Forterra

Mechanical Engineer – Mission Modules

Forterra

full-time

Posted on:

Origin:  • 🇺🇸 United States

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Salary

💰 $125,000 - $160,000 per year

Job Level

Mid-LevelSenior

Tech Stack

Assembly

About the role

  • Own the end-to-end mechanical design and integration of mission payloads into Forterra’s autonomy platform
  • Design and package mechanical subsystems, including enclosures, mounts, thermal structures, and interfaces for ruggedized payload integration
  • Create and manage detailed 3D CAD models, drawings, and assemblies using SolidWorks, Creo, or similar tools
  • Perform structural, thermal, and vibration analysis (FEA/CFD) to ensure performance under operational and environmental loads
  • Integrate mission-critical payloads—such as sensors, optics, and RF systems—into vehicle platforms with attention to mechanical, thermal, and access constraints
  • Lead mechanical integration for subsystems involving hydraulic and pneumatic components
  • Drive rapid prototyping and iterative development using additive manufacturing and hands-on assembly
  • Ensure manufacturability, maintainability, and compliance with MIL-STD-810 and other relevant standards
  • Collaborate cross-functionally and with external vendors to define and validate mechanical interfaces and system requirements
  • Support field integration, testing, and troubleshooting across lab, range, and operational environments
  • Participate in test campaigns, user feedback sessions, and system sustainment efforts
  • Work closely with cross-functional teams—including electrical, autonomy, and systems engineering—as well as with government stakeholders and external subsystem partners

Requirements

  • 5+ years of experience in mechanical design and integration for autonomous systems, defense platforms, or robotics
  • Deep proficiency in CAD modeling and mechanical drafting (Inventor, SolidWorks, Creo, or equivalent)
  • Hands-on experience with structural, thermal, and shock/vibe simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL)
  • Proven ability to design rugged systems meeting constraints for sealing, shock, vibration, and heat dissipation
  • Knowledge of vehicle systems, especially hydraulic and pneumatic subsystem integration
  • Strong capability in rapid prototyping and additive manufacturing workflows
  • Familiarity with MIL-STD-810, MIL-STD-882, and other defense-relevant environmental and safety standards
  • Experience with DFM/DFA principles and quick-turn prototype iteration
  • U.S. Persons and eligibility for a security clearance
  • Preferred: experience integrating defense-grade payloads or weapon systems
  • Preferred: experience integrating sensors, optics, and other complex mechatronic systems
  • Preferred: background designing actuated or gimbaled electro-mechanical assemblies
  • Preferred: knowledge of interface control documentation and system-level requirement flow down
  • Preferred: field testing experience supporting live-fire, operational, or military exercises
  • Preferred: familiarity with additive manufacturing tools and workflows
  • Strong cross-functional communication skills in high-stakes environments