Mechanical Engineer - Ground Support Equipment and Packaging in San Diego, California at Firestorm

Who We Are At Firestorm, we are building the future of expeditionary defense manufacturing and autonomous systems. Modern conflict has exposed a fundamental problem: the systems needed most by operators are often too expensive, too slow to produce, and too difficult to sustain at scale. Firestorm exists to change that.
We develop mission-adaptable aerial systems and deployable manufacturing infrastructure designed to put capability directly into the hands of the warfighter. From modular unmanned aircraft to xCell -- our deployable microfactory -- our goal is to make defense systems rapidly deployable, adaptable, and producible at the point of need.
We are looking for builders, operators, and problem-solvers who want to work on meaningful technology with real-world impact.
About the Role
As a Mechanical Engineer focused on Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and Packaging, you will own the design and delivery of the tooling, handling fixtures, and ruggedized transport solutions that enable Firestorm’s sUAS platforms to be built, moved, maintained, and fielded reliably. You’ll work closely with airframe, systems, manufacturing, and operations teams to translate real-world field and production needs into practical hardware—balancing durability, weight, cost, safety, and ease of use.
This is a hands-on, full-time role with ownership from concept through deployment: develop requirements, create CAD and drawings, perform analysis, prototype and iterate, qualify designs through test, and release complete documentation for internal builds and external vendors. You will also support fielding and test events to validate that GSE and packaging perform as intended in operational conditions, and you’ll continuously improve designs based on feedback from production and end users.  What You'll Do

• Design and develop ground support equipment including handling fixtures, maintenance stands, and field tooling for Firestorm’s sUAS platforms.
• Own aircraft packaging design: develop transit case configurations, custom foam packing schemes, and protective enclosures that meet MIL-STD environmental and drop requirements.
• Develop multiple packaging solutions for Firestorm’s sUAS manufactured from both fixed lines and xCell mobile manufacturing unit.
• Perform and support structural analysis on GSE and packaging to validate designs under transport, handling, and operational loads.
• Develop and execute test plans to validate GSE and packaging designs; support drop testing, vibration testing, and environmental qualification as required.
• Collaborate with aircraft mechanical, electrical, and systems engineers to ensure GSE and packaging designs are compatible with aircraft interfaces, payload configurations, and field maintenance needs.
• Generate and maintain engineering documentation: drawings, BOMs, assembly procedures, packing instructions, and field use guides.
• Interface with vendors and contract manufacturers to source and procure GSE components and custom packaging solutions.
• Support fielding activities—traveling to test sites and customer locations to validate GSE and packaging in operational conditions.
• Participate in design reviews and provide input on GSE and packaging considerations across the broader hardware program.

Minimum Qualifications  

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
• 3+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in the aerospace, defense, or ruggedized systems industry
• Proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks preferred; NX or PTC Creo acceptable)
• Experience designing ground support equipment, transit packaging, or handling fixtures for aerospace or defense hardware
• Familiarity with MIL-STD-810 environmental test requirements and packaging standards such as MIL-HDBK-304, ASTM D4169, etc.
• Hands-on experience with fabrication, assembly, and hardware validation
• Strong knowledge of materials, fasteners, and mechanical interfaces relevant to fielded systems
• Proficiency in FEA (ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation) for structural validation of GSE components
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and dynamic startup environment
• U.S. Citizenship required due to ITAR regulations & the ability to obtain and maintain a Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance

Work Environment

• This role is based in San Diego, CA.
• We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
• Domestic Travel up to 2 total weeks, in support of test events.

This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment. 
Compensation
US Salary Range: $90,000 - $120,000 USD
The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs. Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
Benefits & Perks   Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees. Here are just a few ways that we show our appreciation:

• We offer comprehensive medical, dental, and visions plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan to invest in your long-term retirement goals
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• Extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November, & December.
• Generous Parental Leave 
• Lifestyle Spending Account
• FSA 
• DCFSA
• HSA
• Hospital Indemnity insurance 
• Critical Illness insurance 
• Accident insurance 
• Basic Life/AD&D, short-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well. 

Export Control Compliance   To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.   Equal Opportunity Statement   Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.   Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.