Mechanical Engineer II - Warhead Design and Production

About Kraken Kinetics

Kraken Kinetics designs and manufactures advanced kinetic solutions that enable modern warfighting capabilities for the United States Armed Forces and its allies. We specialize in mission-tailored warheads and firing systems for unmanned and autonomous weapon platforms, delivering production-ready solutions at speed to address urgent national security challenges.

Our team brings decades of specialized Department of War experience across the full lifecycle of kinetic system development—from concept and design through testing, manufacturing, and operational deployment. Built on a foundation of work that helped lead the DoW into the era of kinetic drones, Kraken Kinetics combines commercial agility with deep technical expertise to deliver DEFINITIVE LETHALITY™ when it matters most.

Position Summary

Kraken Kinetics is seeking a Mechanical Engineer II to support the design, integration, and production of mechanically complex defense systems. This role is ideal for an engineer a few years out of college who has transitioned beyond entry-level execution and is ready to take ownership of meaningful design problems. The Mechanical Engineer II will contribute across warhead design, electronic enclosures, mechanical interfaces, and production support, working closely with electrical, layout, and manufacturing teams. This position requires adaptability, strong fundamentals, and a bias toward action in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment.

Roles & Responsibilities

Location: On-site at our Pinehurst-area location

• Design and develop mechanical components and assemblies related to warhead systems, ESAD electronics enclosures, and interface hardware.
• Define and maintain mechanical interfaces between warhead assemblies and ESAD enclosures, ensuring proper fit, alignment, and structural integrity.
• Collaborate closely with electrical engineering and PCB layout teams to establish and enforce mechanical keep-in / keep-out zones and packaging constraints.
• Create and maintain detailed 3D models, assemblies, and drawings using SolidWorks, following internal configuration management practices.
• Support production and manufacturing teams through the design of jigs, fixtures, and tooling used in assembly and test operations.
• Participate in design reviews, trade studies, and iterative problem-solving under compressed development timelines.
• Evaluate and scout new vendors, materials, manufacturing processes, and fabrication techniques to improve performance, reliability, or manufacturability.
• Contribute to the definition and improvement of mechanical engineering processes, documentation, and best practices as the team scales.

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• Take ownership of assigned tasks or subprojects and drive them to completion with minimal oversight.
• Support cross-functional teams as needed to ensure overall program success in a small-company environment.
  
  

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related discipline.
• 2–5 years of relevant industry experience in mechanical design or product development.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks for 3D modeling, assemblies, and drawing creation.
• Strong understanding of mechanical fundamentals, including tolerancing, materials, structural considerations, and manufacturability.
• Experience working in cross-functional engineering teams, particularly alongside electrical engineers.
• Ability to work effectively under tight schedules and shifting priorities.
• Demonstrated ownership mindset, initiative, and willingness to take responsibility for outcomes.
• Strong communication and documentation skills.
  
  

Security Clearance Statement: This position requires special access to U.S. government information. You must be a U.S. citizen for consideration

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with SolidWorks 3DEXPERIENCE or other PLM / configuration management systems.
• Experience designing enclosures for electronics or mechanically integrating electrical systems.
• Familiarity with production support activities, including fixture and tooling design.
• Exposure to vendor engagement, supplier qualification, or manufacturing process development.
• Experience working in a small, fast-paced engineering organization or startup environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft 365 tools for documentation, collaboration, and project tracking.
• Background in defense, aerospace, or other highly regulated engineering environments.
  
  

Benefits Included

• Generous PTO policy
• Comprehensive medical coverage (80% company-paid for employee + dependents).
• Vision & dental (100% company-paid)

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• Short and long-term disability coverage (100% company-paid)
• Generous 401(k) retirement plan
• Company-paid life insurance
• Great teammates and well stocked snacks
  
  

LIFE IN MOORE COUNTY, NC (PINEHURST AREA)

Kraken Kinetics is based in Moore County, North Carolina, home to Pinehurst, a nationally recognized destination offering an exceptional quality of life.

Employees benefit from a low cost of living, minimal congestion, and a strong sense of community, with easy access to larger metropolitan areas, including Raleigh-Durham.

Whether you're looking to accelerate your career or put down long-term roots, the Pinehurst area offers a compelling alternative to traditional tech and defense hubs.

We are committed to supporting relocation for the right candidates.

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EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER

Kraken Kinetics is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and welcome applicants of all backgrounds.

Compensation Range: $98K - $112K