Lead Mechanical Engineer

Company Overview
Metrea is a defense company dedicated to translating commercial innovation into solutions for the hardest problems in national security. With deep mission expertise, Metrea focuses on delivering effects-as-a-service across Aerospace, Electromagnetic & Cyber, Digital & Synthetic domains via its capability groups. Metrea also consists of six support groups (Operations, People, Finance, Legal, Strategy and Solutions) that guide the development of specific capabilities that Metrea's files (product, projects, programs etc) leverage to achieve their targets.    

Capability Unit 

Metrea Advanced Signals (MAS) specializes in signal classification, direction finding, advanced geolocation techniques, and waveform development including waveforms for MANET and LPI/LPD applications. MAS also develops special purpose radios for government customers and licenses DF and geolocation solutions to multiple OEMs.

Position Summary 

The Lead Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for designing, developing, and testing electromechanical packaging for ruggedized military radios, ensuring that all mechanical solutions meet stringent performance, environmental, and durability standards. This role requires a blend of strong mechanical design skills, hands-on development experience, and the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional teams, including electrical, software, and systems engineers.

The engineer will play an active role in the design process, addressing complex mechanical challenges, and ensuring that prototypes transition smoothly into production. They will contribute to the design of enclosures, thermal management solutions, and structural components that protect sensitive electronics in harsh environments. Additionally, they will be tasked with selecting appropriate materials, conducting stress and thermal analyses, and ensuring compliance with military standards.

As a key team member, the Lead Mechanical Engineer will also have the opportunity to mentor junior engineers, promote best practices in mechanical design, and drive process improvements to optimize efficiency and product performance. They will be expected to work closely with suppliers and manufacturers to ensure the quality and manufacturability of components, while also contributing to the long-term sustainability of the systems they help create.

This role offers the chance to advance technical expertise in electromechanical systems and rugged design while contributing to cutting-edge military communication technology in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

Role and Responsibilities 

• Design, develop, test, and troubleshoot mechanical systems and assemblies for ruggedized military radios.
• Define, maintain, and manage Bills of Materials (BOMs) for systems, assemblies, and subassemblies.
• Work independently and collaboratively to develop mechanical solutions that meet performance and environmental requirements.
• Engage with vendors to communicate technical needs, manage timelines, and drive continuous improvements.
• Follow structured development processes and participate in design reviews to ensure high-quality, compliant designs.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to support seamless product integration and optimization.
• Serve as a technical mentor, promoting best practices in mechanical design and development.
• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance design efficiency, manufacturability, and product reliability. 

Skills and Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in hardware design and development.
• Proficiency in tools like AutoCAD, SolidWorks, CATIA, NX, Creo
• Familiarity with PLM software like PDXpert or Arena
• Experience with ruggedized electromechanical packaging design for military or aerospace applications.
• Knowledge of RF system design, including shielding, isolation, and EMI/EMC considerations.
• Understanding of manufacturing processes such as machining, casting, injection molding, and 3D printing
• Strong hands-on approach to mechanical design and hardware development in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
• Ability to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including hardware, software, and systems engineers, to develop cutting-edge products.
• Effective cross-functional communication skills, including engagement with customers, business development teams, project managers, manufacturing engineers, and field support personnel.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for documentation and reporting.

Our Culture 

Metrea’s single core value “rooted in humility” is suppor