Job Title: Mechanical Engineer III
Job Description
This role provides advanced mechanical engineering support for complex aerospace electro-mechanical systems. The Mechanical Engineer III works within a cross-functional team of mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineers, along with machinists and assembly technicians, to design, analyze, and transition rugged electric machines and controllers into production. The position focuses on innovative mechanical design, structural and thermal analysis, and problem-solving within strict aerospace and military environmental constraints, while collaborating closely with customers, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
Responsibilities
Provide mechanical engineering support for company projects across the full product lifecycle, from concept through production.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams including mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, manufacturing engineers, machinists, and assembly technicians to develop integrated electro-mechanical solutions.
Develop innovative mechanical design solutions for electro-mechanical structures, electric machine design, electrical packaging, and thermal and structural challenges while adhering to aerospace and MIL environmental constraints.
Apply first-principles, physics-based thinking to analyze and solve engineering problems of varied scope and complexity.
Design, develop, modify, and evaluate rugged electric machines and controllers for use in aerospace applications.
Determine design approaches, assumptions, and key parameters to meet performance, reliability, and environmental requirements.
Create detailed 3D CAD models of components and assemblies using SOLIDWORKS.
Create and review comprehensive engineering drawing packages for manufacturing, ensuring accuracy and clarity.
Perform structural and thermal analysis using FEA tools such as SOLIDWORKS Simulation and ANSYS Mechanical Workbench, and support related testing activities.
Support proto@type and first article New Product Introduction (NPI) builds, including troubleshooting and design refinement.
Assist in transitioning programs to production by resolving build issues, working with suppliers, developing production tooling, and creating work instructions.
Interface with customers and vendors to ensure products and components meet customer specifications and relevant standards.
Coordinate with suppliers, customers, and integrated product teams to align design, manufacturing, and quality objectives.
Contribute to and comply with quality processes in alignment with AS9100 Quality Management Systems (QMS).
Perform all other duties as assigned by engineering leadership.
Travel occasionally as required to support projects, customers, or suppliers.
Essential Skills
Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or equivalent degree and work experience.
At least 6 years of mechanical engineering experience, preferably with electro-mechanical and aerospace applications.
Advanced working knowledge of SOLIDWORKS CAD software for 3D modeling and detailed drawing creation.
Advanced working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Familiarity and operational understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) principles.
Familiarity and operational understanding of mechanical finite element analysis (FEA) using SOLIDWORKS Simulation and/or ANSYS Mechanical Workbench.
Familiarity and operational understanding of electric motors, generators, motion control electronics, and power electronics.
Advanced knowledge of electro-mechanical system testing, including test equipment theory and operation.
Experience working with complex assemblies such as electric machines, printed circuit board assemblies (PCBAs), harnessing, flexible assemblies, and electronics enclosures.
Familiarity with AS9100 Quality Management Systems (QMS).
Strong technical aptitude with the ability to apply first-principles, physics-based reasoning to complex engineering problems.
Excellent communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively across disciplines and with external stakeholders.
Demonstrated creativity in mechanical design and engineering analysis.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Experience designing rugged electric machines and controllers for aerospace or similarly demanding environments.
Experience in electro-mechanical structures and electrical packaging for harsh environmental conditions.
Experience supporting New Product Introduction (NPI), including proto@type and first article builds.
Experience developing production tooling and detailed work instructions for manufacturing.
Experience interfacing directly with customers and vendors to clarify requirements and resolve technical issues.
Experience coordinating with integrated product teams to align design, manufacturing, and quality activities.
Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities in a fast-paced, project-driven environment.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to producing high-quality engineering documentation.
Work Environment
The role operates in a mixed engineering and manufacturing environment where employees may frequently work near moving mechanical parts. The noise level is typically moderate and consistent with an active production and test setting. The position involves close collaboration with engineers, machinists, and assembly technicians, as well as periodic interaction with customers and suppliers. Occasional travel may be required to support project needs. Reasonable accommodations are available to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.
Job Type & Location
This is a Permanent position based out of Goleta, CA.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $115000.00 - $140000.00/yr.
Medical Insurance: Dental Insurance: Vision Insurance: .Disability Insurance: Financial and Retirement Benefits401(k) or Retirement Plans: (FSAs):.Health Savings Accounts (HSAs): Tax-advantaged accounts paired with high-deductible health plans.
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Goleta,CA.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Jun 5, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
