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Kela Technologies is a defense technology startup developing next-generation command & control software and field-deployed systems that integrate sensors and AI for real-time battlefield intelligence.
As a Senior Mechanical Engineer, you will be a hands-on builder responsible for turning ambitious designs into ruggedized hardware deployed in demanding operational environments. You will own the complete mechanical design, integration, and production lifecycle—from prototype through serial production at scale.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead mechanical design and architecture of ruggedized assemblies housing sensitive payloads in harsh conditions, including sealing, thermal management, and materials selection
- Engineer systems to withstand significant mechanical loads, shock, vibration, dust, moisture, temperature extremes, and platform-induced stresses
- Design and integrate supporting mechanical infrastructure across the platform, collaborating with electrical and systems teams
- Partner with algorithms and systems teams to design mechanical rigs and fixtures for data collection in lab and field-deployable configurations
- Drive failure analysis and reliability work: FMEA during design, root cause analysis on prototypes and returned units, and incorporate lessons learned into revisions
- Lead Design for Manufacturing (DFM/DFA) phase and select optimal production methods for serial production, balancing cost, lead time, and ruggedness
- Plan and lead production ramp: tooling, vendor qualification, first-article inspection, assembly setup, and quality control
- Build, assemble, and debug prototypes hands-on, then translate learnings into production design
- Ensure all designs meet MIL-STD requirements for environmental, mechanical, and electromagnetic performance; own the qualification path from design through testing
Requirements:
- 5+ years of hands-on mechanical engineering experience with strong production and assembly background
- BSc or MSc in Mechanical Engineering
- Proven experience designing ruggedized enclosures or mechanical assemblies that survive high-shock, high-vibration environments
- Working knowledge of MIL-STD design and qualification (810, 461, or equivalents); ability to design to them from day one
- Experience taking a product from prototype through production runs of hundreds to thousands of units, including manufacturing method selection, vendor qualification, and production ramp ownership
- Comfortable working closely with software and algorithms teams
Advantages:
- Portfolio of serious maker/builder projects (racing drones, custom motorcycles, CNC builds, robotics, etc.) demonstrating ability to take metal from idea to working hardware
- Real experience in heavy machinery or heavy-platform integration (tractors, bulldozers, AFVs, construction/agricultural equipment, or comparable rugged platforms)
- Defense company experience
- FMEA, root cause analysis, or reliability engineering experience for ruggedized hardware
- Familiarity with sensor integration, harnessing for armored/heavy platforms, or vehicle-mounted systems
