About the role
Spectra Defense Technologies Alpharetta location is seeking a creative and technically skilled Mechanical Engineer to design ruggedized enclosures, thermal solutions, and mechanical assemblies for mission-critical computing and display systems. This role involves full lifecycle mechanical design, from concept through production, with a focus on reliability, manufacturability, and compliance with aerospace and defense standards. The ideal candidate brings strong 3D CAD skills, experience with rugged electronics, and a passion for solving complex mechanical challenges.
Scope of Responsibility
Core Objectives
· Design and develop mechanical components and systems that meet environmental, structural, and thermal requirements.
· Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of mechanical designs into complete systems.
Key Responsibilities
· Create 3D CAD models and 2D drawings using SolidWorks or equivalent tools.
· Design rugged enclosures, brackets, and thermal management systems for electronic assemblies.
· Perform tolerance stack-ups, material selection, and DFM/DFA analysis.
· Support environmental testing (shock, vibration, thermal) and design validation.
· Collaborate with Electrical, Systems, and Manufacturing Engineering to ensure design feasibility and integration.
· Generate and maintain engineering documentation including BOMs, ECOs, and interface control documents.
· Participate in design reviews, risk assessments, and continuous improvement initiatives.
· Support prototype builds and transition designs into production.
Essential Skills
· Proficiency in 3D CAD software (SolidWorks preferred) and mechanical drafting standards.
· Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, materials, and manufacturing processes.
· Familiarity with MIL-STD-810, DO-160, and ruggedization techniques.
· Ability to interpret engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation.
· Excellent problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.
Experience and Education
· Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
· 3–6 years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in aerospace, defense, or rugged electronics.
· Experience with thermal analysis, structural analysis, or FEA tools is a plus.
· U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a security clearance may be required.
Personal Traits and Characteristics:
· Detail-oriented: Delivers accurate, manufacturable designs with strong documentation.
· Collaborative: Works effectively across engineering and production teams.
· Creative problem-solver: Tackles complex design challenges with innovation and discipline.
· Adaptable: Thrives in a fast-paced, high-mix product development environment.
· Mission-driven: Committed to delivering reliable, high-performance systems for critical applications.
Physical Demands
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit, talk, see, and hear. The employee is frequently required to walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position.
Occasional travel (up to 10%) to customer sites or other Spectra locations.
Work Environment
The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.
Office environment with temperature control, may be exposed to chemicals related to the manufacturing process. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.
Spectra Defense Technologies provides Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.