Mechanical Design Manager

Company Overview

Zeno Power’s (Zeno) mission is to provide clean, plug-and-play power anywhere in the universe. To do that, Zeno is developing a next-generation radioisotope power system (RPS) that generates carbon-free, resilient power for decades, utilizing material found in nuclear waste. Zeno’s technology is both light-weight and cost-effective compared to historic RPS, opening up broad market opportunities in space and terrestrially. To bring this breakthrough technology to market, Zeno is seeking out purpose-driven and innovative professionals who are comfortable working in a startup environment. Team members will have a direct impact in enabling commercial and national security missions from the depths of our oceans, to the surface of the moon, and in austere environments here on Earth.

Zeno is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to attracting, retaining, and developing a highly qualified, diverse, and dedicated work force. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.

Mechanical Design Manager

Zeno is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Design Manager to support the mission-oriented efforts of developing and bringing to market Radioisotope Power Systems (RPS) technologies.

In this role you will:

• Manage the technical team responsible for the mechanical design of all systems developed by Zeno Power, including spaceflight and maritime nuclear systems.
• Lead a team focused on the design and drafting of mechanical assemblies and components.
• Oversee the technical execution of mechanical design efforts across the full product lifecycle, from early concepts through detailed design, fabrication, and support integration, and testing as needed.
• Supervise, identify, and continuously improve the processes, tools, and technical capabilities of the Mechanical Design team.
• Ensure sound engineering principles and design methodologies are applied to all mechanical aspects of Zeno Power’s systems, as well as supporting fabrication and test infrastructure.
• Lead planning efforts and review/approve mechanical design work products critical to Zeno’s system development efforts.
• Direct, develop, implement, and enforce mechanical design processes and CAD standards to support efficient and high-quality product development.
• Verify adherence to regulatory, industry, and code requirements for mechanical design deliverables including drawings, models, and specifications.
• Monitor and ensure mechanical design activities across Zeno’s programs meet performance, quality, and technical requirements throughout the design lifecycle.
• Coordinate and validate mechanical design contributions from external suppliers such as contractors, subcontractors, and National Laboratories to ensure alignment with Zeno’s technical standards and program goals.
• Provide technical leadership and guidance in the development and completion of mechanical design packages, including 3D models, 2D drawings, bills of materials, and engineering documentation.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for mechanical design activities, responsible for coordinating with project management, systems engineering, and other stakeholders across Zeno Power.
• Develop and maintain integration with other teams like Systems engineering and mechanical analysis team.
• Oversee the employee life cycle including performance management and career development, training and allocating technical resources to program development.

Key Qualifications and Skills

• B.S. or higher in relevant discipline (e.g., mechanical engineering) from accredited university
• 6+ years of mechanical design development experience in relevant field, (e.g., aerospace, nuclear)
• 4+ years of demonstrated experience in leading direct reporting team members and/or indirect/matrixed program team members
• Demonstrated experience in mechanical design and use of industry standards (GD&T, ASME Y14.5)
• Proficient with 3D CAD programs (SolidWorks experience required) and its management
• Experience with manufacturing is a plus
• Experience with hot cell tooling or remote handling is a plus
• Experience performing design activities under an AS9100 or similar quality standard (NQA-1, etc.) is required
• Must be a self-starter and possess ability to coordinate and contribute to design effort with minimal direction
• Able to meet deadlines and perform under pressure in an uncertain environment
• Must have excellent written and oral communication skills

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