Lead Mechanical Engineer

Location: Must be based in Torrance, California, United States

Salary: $165,500–$241,500 USD per year

Company

hirify.global is a defense technology startup focused on rebuilding the American drone industrial base through high-performance, combat-tested unmanned systems.

What you will do

• Own hardware design for products or key subsystems from conceptual phase through mass production.
• Translate requirements into defensible engineering architectures and design decisions.
• Perform detailed design trades using CAD, FEA, and first principles.
• Lead design reviews and create high-quality engineering drawings.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and supply chain teams on build instructions, tooling, and vendor selection.
• Develop, mentor, and manage junior mechanical engineers.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• 8+ years of experience in fast-paced engineering or manufacturing environments.
• Strong engineering fundamentals and first principles problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with CAD software such as Solidworks or NX.
• Must be authorized to work in the United States.

Nice to have

• Experience managing and leading engineering teams.
• Background in UAV design, piloting, or hobbyist drone work.
• Experience in high-volume, cost-sensitive industries like automotive or consumer electronics.
• Subject matter expertise in structural, thermal, vibration, or CFD analysis.
• Hands-on fabrication skills including machining, welding, or CNC.

Culture & Benefits

• Fast-paced, hands-on startup environment focused on rapid design and deployment.
• Opportunity to be a foundational member of the mechanical engineering team.
• Competitive compensation package including equity grants.
• Equal opportunity employer committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace.