chain to drive design for manufacturing (DFM) and design for testability (DFT).
  
• Create detailed CAD models, drawings, and manufacturing documentation, and support technical reviews, risk assessments, and root-cause work.
  

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related field.
  
• 7+ years of engineering experience, including 2+ years leading or managing engineers.
  
• Demonstrated experience taking at least one hardware product from prototype all the way to production.
  
• Experience designing mechanical systems for robotics or electromechanical products.
  
• Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks, Creo, Fusion 360, or similar) and a strong grasp of DFM / DFA and common fabrication methods (machining, 3D printing, sheet metal, plastics, carbon fiber).
  
• US citizenship (required for the company’s government-related work).
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience building, modifying, or integrating drones or aerial robotics systems.
  
• Comfort integrating electronics into mechanical designs (sensors, actuators, PCBs, wiring) and supporting electronics bring-up and troubleshooting.
  
• Experience working with contract manufacturers and moving prototypes into production.
  
• Familiarity with FAA, CE, or other UAV regulatory standards (FAA Part 107 can be obtained after hire).
  

Benefits

• High ownership and autonomy in a fast-paced environment, with the chance to design, build, and ship real robotics hardware.
  
• Exposure to the full hardware development lifecycle and a path to lead R&D as the team grows.
  
• Competitive compensation, 401(k) with company contributions, and paid healthcare including telehealth and counseling.
  
• On-site role in the Southeast U.S.; relocation support available for the right candidate.