Job Details

Staff Mechanical Engineer

  2025-10-10     Empirical Systems Aerospace     San Luis Obispo,CA  
Description:

Staff Mechanical Engineer

ESAero is seeking a self-motivated Mechanical Engineer to join our team in San Luis Obispo, CA. The engineer will assist in the multi-functional product development of new aircraft design and manufacturing, while collaborating with other engineering disciplines and project personnel.

Responsibilities and Duties:

  • Create or modify 3-D models, detailed drawings, assemblies and installations, system requirements, interface/supplier control drawings, performance specifications, system checkout procedures and statements of work.
  • Structural or thermal analysis of structures and systems.
  • Support the creation of system requirements, trade studies, sub-component and test plans.
  • Optimize designs for manufacturability (DFM), assembly (DFA), and maintainability.
  • Support the creation of engineering development work orders, build guides and travelers.
  • Collaborate with machinists, technicians, and manufacturing engineers to iterate quickly.
  • Support and/or lead the development, test, verification, and validation of mechanical systems.
  • Coordinate with internal and external integrated product teams.
  • Provide manufacturing, component test and ground/flight test support.
  • Utilize PDM for revision and configuration control.
  • Create and participate in design reviews.
  • Provide mentorship and technical guidance to junior engineers.
  • Contribute to long-term strategic planning within the discipline.

Required Qualifications and Skills:

  • Bachelor's Degree - Engineering.
  • Minimum 9 years of mechanical design experience.
  • Expert with SolidWorks and SolidWorks PDM (or similar).
  • Expert at detailing drawings to include appropriate use of GD&T.
  • Experience with HyperWorks (or similar).
  • Proficient at system integration and collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
  • Experience with Full Lifecycle Product Development.
  • Hands-on experience working with machine shops, integrating prototype designs, and conducting validation tests.
  • Advanced understanding of structures, mechanisms, system layout, and materials.
  • Proficiency with the Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
  • Solid organizational skills and detailed oriented.
  • Strong Writing Skills.
  • US Citizenship Required.
  • Willing to relocate to San Luis Obispo, CA.

Desirable Qualifications and Skills:

  • Fundamental understanding of other disciplines including stress, dynamics, thermal analysis, production, electronics, systems engineering, etc.
  • Experience with composite design and layup.
  • Experience with DFM/A.
  • Experience transitioning a product to production.
  • Experience with Risk Management.
  • Familiarity with Military standards relating to the mechanical design of aircraft.
  • Familiarity with Engineering Change Requests/Orders ECR/Os.
  • Experience with a gated design process/workflow.
  • Experience with supplier management and procurement (such as SOWs, RFPs, and/or vendor management).

Comprehensive Benefits & Perks:

  • Health & Wellness: Choose from three health, dental, and vision plans - including a 100% employer-paid option covering both employees and their families.
  • Paid Time Off: Enjoy 120 hours of PTO, 80 hours accrued plus an additional 40 hours of holiday break pay in addition to Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year's Day off.
  • Life Insurance: $25,000 employer-paid life insurance policy, with the option to purchase additional coverage for employees and their families.
  • Supplemental Coverage: Access optional benefits such as Critical Illness, Hospital Indemnity, Accident Insurance, and Critical Illness with Skin Cancer coverage.
  • Health Savings Account (HSA): Take advantage of a tax-advantaged HSA to manage medical expenses.
  • Retirement Savings: 401(k) with a company match to support your financial future.
  • Paid Holidays: Enjoy 9 paid holidays throughout the year.
  • Work Environment: A casual dress code, complimentary snacks, and a welcoming company culture.
  • Ideal Location: Work in an area that offers an outstanding quality of life - a perfect place to live, work, and play!

Company Overview

  • Empirical Systems Aerospace, Inc (ESAero) is a leader in aerospace engineering, product development, and manufacturing, dedicated to delivering high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions to the industry. We specialize in cutting-edge system design, rapid product development, precision manufacturing, comprehensive testing, and technology demonstrations to support the evolving needs of the aerospace community. Committed to excellence, on-time delivery, and continuous growth, we invest in infrastructure to expand our manufacturing and aftermarket capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of engineering services.
  • At ESAero, we dont just build products, we engineer solutions that propel the aerospace industry forward.
  • **This position is fully on-site at ESAero in San Luis Obispo, CA**

ESAero is an equal opportunity employer. E-Verify participation required for employment. Must present proof of authorization to work in the United States. Must be able to pass background check. Hiring Range: $ 130k-190k Salary Exempt (DOE)


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