Senior Mechanical Engineer – Hypersonic Flight Development (Hybrid)

VALT Enterprizes, Inc. is revolutionizing aerospace with cutting-edge hypersonic research and development to pioneer America’s first-of-its-kind hypersonic launch system, combining rocket and air-breathing propulsion to empower our nation’s warfighters with the tools they need to safeguard our country. We envision a world where access to space is no longer a privilege for the few but an opportunity for all. Our team is driven by data, fueled by passion, and united by a shared commitment to innovation and resilience. Challenges are embraced head-on in a culture that values creativity, autonomy, determination, and collaboration. Join us in shaping the future of aerospace and making history – together.

• Primary location: Presque Isle, Maine
• Remote work: Fully supported for design, analysis, documentation, and cross-functional collaboration
• On-site expectations: Approximately once per quarter for key engineering activities such as integration, testing, and design reviews, as well as team collaboration
• Flexible frequency: On-site visits may vary depending on experience level, project load, and team dynamics

We are seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead complex mechanical and aerospace engineering efforts across design, analysis, testing, and manufacturability. In this role, you will support and mentor a high-performing engineering team while driving innovation in hypersonic propulsion and flight vehicle systems.

You will face challenging, novel engineering problems requiring deep technical judgment, creativity, and a strong understanding of design-to-manufacture workflows. Success in this role requires strong documentation and communication practices to support effective cross-functional collaboration.

• Lead and support the design, analysis, testing, and manufacturing of hypersonic flight vehicle systems and subsystems
• Apply robust design-to-manufacture workflows to ensure high-quality engineered products
• Review and approve 3D models and 2D drawings for production readiness
• Perform structural, thermal, and fluid flow analyses to validate system performance under extreme conditions
• Apply engineering principles related to structural integrity, thermal performance, material behavior, and manufacturability
• Evaluate emerging technologies and recommend improvements to designs, materials, and manufacturing processes
• Research and develop innovative solutions to design, testing, or manufacturing challenges
• Support continuous improvement initiatives to enhance manufacturability, efficiency, and scalability
• Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior engineers
• Collaborate with cross-functional internal teams and external partners
• Communicate technical concepts, design updates, and results clearly across teams
• Support day-to-day departmental operations and contribute to overall team effectiveness
• Propose process plans for new parts, conduct time studies, and prepare quotations
• Conduct feasibility studies and recommend equipment, tooling, and process improvements
• Support prototyping, testing, and validation efforts to ensure design performance

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field
• 5+ years of experience in mechanical or aerospace engineering, including design, analysis, testing, and manufacturing support
• Experience with rockets, aerospace systems, or high-speed air-breathing engine R&D
• Hands-on engineering experience across product lifecycle
• Expert-level proficiency in CAD software (SolidWorks or similar)
• Experience performing structural, thermal, and/or fluid flow analyses
• Strong leadership, communication, and collaboration skills
• Familiarity with design-to-manufacture workflows and production processes
• Proven ability to work effectively in fast-paced, multidisciplinary environments
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work independently and take initiative in a dynamic environment
• Eligibility to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance
• Ability to travel on-site quarterly (or as needed) for testing, integration, and design reviews

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field
• Advanced experience with design-to-manufacture workflows and production processes
• Demonstrated leadership or mentorship experience with engineering teams
• Strong ability to operate in a fast-paced, high-performance engineering environment

• Competitive salary
• 90% Employer-paid comprehensive health benefits
• 4% 401(K) Match
• Unlimited PTO
• Flexible working schedule
• Employee stock options
• Opportunities for professional development and advancement
• Exciting and challenging work environment
• Relocation assistance available

Join us in shaping the future of hypersonic flight development and be a part of a team that is revolutionizing what it means to have greater access to space. If you are ready to take on an invigorating challenge of rapid prototyping and development of high-speed systems, then we encourage you to apply today and become a member of our dynamic team!

VALT Enterprizes, Inc., is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, or disability.