Location: Houston, TX Department: Engineering Reports To: Director of Engineering Job Type: Full-Time Salary Range: $110k -130k About us: Paladin's mission is to deploy autonomous drones to 911 calls. With the latest LTE-enabled drone technology, first responders can increase their situational awareness, operate more effectively, and save lives. Our vision is to have a UAV responding to every 911 call in the United States by 2027. Information is paramount, technology exists and is rapidly improving, and the need is there. We want to help. Job Description: Paladin Drones is a rapidly growing company at the forefront of the drone industry. We seek a talented Mechanical Engineer to join our team and help us design, prototype, and manufacture our cutting-edge drone technology. Responsibilities: * Design and manufacture prototypes for a Drone onboard compute enclosure * Develop detailed mechanical designs for UAVs, including airframes, propulsion systems, and payload integration * Identify and select materials that optimize performance, weight, and durability * Evaluate and integrate components such as motors, propellers, batteries, and sensors * Perform stress, thermal, and vibration analysis to ensure structural integrity * Revise existing mechanical components and assemblies * Build and assemble prototypes using manufacturing techniques such as CNC machining, 3D printing, and composite layups * Collaborate with technicians and suppliers to ensure quality fabrication * Create detailed design documentation, including drawings, specifications, and technical reports. * Develop and execute testing plans to validate designs and ensure compliance with regulations. * Work closely with electrical, software, and systems engineers to integrate all drone components seamlessly * Liaise with customers or stakeholders to meet application-specific requirements * Stay updated on emerging drone regulations and technologies Requirements: * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field * 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in the drone industry * Practical understanding of thermodynamics/heat transfer, engineering materials, kinematics, and stress analysis * High proficiency in CAD software, such as SolidWorks or Autodesk Inventor - including FEA proficiency * Knowledge of manufacturing processes and materials * Experience designing reliable, maintainable, manufacturable, and usable product * Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail * Excellent communication and collaboration skills Preferred Qualifications: * Experience with Rapid Prototyping * Familiar with additive prototyping and manufacturing * Experience with applying mechanical engineering principles to design * Experience with aerospace or robotics * Intermediate electronics and electrical knowledge