Mechanical Test Engineer (Defense)

Location: Huntington Beach, California, United States. The role requires eligibility under U.S. ITAR regulations and authorization to work in the United States.

Salary: $105,000–$140,000 USD per year, base salary.

Company

Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology startup developing autonomous defense platforms and scalable manufacturing systems for the United States and its allies.

What you will do

• Plan and execute hands-on testing, from coupon and subscale experiments to vehicle-level qualification and design validation.
• Design and develop mechanical test hardware, fixtures, instrumentation, and laboratory infrastructure.
• Integrate mechanical systems with sensors, actuators, and embedded control hardware.
• Author test plans, lead test readiness reviews, execute tests, and post-process data with multidisciplinary engineering teams.
• Develop hardware procurement, lab automation, test standards, guidelines, and best practices.
• Create test and scripting automation for data acquisition, test execution, data processing, and reporting using Python, MATLAB, or equivalent tools.

Requirements

• At least 1 year of experience testing systems in aerospace, automotive, electronics, or a similar field.
• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, mechatronics, electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics, or physics.
• Strong hands-on problem-solving skills in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
• Ability to systematically troubleshoot hardware and test setups, identify root causes, and communicate findings clearly.
• Must meet U.S. ITAR eligibility requirements and be authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for an export license.
• Availability to work extended hours and weekends when required.

Nice to have

• Master’s or PhD in a relevant engineering, computer science, mathematics, or physics discipline.
• Strong 3D CAD modeling skills using tools such as NX or SolidWorks.
• Familiarity with MIL-STD-810, RTCA DO-160, ASTM, or similar aerospace test standards.
• Three or more years of experience testing systems in aerospace, automotive, electronics, or a similar field.

Culture & Benefits

• Startup environment focused on rapid prototyping, manufacturing innovation, and national security.
• Healthcare, dental, and vision plans.
• Retirement savings and paid time off.
• Performance-based incentives and equity participation.
• Funding for continuing education, training, and professional development.