Hardware Construction Engineer

· Berlin, Germany · Full-time · Senior

Role Overview:

We are seeking a Hardware Construction Engineer to lead the design, simulation, and prototyping of mechanical and electromechanical systems that form the core of our stationary counter-drone defense platform. This role bridges the gap between theoretical engineering and hands-on hardware realization, covering everything from CAD modeling and FEM simulations to thermal analysis, test bench development, and physical validation.

You’ll work at the heart of the hardware development process—owning the end-to-end design and validation of complex assemblies operating under real-world stresses, dynamic motion, and strict performance constraints. This is a critical role for a technically versatile, hands-on engineer who thrives in a fast-moving, multidisciplinary team.

Key Responsibilities

  • Design mechanical and electromechanical systems using 3D CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, Siemens NX, CATIA), including precision enclosures, mounts, linkages, and structural elements.
  • Perform FEM simulations to analyze and optimize structural performance under real-world conditions, including:
    • Static stress analysis
    • Vibration and modal analysis
    • Load distribution and fatigue modeling
  • Conduct thermal simulations to ensure efficient heat dissipation and robust thermal behavior across embedded compute and power systems.
  • Drive rapid prototyping efforts, including:
    • 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, and hands-on assembly of prototypes and production candidates
    • Iterative validation of form, fit, function, and manufacturability
  • Design and build custom test benches for performance testing of motion systems, structural components, thermal systems, and full mechatronic assemblies.
  • Plan and execute physical tests, collecting data and analyzing results to validate simulation assumptions and refine designs.
  • Document mechanical designs and test results clearly and thoroughly to support future manufacturing, scaling, and engineering collaboration.
  • Work closely with electrical, embedded, and robotics teams to ensure mechanical integration meets the performance and environmental demands of field-deployed defense hardware.

Required Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field.
  • 3+ years of experience in mechanical hardware design, structural analysis, and physical prototyping.
  • Proficiency in 3D CAD tools such as SolidWorks, Inventor, Creo, or Siemens NX.
  • Hands-on experience with FEM simulation tools, such as ANSYS, Abaqus, or COMSOL, for structural and vibrational analysis.
  • Knowledge of thermal simulation techniques and experience optimizing designs for thermal management (e.g., cooling strategies, material selection).
  • Strong hands-on skills with machining, mechanical assembly, 3D printing, and prototype iteration.
  • Experience designing and building test setups or validation platforms for mechanical and electromechanical systems.
  • Ability to work independently and troubleshoot across hardware and mechanical domains.
  • Excellent attention to detail, safety, and documentation practices.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Experience working on robotic or aerospace systems, especially with dynamic mechanical loads and vibration-sensitive components.
  • Familiarity with IP-rated mechanical design for rugged outdoor or military environments.
  • Knowledge of DFA/DFM principles for transitioning designs from prototype to production.
  • Exposure to electromechanical integration with motors, encoders, sensors, and embedded electronics.
  • Experience designing gimbal-like or turret systems, or platforms with motion and tracking subsystems.
  • Comfort with multidisciplinary collaboration, including software, controls, and embedded systems teams.

Who You Are (Startup Mindset)

  • Hands-on and resourceful: You don’t just design parts—you build them, test them, break them, and make them better.
  • Fast and iterative: You’re comfortable prototyping quickly, learning from field failures, and improving with each iteration.
  • Detail-oriented and rigorous: You care about simulation accuracy, tolerances, test repeatability, and robust mechanical performance.
  • Cross-functional thinker: You see how mechanical design affects system behavior, from software integration to electrical constraints.
  • Mission-aligned: You’re excited to work on real-world defense systems that demand precision, reliability, and impact.

About Us

We’re a startup based in Germany developing autonomous counter-drone systems that combine robotics, real-time sensing, and edge AI to detect and neutralize aerial threats. Our hardware must perform flawlessly in dynamic, outdoor environments under adversarial conditions. As part of the founding engineering team, you’ll help define the mechanical backbone of our system—balancing strength, speed, precision, and manufacturability in every design.