Senior Mechanical Engineer, Fuel Cells

WORK LOCATION: Ann Arbor, MI

FLSA STATUS: Exempt

SALARY RANGE: The anticipated salary range for this role is $105,000 to $135,000 annually. This range reflects a good faith estimate based on the targeted level for the role and typical compensation benchmarks across U.S. locations. Actual compensation may vary depending on the selected candidate’s qualifications, experience, geographical location, and internal alignment.

SUMMARY

The Senior Mechanical Engineer is responsible for leading the design, development, and validation of complex mechanical systems and subsystems for Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) power systems used in uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) and in portable power generators. This role demonstrates a strong blend of technical depth, design execution, and leadership capability. The engineer independently owns major subsystem designs—balancing performance, reliability, and manufacturability—and contributes to the broader engineering architecture through technical review and mentorship. 

The Senior Engineer provides hands-on leadership during prototype builds, test campaigns, and production transitions. They are recognized for their expertise in mechanical design and cross-functional coordination, driving technical excellence and contributing to design standards and process improvements across multiple programs. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

The following job functions are a basic requirement but are not limited to and may be assigned other duties. 

• Lead the design, modeling, and analysis of major mechanical and structural subsystems for SOFC power systems and their supporting products. 

• Perform and review tolerance analysis, structural analysis (FEA), and materials selection. 

• Oversee design documentation, drawing release, and configuration management activities. 

• Coordinate design integration across disciplines—mechanical, electrical, and software. 

• Guide prototype builds, resolving issues related to manufacturability, fit, and performance. 

• Develop and execute test plans to validate structural integrity and system performance. 

• Analyze data, present results, and make informed decisions. 

• Lead and participate in design reviews (CoDR, PDR, CDR) and incorporate feedback into designs. 

• Support production readiness and quality verification for new and existing products. 

• Mentor junior engineers and CAD specialists, promoting technical best practices and efficient workflows. 

• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in design standards, configuration management, and documentation processes. 

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field required. 

• 4–7 years of relevant experience in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with demonstrated ownership of major subsystems or assemblies. 

• Experience with Fuel Cells, Power Generators, High Temperature systems, Fluid management systems, or DC Power Electronics 

• Proven experience developing products for aerospace, defense, or similarly regulated environments. 

• Experience supporting prototype, production, and test activities in a hands-on capacity. 

• Advanced proficiency with CAD modeling and drafting (SolidWorks preferred). 

• Deep understanding of GD&T, mechanical drawing standards, and documentation control. 

• Working knowledge of materials, composites, machined parts, and structural integration. 

• Experience performing FEA and interpreting results for design optimization. 

• Familiarity with PDM/PLM systems (e.g., SolidWorks PDM, Windchill). 

• Strong technical leadership and decision-making skills. 

• Strong working knowledge of processes for prototyping and large-scale manufacturing. 

• Excellent communication and collaboration across multi-disciplinary teams. 

• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving and root-cause analysis capabilities. 

• Organized and detail-oriented with experience managing multiple design tasks simultaneously. 

• Ability to mentor others and uphold engineering rigor and design quality. 

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering. 

• 6–8 years of experience designing mechanical systems for UAS or defense applications. 

• Experience leading subsystem integration efforts and participating in flight or environmental testing. 

• Experience with advanced analysis tools (FEA, CFD, or fatigue analysis). 

• Familiarity with composite layup design, bonded structures, or lightweight mechanisms. 

• Experience developing and reviewing engineering standards or process documentation. 

• Familiarity with systems engineering practices and requirements traceability. 

• Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence technical direction. 

• Ability to synthesize feedback from multiple stakeholders into actionable design decisions. 

• Continuous improvement mindset, with a focus on efficiency and repeatable design excellence. 

• Comfort operating in fast-paced environments with evolving program requirements. 

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH BENEFITS

• Matching 401(k)
• Paid PTO
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Group Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
• HSA and FSA Options
• Critical Care Plan
• Accident Care Plan

CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS

This position may require access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). To comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants will be asked to provide specific documentation to verify a US person’s status under the ITAR and the EAR.

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

The work environment may involve a standard office setting while also incorporating elements of a production area. Employees will use standard office equipment, including computers, and must demonstrate stamina to sit or stand while maintaining attention to detail despite potential interruptions. The role may require occasional activities such as walking, climbing, stooping, crouching, and bending. Vision is necessary for reading printed materials and a computer screen, while hearing and speech are essential for effective communication both in person and over the telephone. Additionally, the position may necessitate travel by air or automobile. Employees may be required to use personal protective equipment, including safety glasses, safety shoes, and shop coats, to ensure safety in the production environment. Employees may be able to lift up to 30 pounds as needed.

REDWIRE DEFENSE TECH IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Redwire Defense Tech is committed to providing access, equal opportunity and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, contact Human Resources. Continued employment remains on an “At-Will” basis.