Senior Mechanical Engineer - Industrial Machinery, Hydraulics, and Structures

Senior Mechanical Engineer - Shape the Future of Autonomous Resource Exploration!

Opportunity Summary:

Join an innovative, pre-seed startup backed by prominent VCs, dedicated to redefining global mineral exploration through revolutionary autonomous technologies. Our team believes that the scarcity of critical materials should never limit human advancement. We are developing cutting-edge automated drilling solutions to accelerate mineral discovery, creating safer, smarter, and more efficient exploration methods. We're seeking a passionate Senior Mechanical Engineer to design and build core mechanical systems essential to our next-generation drilling rigs for terrestrial and space applications. This role offers a unique chance to significantly influence a rapidly evolving industry and grow within a team of forward-thinking engineers.

About Us:

We're on a mission to fundamentally transform mineral exploration-an essential $2 trillion global industry that's seen little technological innovation. By integrating advanced automation, data-driven insights, and robust mechanical systems into exploration drilling, we aim to dramatically reduce the time, cost, and complexity associated with discovering valuable ore deposits. With our autonomous drill rigs, we provide real-time data streams, automated controls, and unmatched precision to revolutionize how materials are located and extracted.

Job Duties:

• Design, prototype, and validate mechanical systems including hydraulic components, structural assemblies, and fluid circulation solutions for autonomous drilling platforms.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with electrical, control, and software teams to ensure cohesive integration of mechanical designs.
• Conduct rigorous finite element analyses (FEA), stress tests, and simulations to ensure system durability and optimal performance under extreme conditions.
• Plan, perform, and document extensive subsystem testing and validation, refining designs through iterative improvements.
• Optimize mechanical components and assemblies for manufacturability, weight efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and reliable performance.
• Participate in regular field visits to identify operational challenges and implement continuous improvements to enhance real-world performance.
• Create detailed documentation covering design rationales, test outcomes, and recommendations for future system enhancements.

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of mechanical engineering design experience, ideally involving autonomous equipment, industrial machinery, or heavy equipment.
• Proficient in 3D CAD modeling software such as SolidWorks, NX, or equivalent.
• Experience using FEA tools for structural analysis (ANSYS, Abaqus, or similar).
• Comprehensive understanding of hydraulics, structural integrity, and mechanical drive systems.
• Familiarity with manufacturing techniques, material selection, and design tolerances.
• Ability to quickly iterate through prototypes and work collaboratively in a dynamic, rapid development environment.
• Previous experience with outdoor field testing or operations in rugged environments is a plus.

Preferred Experience:

• Prior exposure to autonomous machinery, robotic systems, or complex mechanical equipment.
• Experience in startup or early-stage product development environments.
• Proven ability to lead critical engineering projects from initial concept to final deployment.

Why Join Us:

• Substantial opportunity for personal and professional growth in a fast-paced startup.
• Comprehensive healthcare (medical, dental, vision).
• Meaningful equity participation in a venture poised for significant growth.
• Opportunity for global travel and real-world impact.

Compensation Details:

$150,000 - $180,000 + generous equity