What are the responsibilities and job description for the Sr. Mechanical Engineer position at SEKAI Electronics, Inc.?
Sekai Electronics, Inc. which was founded in 1982 is a leading provider of highly rugged video cameras, modules and systems focused on serving the needs of the Aerospace and Defense Markets worldwide with facilities in Irvine, CA, the Silicon Valley and Hamburg, Germany. We are looking for an experienced Sr. Mechanical Engineer to join our product development team.
Overview
We are seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer with deep expertise in SolidWorks, GD&T, and aerospace/defense‑grade product development. This role focuses on designing and qualifying ruggedized camera systems, imaging payloads, and vision‑based products built for harsh environments, high reliability, and mission‑critical performance. This position reports to the VP of Engineering.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead mechanical design and development of ruggedized camera systems, optical enclosures, and vision‑based products for aerospace and defense applications.
- Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and engineering drawings in SolidWorks, ensuring manufacturability, environmental robustness, and compliance with program requirements.
- Apply advanced GD&T (ASME Y14.5) to define critical interfaces, optical alignment features, and precision‑machined components.
- Engineer solutions for thermal management, shock/vibration mitigation, sealing, EMI shielding, and environmental hardening of imaging systems.
- Drive products through the full lifecycle: concept development, prototyping, environmental testing (thermal, vibration, ingress protection), qualification, and production release.
- Collaborate with optical, electrical, firmware, and systems engineering teams to ensure seamless integration of sensors, lenses, PCBs, and mechanical structures.
- Support design reviews, FMEA, root‑cause analysis, and corrective actions for mechanical and system‑level issues.
- Ensure all engineering work adheres to ISO 9000, AS9100, and applicable defense/aerospace standards.
- Prepare technical documentation, test reports, and customer‑facing engineering deliverables.
- Lead continuous improvement of mechanical design practices
Required Qualifications
- US Citizenship is a Requirement
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
- 7 years of mechanical design experience, ideally in aerospace, defense, ruggedized electronics, or imaging systems
- Expert proficiency in SolidWorks, including complex assemblies, surfacing, and simulation tools
- Strong command of GD&T and engineering drawing standards
- Hands‑on experience designing ruggedized enclosures, optical housings, or camera/vision products
- Familiarity with environmental qualification standards (MIL‑STD‑810, DO‑160, or similar)
- Experience working within ISO 9001 and AS9100 Quality Management Systems
- Strong understanding of materials, machining, coatings, sealing methods, and aerospace‑grade manufacturing processes
- Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with electro‑optical systems, imaging sensors, or optical alignment techniques
- Knowledge of thermal analysis, structural analysis, or FEA tools
- Background in defense programs, ITAR‑controlled projects, or military standards
- Experience with UAV payloads, gimbals, or stabilized camera systems
- Strong attention to detail with a focus on both development and testing
- Camera and camera interface testing to include testing performance with regard to physical conditions such as shock/vibration, EMI and temperature
Benefits
Corporate sponsored health insurance, dental, vision , 401K plan with matching and life insurance