Hardware Engineer - Mechanical & Thermal Systems for Defense Robotics (San Francisco) Job at ZipRecruiter, San Francisco, CA

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  • ZipRecruiter
  • San Francisco, CA

Job Description

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionCompany Description

Must be eligible to obtain a U.S. security clearance

We're seeking a Hardware Engineer to lead the mechanical and thermal design of rugged, high-performance defense platforms. You'll work on structural simulation, thermal management, and rapid prototypingtaking systems from concept to field validation. This is a highly hands-on role that involves testing, iteration, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Job Description

Thermal & Structural Engineering

  • Design and validate active and passive thermal management systems for high-power laser components

  • Conduct FEA for stress, vibration, modal analysis, and thermal performance using tools like ANSYS or SolidWorks Simulation

  • Optimize designs for durability, weight, and thermal reliability under dynamic load conditions

Mechanical Design & Prototyping

  • Create 3D CAD models for structural and thermal hardware using SolidWorks, Creo, or equivalent

  • Rapidly build and iterate mechanical prototypes using CNC, additive manufacturing, or other methods

  • Plan and conduct environmental tests: vibration, shock, and field robustness trials

Material Selection & DFM

  • Select and qualify metals, polymers, and composites based on thermal, mechanical, and EMI requirements

  • Run DFM reviews to optimize geometry, tolerances, and manufacturability

  • Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturers to transition prototypes to production

Manufacturing & Documentation

  • Generate GD&T drawings, BOMs, and assembly instructions

  • Ensure compliance with MIL-STD and ITAR standards throughout hardware lifecycle

  • Support final assembly, system integration, and field testing

Cross-Functional Integration

  • Partner with optics, firmware, electronics, and control systems teams to integrate your designs into full systems

  • Provide hands-on support during product builds and test cycles

Qualifications

  • 28 years in mechanical or hardware engineering (defense, aerospace, robotics, or similar)

  • Proficient in CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo, etc.)
  • Strong in FEA tools for thermal and structural analysis (ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation)

  • Experience with CFD, heat transfer simulation, and vibration/shock testing

  • Hands-on with prototyping and fixture development

  • Familiarity with material properties, design tolerances, and manufacturing methods

  • BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

  • Hyper Engineer you feel most alive when youre building, breaking, and improving physical systems

  • Strong problem-solving skills, fast execution, and excellent communication in cross-functional environments

  • Experience with vacuum or environmental chamber testing

  • Familiarity with optical alignment or laser safety standards

  • Background in EMI/EMC shielding and design

  • Experience with ITAR compliance or active security clearance

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

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Job Tags

Full time,

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