Hardware Engineer, San Francisco

Hardware Engineer

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Company Description

Must be eligible to obtain a U.S. security clearance

We're seeking a Hardware Engineer to lead the mechanical and thermal design of rugged, high-performance defense platforms. You'll work on structural simulation, thermal management, and rapid prototyping-taking systems from concept to field validation. This is a highly hands-on role that involves testing, iteration, and close collaboration with cross-functional teams.

Job Description

Thermal & Structural Engineering

Design and validate active and passive thermal management systems for high-power laser components
Conduct FEA for stress, vibration, modal analysis, and thermal performance using tools like ANSYS or SolidWorks Simulation
Optimize designs for durability, weight, and thermal reliability under dynamic load conditions

Mechanical Design & Prototyping

Create 3D CAD models for structural and thermal hardware using SolidWorks, Creo, or equivalent
Rapidly build and iterate mechanical prototypes using CNC, additive manufacturing, or other methods
Plan and conduct environmental tests: vibration, shock, and field robustness trials

Material Selection & DFM

Select and qualify metals, polymers, and composites based on thermal, mechanical, and EMI requirements
Run DFM reviews to optimize geometry, tolerances, and manufacturability
Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturers to transition prototypes to production

Manufacturing & Documentation

Generate GD&T drawings, BOMs, and assembly instructions
Ensure compliance with MIL-STD and ITAR standards throughout hardware lifecycle
Support final assembly, system integration, and field testing

Cross-Functional Integration

Partner with optics, firmware, electronics, and control systems teams to integrate your designs into full systems
Provide hands-on support during product builds and test cycles

Qualifications

2-8 years in mechanical or hardware engineering (defense, aerospace, robotics, or similar)
Proficient in CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo, etc.)
Strong in FEA tools for thermal and structural analysis (ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation)
Experience with CFD, heat transfer simulation, and vibration/shock testing
Hands-on with prototyping and fixture development
Familiarity with material properties, design tolerances, and manufacturing methods
BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
Hyper Engineer - you feel most alive when you're building, breaking, and improving physical systems
Strong problem-solving skills, fast execution, and excellent communication in cross-functional environments
Experience with vacuum or environmental chamber testing
Familiarity with optical alignment or laser safety standards
Background in EMI/EMC shielding and design
Experience with ITAR compliance or active security clearance

Additional Information

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

Apply

Location:: San Francisco

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