Senior Mechanical Test Engineer; Aviation

Senior Mechanical Test Engineer (Aviation)

$150,000 - $200,000 + Equity + Relocation + Medical/Dental/Vision + 401k + PTO

Los Angeles, CA

Are you an experienced mechanical engineer with a passion for hands‑on testing and validation, looking to join a high‑growth startup working on cutting‑edge aviation hardware?

This is a rare opportunity to join at an early stage and play a key role in an ambitious, well‑funded company with world‑class engineering leadership, where your work will have immediate and visible impact.

The company operates in the aviation sector, designing and developing next‑generation hardware and flight‑critical components. You'll join a highly skilled, fast‑moving team that is redefining how aircraft hardware is tested, validated, and manufactured.

You will also take a lead role in launching a brand‑new prototyping and test facility, developing test processes, building validation plans, and ensuring all products meet regulations.

This role is ideal for a hands‑on engineer who thrives in a fast‑paced, highly technical startup environment, and wants to shape the foundation of a next generation organization from the ground up.

• Lead mechanical product development and qualification testing, including structural, thermal, fluid, and environmental assessments
• Develop and implement test plans, test fixtures, and acceptance criteria for new hardware
• Collaborate closely with design engineers to validate new product designs and optimize manufacturability
• Set up, build, and optimize test processes, procedures, and lab workflows for the new facility

• Background in mechanical, hardware, or product engineering
• Hands‑on experience with testing, validation, troubleshooting, and mechanical calculations
• Strong CAD skills and knowledge of GD&T, materials, and mechanical design principles
• Experience with structural analysis, FEA, or other engineering validation methods
• Thrives in a high‑growth, startup engineering environment
• Aviation/aerospace experience preferred (automotive/defense also considered)
• Must be a U.S. Citizen or Permanent Resident

The salary advertised is the bracket available for this position. The actual salary paid will be dependent on your level of experience, qualifications and skill set. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitable candidates.