Mechanical Engineer, Associate

Overview

Associate Mechanical Engineer – Drone Defense Turret Systems

Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup focused on developing a small, autonomous gun turret with advanced computer vision and control systems to target and neutralize drones and loitering munitions. Our engineering-first culture values technical excellence and innovation. The company founders have successful exits from two previous ventures, totaling $180M in 2022, and ACS is committed to achieving real-world impact with our groundbreaking technologies.

This position requires you to work onsite at our office in Austin, TX.

We are looking for a highly experienced Mechanical Designer with strong expertise in mechanical simulations and electromechanical integration. The ideal candidate will design for durability, reliability, and robustness according to MIL-STD-810 standards, ensuring products meet environmental, vibration, and shock requirements while integrating complex electromechanical components into systems.

• Design and develop mechanical systems that meet MIL-STD-810 specifications, ensuring robustness under vibration, shock, thermal, and environmental conditions.
• Perform mechanical simulations (FEA, modal, vibration, thermal) to assess durability and reliability under operational stress.
• Collaborate with electrical and systems engineers to integrate electromechanical components, ensuring seamless interaction between mechanical structures and electrical systems.
• Lead structural integrity testing and analysis to meet environmental test criteria for military-grade systems.
• Develop and document mechanical design specifications, including detailed drawings, simulation reports, and testing protocols.
• Conduct testing and validation to ensure mechanical designs meet required performance and safety standards.
• Support prototype development and work with manufacturing teams to ensure designs are feasible and cost-effective.
• Maintain a focus on product quality, safety, and reliability, adhering to Design for Manufacturing and Design for Reliability best practices.
• Contribute to cross-functional design reviews, identifying mechanical and electromechanical risks early in the development cycle.

• A passion for designing robust mechanical systems that operate in harsh environments.
• Experience in mechanical design with expertise in electromechanical integration.
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• Hands-on experience performing structural, vibration, and thermal simulations using tools such as ANSYS, Solid Works (preferred).
• Proficient in 3D CAD software such as Solid Works (preferred), CATIA, or Creo.
• Strong understanding of MIL-STD-810 requirements for mechanical durability, including vibration, shock, temperature, and humidity testing.
• Skilled in electromechanical integration, ensuring compatibility between mechanical structures and electrical components (e.g., wiring harnesses, sensors, actuators).
• Experience conducting Finite Element Analysis (FEA), Modal Analysis, and Thermal Analysis.
• Ability to collaborate with electrical, software, and systems engineers to develop integrated solutions.
• Familiarity with Design for Manufacturing (DFM) and Design for Reliability (DFR) principles.

• Direct experience with MIL-STD-810 (vibration, temperature, shock tests).
• Knowledge of MIL-S-901D for naval shock testing and MIL-STD-461 for EMI/EMC standards.
• Familiarity with electromagnetic compatibility considerations in mechanical design.
• Experience in rapid prototyping and Additive Manufacturing (3D printing).
• Familiarity with fluid dynamics and heat transfer principles.
• Experience with shock absorption and damping systems for mechanical structures.

• ACS Equity Package
• Paid Time Off

Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.