Defense Technology, Aerospace, Manufacturing, Energy, Advanced Propulsion

Mechanical Engineer, Composite Structures & Manufacturing

Victorville, CAOnsiteFull Time$105,000–$180,000 /yrPosted 3 days ago

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Required skills

composite structures
manufacturing
fabrication
flight test
repeatable
scalable
laminate design
structural performance
hand calculations
FEA

Nice to have

aerospace
UAV
composite tooling
process development
production quality
structural analysis

Role summary

Mach Industries is seeking a Mechanical Engineer specializing in composite structures and manufacturing for autonomous defense vehicles. This role involves designing, analyzing, fabricating, and testing composite components from concept to flight test, with a focus on creating repeatable and scalable production processes. Responsibilities include laminate design, structural analysis using FEA, incorporating manufacturability, refining fabrication methods, providing hands-on fabrication support, and validating designs through testing. The ideal candidate will have 2-3 years of experience in composite structures and proficiency with CAD and FEA software.

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

The Role

Mach Industries is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support the design and development of composite structures for next-generation autonomous defense vehicles, with a strong focus on manufacturability. You’ll work across design, analysis, fabrication, and testing, helping take composite components from concept through flight test. You’ll help develop structures and processes that are repeatable and scalable, not just suited to one-off prototypes.

Key Responsibilities

Design and develop composite structures and components for vehicle applications.

Support laminate design and evaluate structural performance using hand calculations and FEA.

Incorporate manufacturability, repeatability, and production scale into designs.

Work with manufacturing teams to refine fabrication methods, tooling, and process documentation.

Provide hands-on fabrication support, including prepreg layup, vacuum bagging, and bonded assemblies.

Support validation testing and compare test results with analysis.

Iterate designs and processes based on fabrication feedback, test results, and production needs.

Contribute to technical documentation and engineering reviews.

Support critical project milestones, including extended hours or weekends when needed.

Required Qualifications

2–3 years of experience designing, analyzing, or building composite structures.

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.

Proficiency with NX or similar CAD software.

Familiarity with FEA using ANSYS or an equivalent tool.

Hands-on experience with composite fabrication, such as prepreg layup, vacuum bagging, or bonded assemblies.

Experience supporting composite hardware through design, fabrication, or testing.

Interest in designing for manufacturability and repeatable production.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience with composite structures for aerospace or UAV applications.

Exposure to composite tooling, process development, or production quality.

Experience comparing structural analysis with physical test results.

Additional Requirements

Available to work extended hours and weekends as needed.

ITAR Requirements

To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

Engineer$105,000—$180,000 USD

At Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends.

Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy:

Competitive Salaries: We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location.

Performance-Based Incentives: Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-win scenario that motivates our team members to excel.

Equity Participation: We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company.

Benefit Packages: Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well-being extends beyond the office.

Professional Development: We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth.

Transparency: We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect.

By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long-term success.

Data PrivacyTo view Mach Industries candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://machindustries.com/privacy-policy.

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.

Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!

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