Mechanical Engineer III

About Kraken Kinetics

Kraken Kinetics designs and manufactures advanced kinetic solutions that enable modern warfighting capabilities for the United States Armed Forces and its allies. We specialize in mission-tailored warheads and firing systems for unmanned and autonomous weapon platforms, delivering production-ready solutions at speed to address urgent national security challenges.

Our team brings decades of specialized Department of War experience across the full lifecycle of kinetic system development—from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and operational deployment. Built on a foundation of work that helped lead the DoW into the era of kinetic drones, Kraken Kinetics combines commercial agility with deep technical expertise to deliver DEFINITIVE LETHALITY™ when it matters most.

Position Summary

Kraken Kinetics is seeking a highly capable Mechanical Engineer III to serve as a senior individual contributor and technical leader within the mechanical engineering team. This role is responsible for the design, integration, and production support of mechanically complex defense systems, with a strong emphasis on manufacturable, production-ready designs. The Mechanical Engineer III will lead critical mechanical design efforts, mentor junior engineers, and help shape engineering standards and processes as the organization grows. This position is hands-on, execution-focused, and intended for an experienced engineer who thrives in fast-paced environments and takes ownership of challenging technical problems.

Roles & Responsibilities

Location: On-site at our Pinehurst-area location

• Lead the mechanical design and integration of warhead assemblies, ESAD electronics enclosures, and key mechanical interfaces.
• Own complex mechanical subsystems from concept through production, including trade studies, risk reduction, and design iteration.
• Design production-ready components and assemblies with a strong focus on injection-molded parts, DFM/DFA, and part consolidation.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineering and PCB layout teams to define mechanical constraints, keep-in / keep-out zones, and packaging requirements.
• Create, review, and maintain detailed 3D models, assemblies, and drawings using SolidWorks, following configuration management best practices.
• Mentor and provide technical guidance to junior mechanical engineers through design reviews, coaching, and hands-on collaboration.
• Establish and refine mechanical design standards, modeling practices, and documentation processes.
• Support manufacturing and production teams through tooling, fixture design, and resolution of build and assembly issues.
• Evaluate and engage with vendors and manufacturing partners to improve performance, quality, and manufacturability.
• Contribute to proposal, schedule, and technical planning efforts under compressed development timelines.
• Take ownership of ambiguous or high-impact engineering problems and drive them to resolution with minimal oversight.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 5 years of professional experience in mechanical design and product development.
• Advanced proficiency with SolidWorks for complex part and assembly design.
• Demonstrated experience designing injection-molded components for production.
• Strong understanding of materials, tolerancing, structural design, and manufacturability.
• Experience working in cross-functional engineering teams, particularly with electrical engineers.
• Proven ability to mentor junior engineers and provide effective technical leadership.
• Ability to work effectively in fast-paced environments with compressed schedules.
• Strong ownership mindset, initiative, and accountability for technical outcomes.
  
  

Security Clearance Statement: This position requires special access to U.S. government information. You must be a U.S. citizen for consideration

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE or similar PLM systems.
• Experience leading mechanical design efforts on complex, multi-disciplinary systems.
• Background in defense, aerospace, or other high-reliability engineering environments.
• Experience transitioning designs from prototype to production.
• Familiarity with tooling development, supplier engagement, and vendor qualification.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 tools for technical documentation and collaboration.
• Interest in growing into a formal technical leadership or people management role over time.
  
  

Benefits Included

• Generous PTO policy
• Comprehensive medical coverage (80% company-paid for employee dependents).
• Vision & dental (100% company-paid)
• Short and long-term disability coverage (100% company-paid)
• Generous 401(k) retirement plan
• Company-paid life insurance
• Great teammates and well stocked snacks
  
  

LIFE IN MOORE COUNTY, NC (PINEHURST AREA)

Kraken Kinetics is based in Moore County, North Carolina, home to Pinehurst, a nationally recognized destination offering an exceptional quality of life.

Employees benefit from a low cost of living, minimal congestion, and a strong sense of community, with easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh-Durham.

Whether you're looking to accelerate your career or put down long-term roots, the Pinehurst area offers a compelling alternative to traditional tech and defense hubs.

We are committed to supporting relocation for the right candidates.

Watch What It’s Like To Live Here

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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Kraken Kinetics is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applicants of all backgrounds.

Compensation Range: $118K - $140K