Mechanical Engineer

Job Title: Mechanical Engineer
Company: Grid.aero
Location: Onsite 3 days/week [San Leandro, CA]

About Us:
Grid.aero is a VC‑backed aviation startup tackling complex challenges in both defense and commercial markets. We are focused on solving real‑world problems that will shape the future of the industry. Led by aerospace veterans and supported by leading venture firms, Grid is at the forefront of developing autonomous systems that will revolutionize how goods move through the skies.

Be part of a fast‑growing, high‑impact startup from day one. At Grid, your work will shape critical industries, driving innovation at the intersection of national security and global commerce.

Role Overview:
We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to be one of the first and most important hires. In this role, you'll play a key role in the development of the structures and mechanical systems for our proof of concept airplane. This is a chance to contribute from the ground up while working alongside experienced aerospace founders and some of the best minds in the space.

As an early hire, you'll help lay the foundation for the company's future growth, both technically and organizationally. You'll have full visibility into our mission, work closely with leadership, and be empowered to drive innovation. If you're excited about building something world‑changing and want to play a critical role in shaping an early‑stage company, this opportunity is for you.

What You'll Do:

• Scope: You will develop structures and mechanical systems including airframe, landing gear, flight controls, propulsion, payload, and other flight‑critical systems.
• Collaborate: You will work cooperatively with an incredibly talented and kind team of systems, aerodynamic, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers to identify, simplify, and solve complex problems.
• Design: You will swiftly generate designs for simple, practical, and cutting edge mechanical systems and structures. Using first‑principle and advanced engineering analysis methods as required, you will predict, optimize, and validate system performance.
• Build: You will specify, source, procure, fabricate, assemble, and integrate structures and mechanical systems.
• Test: You will define, setup, execute, and report ground and flight tests to ensure designs meet functional, safety, and regulatory requirements.
• Document and Communicate: You will document and communicate your engineering with models, technical drawings, design reviews, and reports.
• Support: You will support structures and mechanical systems through production and into flight test to ensure the aircraft remains operationally available and continuously provides valuable mechanical engineering data.
• Improve: You will generate and maintain standard operating procedures for mechanical engineering across the product lifecycle.

Who You Are:

• Mission‑Driven: You're passionate about solving big, complex problems through technology and driven by the chance to change industries.
• Innovator: You thrive on the challenge of working with cutting‑edge technologies and pushing the boundaries of what's possible.
• Builder: You enjoy the excitement and impact of working at an early‑stage startup where your contributions directly shape the future.
• Collaborative: You work well with diverse, cross‑functional teams and are excited to lead, mentor, and inspire others.

Key

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field. A Master's degree is a plus.
• 3‑5 years of experience in aerospace mechanical engineering, preferably with exposure to designing, building, testing, certifying, and/or operating airframe, landing gear, propulsion, and/or electromechanically actuated flight control systems.
• Proficiency with CAD/PLM software (e.g., CATIA, Solid Works, 3DExperience, or similar) for designing and maintaining mechanical parts, assemblies, and installations.
• Proficiency with mechanical engineering principles including statics and dynamics, mechanics of materials, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, controls, reliability, and manufacturing.
• Experience with classical and advanced methods for structural, thermal, and/or fluid analysis and/or…