Founding Mechanical Engineer (Hardware Hiring Tech)

An early-stage startup that helps hardware-focused companies in space, defense, manufacturing and robotic systems evaluate mechanical talent is hiring its first mechanical engineer. The role blends hands-on design skill with domain interviewing: you will learn how experienced mechanical leads work and convert that into online skills assessments that scale.

What you’ll own

• Chart the range of mechanical jobs in aerospace and defense, the abilities each demands, and ways to test them remotely
• Interview mechanical leads in propulsion, thermal and structures at client companies to learn their goals and what strong candidates look like
• Create CAD-based exercises in SolidWorks, OnShape and Autodesk tools that mirror real workflows and reveal engineering judgment
• Write guides that help candidates fluent in one CAD platform apply their skills on another
• Turn domain knowledge into rule-based scoring guides and clear evaluation criteria that work across clients

Who thrives here

• Four to ten years as a design-focused mechanical engineer, centered on CAD in aerospace or defense
• Professional fluency in SolidWorks, OnShape or AutoCAD, ideally across more than one platform
• Background at a Series A-E aerospace or defense startup, or a defense prime
• Broad generalist exposure to structures, thermal and manufacturing rather than a narrow specialty; BS or MS in mechanical engineering
• Familiarity with FEA and simulation workflows
• Ability to interview technical leaders and turn their processes into structured evaluation criteria

Hybrid in the San Francisco Bay Area. Visa transfers considered; new sponsorship is unlikely.