Firestorm

Firestorm

Principal Airframe Design Engineer

San Diego, USA · Principal

Work authorization required$153k-$206kDetected 42 days ago
Product ManagementProcurementSolidWorksThermal AnalysisStructural AnalysisGD&TCadenceMechanical DesignAerospace EngineeringHardware DesignLeadershipCollaborationMentoringAdaptability

About the role

  • You will be given ownership for the hardware product lifecycle of the airframe.
  • You will be engaged in all phases of the development lifecycle, from early concepts and prototyping through rigorous testing and production, in a fast-moving, high-impact setting.

Responsibilities

  • Lead mechanical design efforts for key UAV subsystems across the entire product lifecycle: concept, prototyping, testing, production, and field support.
  • Develop innovative, manufacturable airframe designs optimized for UAV flight performance under varying operational conditions, ensuring structural, dynamic, thermal and functional requirements are met through rigorous analysis and validation.
  • Analyze initial aerostructure designs against preliminary mass targets and strength and stiffness requirements.
  • Create and maintain high-quality 3D CAD models, detailed engineering drawings, and manufacturing documentation using SolidWorks, emphasizing GD&T principles to ensure precision and manufacturability.
  • Lead the structural mechanical design of aircraft primary and secondary structures in the airframe, from initial concept through production.
  • Develop and champion innovative structural solutions to optimize weight, cost, and performance.
  • Develop structural requirements, specifications, and test plans (DVP&R).
  • Lead and oversee structural testing, expertly analyze test data, and take ownership of generating detailed test reports.
  • Proactively investigate and resolve complex structural issues that arise during development and providing robust design solutions.
  • Drive high-cadence iterative design and analysis cycles, supporting rapid prototyping and cross-functional design reviews to incorporate test feedback promptly and continuously improve hardware through agile development processes.

Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.
  • Proven track record of taking complex mechanical assemblies from concept to production.
  • Proficiency in first-order structural analysis and hand calculations, including free body diagrams, statics, and mechanics of materials.
  • In order to be successful in this role, you must be someone who is self-motivated, adaptable and is able to lead your own projects to completion in a fast-paced environment.
  • Proficiency in 3D CAD and first-order hand calculation methods will be key to driving innovative solutions that enhance our UAV platform capabilities.

Nice to have

  • Familiarity with configuration management, version control practices for CAD, and engineering documentation control.
  • Familiarity with designing injection-molded components or polymer-based additive manufacturing techniques.
  • Review of static & dynamic load inputs, material and test results.

Compensation

  • $153,000 - $206,000 USD The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs.
  • Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
  • We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth.
  • In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees.
  • Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.
  • We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.

Benefits

  • We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth.
  • In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees.
  • Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
  • Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more.

Company info

  • At Firestorm, we're on a mission to revolutionize how defense solutions are designed and delivered.
  • Our goal is to empower U.S. ally nations to effectively deter aggressors-regardless of their defense budget-through innovative, cost-efficient technologies.
  • We call this vision "democratized deterrence." As a VC-backed company at the intersection of defense and Silicon Valley, we're pioneering the development of mission-adaptable aerial vehicles that put power back into the hands of operators.
  • By prioritizing operator effectiveness, we're pioneering a new era of aerial vehicle design.
  • We aim to upend the traditional defense procurement model by delivering world-class capabilities at a fraction of the usual cost.
  • Join us at Firestorm as we redefine defense procurement, making cutting-edge technology accessible to all at a fraction of the cost.
  • Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work.

Equal opportunity

  • Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices.
  • All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.
  • We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
  • Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment.

Visa & Work Authorization

  • Must be a U.S. Person (citizen or permanent resident) and able to work on-site in San Diego
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This listing is sourced directly from Firestorm's careers page and normalized into a canonical job model.