Staff Mechanical Engineer

The role

This person will lead the design, integration and testing of critical structures and systems for autonomous long range cargo aircraft. The work runs from early concept through prototype builds, ground tests and flight tests.

What you will do

• Lead the architecture, design, integration, and validation of critical aircraft structures
• Own complex aircraft hardware from early concept through detailed design, prototype build, ground test, flight test, and iteration
• Drive system level integration across structures, avionics, propulsion, and payload systems
• Partner closely with manufacturing to ensure designs are buildable, testable, and scalable
• Participate in aircraft builds, integration efforts, and flight test campaigns
• Mentor engineers and help define engineering standards and best practices
• Help identify and resolve system level design challenges across the aircraft

Required qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• Deep experience designing aircraft or flight vehicle structures, mechanisms, and subsystem integration
• Track record of owning novel hardware from a blank page, including first principles sizing, loads analysis, and trade studies
• Experience taking hardware from concept through build, testing, and deployment
• Strong system level thinking and ability to resolve complex integration challenges
• Strong track record of working directly with prototype builds, hardware integration, and test campaigns
• Ability to collaborate across engineering, manufacturing, and flight operations teams

Nice to have

• Experience with composite structures or lightweight aerospace systems
• Experience leading hardware development in robotics, aerospace, or autonomous systems
• Experience working in startup or rapid hardware development environments

Benefits

• Stock options
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid time off
• Paid holidays
• 401k
• Life insurance
• Relocation assistance for candidates moving to Austin

Before you apply

• Due to U.S. government contract requirements, this role is limited to U.S. citizens, U.S. permanent residents, or candidates from specific countries authorized under applicable export control regulati

About the company

Skyways designs, builds, and operates fully autonomous long range cargo aircraft. Founded in 2017, it is backed by Y Combinator and holds a $37M AFWERX STRATFI award from the U.S. Air Force.