Rapid Prototyping Mechanical / Structures Engineer

HavocAI • San Diego, CA

15h

About The Position

HavocAI is seeking a Rapid Prototyping Mechanical / Structures Engineer to transform early aircraft concepts into physical flying platforms.
In this role, you will work at the center of Havoc’s advanced development program, building and iterating airframe structures at high velocity. You will design composite structures, fabricate components, and develop tooling that enables rapid prototype cycles.
This is a hands-on engineering role where design work and physical hardware development happen side-by-side. The ideal candidate is comfortable moving between CAD, workshop fabrication, structural testing, and flight readiness.
If you thrive in fast-paced environments and enjoy turning ideas into flying machines quickly, this role offers the opportunity to make an immediate impact.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• Experience designing and fabricating composite airframe structures
• Hands-on UAV, drone, or experimental aircraft build experience
• Proficiency with CAD tools for mechanical and structural design
• Comfortable working in lab, shop, and field test environments
• Strong bias toward execution and rapid iteration

Nice To Haves

• Experience designing composite tooling and molds
• Experience with lightweight structural optimization
• Background in experimental aircraft or high-performance UAV programs
• Experience designing structures for scalable production
• Familiarity with aerospace structural analysis tools

Responsibilities

• Translate conceptual aircraft designs into functional prototype airframes
• Design and fabricate composite structures for UAV platforms
• Develop and manufacture carbon fiber and composite airframe components
• Design modular wing systems, fuselage structures, and structural assemblies
• Design and build molds, fixtures, and tooling for rapid hardware iteration
• Develop manufacturing processes that support repeatable builds
• Optimize structures for weight, strength, and durability
• Support structural analysis and validation testing
• Support airframe integration, flight readiness reviews, and structural validation
• Work closely with flight test teams during prototype deployment
• Design structures that can transition from prototype to scalable manufacturing

Benefits

• 100% Employer paid Health, Dental and Vision Insurance for you and your families
• Life Insurance (Employer Paid)
• Ability to participate in the companies 401k program (Matching)
• Unlimited PTO policy with an enforced 2 week minimum
• Equity Package
• Work / Home Office Stipend
• Global Entry
• 16 Week Paid Parental Leave
• Monthly Health and Wellness Stipend

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level