Mechanical Engineer, Aircraft Systems

Swarm Aero is redefining air power, building the largest swarming UAV and most versatile swarming aircraft network in the world. The company is moving quickly to launch the first aircraft designed specifically for swarming as well as the Command & Control software to mobilize swarms of thousands of heterogeneous autonomous assets and empower human operators to achieve superhuman results.  

The team has created and exited multiple startups, negotiated defense deals worth billions of dollars and designed and built 30+ novel aircraft, with aerospace experience from Scaled Composites, Airbus, Archer Aviation, Blue Origin, and Boom Supersonic. 

As a Mechanical Engineer at Swarm Aero, you will lead the design, integration, and testing of structural and mechanical systems that make our long-range aircraft possible. You’ll work from concept through flight test, ensuring designs are optimized for performance, manufacturability, and reliability.

Key Responsibilities

• Create detailed CAD models, assemblies, and manufacturing drawings.
• Design structural, actuation, and mechanical integration systems.
• Develop part and material libraries, with focus on composites and lightweight design.
• Partner with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are producible at scale.
• Oversee fabrication, assembly, and test of mechanical subsystems.
• Conduct structural and tolerance analyses; document and present findings.
• Support troubleshooting during prototype build, integration, and flight.

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 3+ years of mechanical design and integration experience.
• Proficiency in CAD (NX preferred).
• Familiarity with PLM systems (Teamcenter or equivalent).
• Knowledge of GD&T, drafting standards, and structural analysis fundamentals.
• Understanding of machining, sheet metal, and composite processes.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in aerospace, defense, or UAV programs.
• Hands-on composite layup and structural testing experience.
• Background in actuation systems or landing gear design.
• Exposure to additive manufacturing methods.
• Lifecycle experience from concept through production.

What We Offer:

• Meaningful equity stake in a high-growth defense technology company 
• Competitive base salary commensurate with experience  
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, and 401k 
• PTO and Paid Sick Time 
• Monthly Wellness Stipend 
• Daily catered lunch to office 
• Paid Parental leave  
• Flexible work arrangement - remote/hybrid with regular collaboration in Oxnard 
• Direct impact opportunity - be a key leader in building a critical technology for national security 
• World-class team - work alongside exceptional engineers and operators solving hard problems 

Compensation Range:

• Base Salary: $165,000 - $210,000 + Equity

Optionally: Candidates for this position must have the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance. 

To conform to U.S. Government controlled technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.