Senior Mechanical Engineer

Neya Systems LLC., a subsidiary of Applied Research Associates (ARA) is a recognized leader in off-road autonomy and mission orchestration software, delivering cutting-edge robotic solutions for defense, commercial, and industrial applications. As a wholly owned subsidiary of ARA, we develop ruggedized, field-proven platforms designed to solve complex challenges in unstructured environments through innovative autonomous and robotic technologies.

We are seeking an experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, development, integration, and testing of advanced robotic and autonomous systems. The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical engineering fundamentals with demonstrated experience developing complex electro-mechanical systems, robotic tooling, automation equipment, and custom mechanical assemblies from concept through deployment.

This role is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, enjoys solving challenging technical problems, and can independently lead mechanical development efforts while collaborating across software, electrical, systems, and manufacturing disciplines.

• Lead the mechanical design and integration of complex robotic platforms, automation systems, sensor payloads, and vehicle subsystems.
• Develop mechanical architectures and conduct trade studies evaluating performance, cost, manufacturability, reliability, and schedule impacts.
• Independently plan and execute engineering efforts with minimal supervision while serving as a technical resource to project teams.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide guidance on engineering best practices, design reviews, and problem resolution.

• Design electro-mechanical assemblies, robotic tooling, end effectors, fixtures, test equipment, housings, brackets, and custom mechanisms using SolidWorks.
• Create detailed manufacturing drawings, BOMs, and release packages utilizing GD&T and Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles.
• Collaborate with software, electrical, and systems engineering teams to integrate mechanical solutions into complete robotic systems.
• Support supplier interactions, fabrication efforts, and prototype builds to rapidly mature designs.

• Perform structural, thermal, and dynamic analyses using engineering calculations and simulation tools to evaluate design performance.
• Develop and execute test plans, qualification procedures, and verification activities for mechanical and integrated robotic systems.
• Design and implement test fixtures and validation methods to improve system performance and reliability.
• Support environmental, functional, and field testing activities and document results through technical reports and presentations.

• Interface directly with customers, suppliers, and program stakeholders to define requirements and communicate technical solutions.
• Support proposal development, concept generation, feasibility studies, and technical reviews.
• Participate in occasional travel (approximately 10% or less) to support customer meetings, demonstrations, and field activities.

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electro-Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline required.
• Master's degree preferred.

• 7+ years of progressive mechanical engineering experience developing complex electro-mechanical systems, robotics, automation equipment, autonomous platforms, or related technologies.
• Demonstrated experience leading projects from concept development through manufacturing, integration, testing, and deployment.
• Experience working within multidisciplinary engineering teams and collaborating across technical functions.

• Advanced proficiency with SolidWorks and PDM/PLM environments.
• Strong understanding of GD&T, tolerance analysis, DFMA principles, manufacturing processes, and material selection.
• Experience designing robotic tooling, end effectors, automation equipment, fixtures, and electro-mechanical assemblies.
• Experience supporting hands-on prototyping, fabrication, assembly, and system integration.
• Ability to independently solve complex technical problems and make sound engineering decisions while balancing cost, performance, schedule, and risk.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to lead technical efforts and influence engineering direction.
• Experience mentoring engineers and providing technical guidance to project teams.

• U.S. Citizenship or permanent residency required due to defense contracting requirements.

• Experience designing robotic end effectors, grippers, EOATs, or custom automation systems.
• Experience with industrial robotics, robotic cell design, and automated material handling systems.
• Familiarity with machine safety standards, risk assessments, and industrial automation best practices.
• Hands-on experience with rapid prototyping, additive manufacturing, sheet metal design, and weldments.
• Experience with FEA, structural analysis, or thermal analysis tools.
• Background developing standardized products, reducing manufacturing costs, and improving engineering processes.
• Working knowledge of Python, C++, or other scripting languages used for engineering analysis and automation.