Aventra Defense Systems is seeking a mid-level Mechanical Engineer to own the design and productization of subsystems within our high-altitude platform product line — from early prototype through a field-ready, producible design. This is a hands-on, individual-contributor role with clear subsystem ownership: you'll take a specific piece of the high-altitude system and drive it from where it stands today toward a production-ready product.
Key Responsibilities Subsystem Design- Own mechanical design of an assigned high-altitude subsystem, building on existing prototypes and designs
- Design for reliability, manufacturability, and cost at the subsystem level
- Run bench and field testing to validate performance across environmental and altitude conditions
Productization- Drive the transition from working prototype to a field-ready, producible design
- Identify and resolve manufacturing, sourcing, and reliability issues before they reach production
- Support production handoff once a design is field-validated
Integration & Iteration- Coordinate with electrical and software teams on actuation, control, and sensor feedback interfaces relevant to the subsystem
- Incorporate flight test data and field feedback into iterative design improvements
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
- 3-6 years of industry experience in mechanical design, ideally including high-altitude, pneumatic/fluidic, or release/deployment mechanisms
- Proficiency in CAD tools such as SolidWorks or OnShape, with a demonstrable portfolio of designs you've taken from concept through hardware
- Hands-on prototyping and testing experience
- US Citizen with ability to obtain and maintain security clearance
Preferred Qualifications- Experience with high-altitude balloon systems, valves, ballast/release mechanisms, or other stratospheric platform hardware
- Aerospace or defense hardware background
- Startup/small company experience
- Competitive salary commensurate with experience
- Generous health coverage for employee and family, premium fully covered
- 4% 401k match
- PTO and Sick Leave
Travel & Work EnvironmentTravel Requirements- Travel up to 25% to customer sites, and field test locations
- Ability to work in austere field conditions and military operational environments
- Flexibility to support urgent operational requirements and schedule changes
Work Environment- In-person role based in Herndon, VA
- Collaborative environment supporting critical national security missions
- Direct support to warfighter capabilities and mission success
We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses and identifying potential inconsistencies or verification signals in application materials based on available information. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.
| Location | Herndon, VA |
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