Mechanical Engineer - Ground Support Equipment and Packaging

Who We Are

At Firestorm, we are building the future of expeditionary defense manufacturing and autonomous systems. Modern conflict has exposed a fundamental problem: the systems needed most by operators are often too expensive, too slow to produce, and too difficult to sustain at scale. Firestorm exists to change that.

We develop mission-adaptable aerial systems and deployable manufacturing infrastructure designed to put capability directly into the hands of the warfighter. From modular unmanned aircraft to xCell -- our deployable microfactory -- our goal is to make defense systems rapidly deployable, adaptable, and producible at the point of need.

We are looking for builders, operators, and problem-solvers who want to work on meaningful technology with real-world impact.

About the Role

As a Mechanical Engineer focused on Ground Support Equipment (GSE) and Packaging, you will own the design and delivery of the tooling, handling fixtures, and ruggedized transport solutions that enable Firestorm's sUAS platforms to be built, moved, maintained, and fielded reliably. You'll work closely with airframe, systems, manufacturing, and operations teams to translate real-world field and production needs into practical hardware—balancing durability, weight, cost, safety, and ease of use.

This is a hands-on, full-time role with ownership from concept through deployment. You will develop requirements, create CAD and drawings, perform analysis, prototype and iterate, qualify designs through test, and release complete documentation for internal builds and external vendors. You will also support fielding and test events to validate that GSE and packaging perform as intended in operational conditions, and you'll continuously improve designs based on feedback from production and end users.

This position is based in San Diego, CA. We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating; relocation assistance is available. The role requires domestic travel up to 2 total weeks in support of test events and operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment.

Our Culture & Benefits

Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work. We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth. We take pride in taking care of our employees through:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans
• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan
• Equity grants for new hires
• Unlimited PTO
• An extremely generous company holiday calendar, including a holiday hiatus in November and December
• Generous Parental Leave
• Lifestyle Spending Account and various insurance options (FSA, HSA, Hospital Indemnity, Critical Illness, Accident, Life/AD&D, and Disability)
• Free 24/7 mental health resources, including therapy, as well as free legal and financial support services.

Equal Opportunity

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law.

We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com.