December 2026 New Graduate Engineer, Mechanical

About the role

This New Graduate Mechanical Engineer position at Mach Industries places you at the center of defense hardware development, where your technical work directly influences the design and performance of critical defense platforms. You will own the end-to-end mechanical lifecycle of subsystem components, transforming initial requirements into tangible, functional hardware solutions. In this capacity, you will be responsible for creating detailed mechanical designs, developing sophisticated prototypes, and refining systems to meet stringent operational standards. The role demands a hands-on approach where you solve complex problems in real time and see your concepts move from theoretical models to physical reality. You will collaborate closely with systems engineers and integration specialists to ensure your mechanical solutions align with broader platform objectives. Your contributions will focus on optimizing designs for reliability, manufacturability, and performance under demanding conditions. This position is ideal for a motivated individual who thrives in a fast-paced, mission-driven environment and wants to build tangible systems that support national defense. By joining Mach Industries, you will play a direct role in advancing the capabilities of cutting-edge autonomous defense technologies.

Key facts

What you'll do

Lead the mechanical design and development of subsystem-level hardware, translating high-level requirements into detailed schematics, CAD models, and production-ready drawings.

Integrate mechanical assemblies with sensors, actuators, and embedded control systems to ensure seamless functionality and alignment with system architecture.

Plan and conduct physical testing, evaluate performance metrics, and iterate on designs using data-driven insights to resolve issues and improve durability.

Perform detailed part selection, manufacturability reviews, and tolerance analysis to streamline production processes and reduce lifecycle costs.

Apply foundational knowledge in thermodynamics, structural mechanics, and materials science to create lightweight, robust, and efficient mechanical solutions.

Author comprehensive test plans, technical documentation, and engineering analyses to clearly communicate design decisions and validation results to cross-functional teams.

Use modeling and simulation tools to assess system behavior, conduct trade studies, and guide design modifications based on predicted performance.

Support critical project schedules, including readiness for extended work hours or weekend shifts to meet critical defense delivery milestones.

Evaluate vendor capabilities and provide technical input for outsourced components to ensure compliance with strict quality and security standards.

Assist in maintaining engineering standards, best practices, and configuration management activities throughout the product development lifecycle.

Contribute to risk assessments, failure mode analysis, and mitigation strategies to enhance system reliability and mission success.

Collaborate with manufacturing teams to refine processes, troubleshoot production issues, and ensure smooth transitions from prototype to low-rate production.

Support technology assessments and research initiatives that inform future defense capabilities and long-term product roadmaps.

Assist in preparing proposals, technical responses, and compliance documentation related to mechanical systems for government and internal reviews.

Requirements

Hold a Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a closely related technical field from an accredited institution.

Possess 1+ years of hands-on experience in mechanical design and prototyping, demonstrated through prior employment, internships, or significant academic projects.

Be currently graduating in 2026 or 2027 with a bachelor's degree, master's degree, or PhD in a relevant technical discipline.

Demonstrate a strong grasp of thermal, structural, and materials fundamentals, applying them to solve practical engineering challenges in demanding environments.

Show proficiency in engineering analysis, including the ability to interpret requirements, develop models, and validate system performance against established criteria.

Exhibit strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to prepare clear technical reports and present complex information to diverse audiences.

Maintain attention to detail and organizational skills to manage multiple tasks, prioritize effectively, and meet strict deadlines in a regulated environment.

Commit to working in compliance with U.S. defense regulations, export control laws, and security protocols necessary for handling controlled technologies.

Display the capacity to collaborate within multidisciplinary teams and contribute positively to a dynamic, fast-paced organizational culture.

Be prepared to undergo employment verification and background checks as part of the hiring process and security requirements.

Nice to have

Bring intermediate experience with 3D modeling and CAD tools such as NX or SolidWorks to accelerate mechanical design and iteration.

Leverage programming skills in languages like Python, MATLAB, or C++ for simulation, data analysis, and automated testing procedures.

Highlight exposure to lightweight materials, composites, or additive manufacturing techniques that support advanced manufacturing initiatives.

Show familiarity with FEA or multi-physics simulation software to evaluate mechanical behavior and guide design improvements.

Include basic understanding of aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, or thermal management principles as they apply to mechanical systems in defense contexts.

Practical notes

This role is based in Huntington Beach, California, and requires full-time on-site presence.

Employment eligibility verification and background checks are required.

This position may involve extended work hours or weekend work to align with critical project timelines.

Offers for this role may be contingent upon authorization to receive software or technology controlled under U.S. export laws, including the Export Administration Regulations and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations.