Mechanical Engineer – Defense Systems & Advanced Prototyping

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Mechanical Engineer – Defense Systems & Advanced Prototyping Company: Guild Associates Inc Location: Dublin, OH, United States Job Type: FULL_TIME Category: Engineering Operations / GTM Strategy (as it pertains to product development lifecycle) Date Posted: 2025-12-16 Experience Level: Senior / Lead (10+ years) Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive the design, analysis, and prototyping of advanced mechanical systems for critical defense applications, focusing on innovation and robust engineering solutions.
• Lead complex simulation and modeling efforts, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA), dynamic modeling, and thermal/fluid dynamics simulations, to ensure system integrity and performance under stringent conditions.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with electrical and software engineering teams, as well as government clients, to translate high-level defense requirements into feasible and manufacturable mechanical systems.
• Contribute to the development of cutting-edge technologies, novel materials, and energy-efficient designs, pushing the boundaries of current defense capabilities.

📝 Enhancement Note: While this role is for a Mechanical Engineer, its focus on advanced prototyping, defense systems, and collaboration with government clients necessitates a strong understanding of product development lifecycles, project management principles, and the ability to articulate technical solutions to diverse stakeholders. This aligns with a GTM Strategy perspective on bringing complex, high-value products to market, even within a specialized defense sector. The emphasis on technical documentation and proposal support also touches on operational aspects of business development and client engagement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Lead the end-to-end mechanical system design, analysis, and advanced prototyping for state-of-the-art military and defense technologies, ensuring alignment with project objectives and client requirements.
• Execute rigorous simulation and modeling tasks, including but not limited to Finite Element Analysis (FEA), dynamic system modeling, and comprehensive thermal/fluid dynamics simulations, to validate design performance and predict behavior under operational stresses.
• Drive innovation by collaborating on the research and development of novel materials, advanced actuation systems, and highly energy-efficient mechanical designs tailored for defense applications.
• Translate abstract, high-level client requirements and mission needs into concrete, technically sound, and manufacturable mechanical system specifications and designs.
• Author and present detailed technical reports, white papers, and comprehensive design documentation to internal stakeholders, government agencies, and clients, ensuring clear communication of technical findings and progress.
• Actively support proposal development efforts for U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) funded projects, including SBIR/STTR, DARPA, ONR, and other agency initiatives, by providing technical input and design concepts.
• Ensure all mechanical designs adhere to stringent military standards (MIL-STD) and comply with specific environmental and operational requirements critical for military deployment.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineering staff, fostering a culture of technical excellence and contributing to the company's long-term technology strategy and R&D roadmap.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a senior-level role requiring not just technical execution but also leadership in design strategy, client engagement through reporting and proposals, and adherence to specific regulatory/military standards. This implies a need for strong project management skills and an understanding of the defense acquisition process.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field such as Aerospace Engineering or Mechatronics from an accredited institution.

Experience:

• A minimum of 10+ years of progressive experience in a research, development, or defense-oriented engineering role, with a proven track record of leading complex mechanical system design and prototyping projects.

Required Skills:

• Deep expertise in structural mechanics, heat transfer, fluid dynamics, or integrated mechanical system design principles.
• Demonstrated proficiency with industry-standard CAD/CAE software such as SolidWorks, ANSYS, COMSOL, MATLAB, or equivalent simulation and design tools.
• Proven experience working on defense-related projects, ideally involving direct interaction with DoD agencies (e.g., DARPA, ONR, ARL, AFRL, NAVSEA).
• Exceptional technical writing and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex technical concepts clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.
• A strong understanding of the full product development lifecycle, from conceptualization and design through prototyping, testing, and integration, with a focus on defense applications.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with advanced manufacturing techniques, particularly additive manufacturing (3D printing), composite materials, or micro-mechanical systems.
• Familiarity with military standards (MIL-STD) and specifications relevant to defense hardware and systems.
• Hands-on experience in laboratory settings, including prototyping, experimental setup, testing, and data acquisition.
• Knowledge of systems engineering methodologies and an understanding of the DoD acquisition lifecycle and processes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The requirement for a Ph.D. combined with 10+ years of experience positions this as a senior or principal engineering role. The emphasis on specific defense agencies and MIL-STD indicates a specialized domain knowledge requirement. Proficiency in a range of simulation and CAD tools is critical for the advanced prototyping aspect.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Showcase a minimum of 2-3 complex mechanical engineering projects that demonstrate your leadership in design, analysis, and advanced prototyping, with a strong preference for defense-related applications.
• For each project, clearly articulate the problem statement, your specific role and contributions, the methodologies employed (e.g., FEA, CFD, thermal analysis), the tools used, and the quantifiable outcomes or performance improvements achieved.
• Include evidence of successful translation of high-level requirements into detailed, manufacturable designs, highlighting any innovative solutions or material applications.
• Demonstrate your ability to manage the prototyping phase, including any challenges faced and overcome, and the final validation of the system's performance against specifications.

Process Documentation:

• Provide examples of technical reports, design documentation, or white papers you have authored, showcasing your ability to communicate complex technical information effectively and comprehensively.
• Include documentation that illustrates your experience with adhering to specific industry or military standards (e.g., MIL-STD), detailing how these standards influenced your design and analysis processes.
• Showcase any experience in developing or contributing to technical proposals for government contracts, demonstrating an understanding of proposal structure and technical response requirements.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior role involving advanced prototyping and defense systems, a strong portfolio is crucial. It should not only display technical competence but also the ability to manage projects, document processes rigorously, and understand client-specific requirements (like MIL-STD). The focus is on demonstrating impact and problem-solving capabilities through tangible project examples.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for a Ph.D.-level Mechanical Engineer with 10+ years of experience in the defense sector in the Dublin, OH area, the estimated annual salary range is $140,000 - $190,000. This range accounts for the specialized nature of defense systems, advanced prototyping, and the senior level of the position.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
• Opportunities to work on cutting-edge, next-generation defense technologies that have a significant impact.
• A highly collaborative environment with a multidisciplinary team of experts spanning mechanical, electrical, and software engineering domains.
• Support and encouragement for professional development, including opportunities for publications, patent applications, and conference presentations.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan (e.g., 401k) with potential company match.
• Paid time off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours, typically 40 hours per week. While the role is on-site, flexibility may be considered for specific project needs or as per company policy, provided project timelines and client demands are met.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary is estimated based on the listed experience level (10+ years), Ph.D. requirement, and the specialized defense industry context in Dublin, OH. Benefits are derived directly from the job description, emphasizing professional development and impactful work.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Defense & Aerospace Technology, Advanced Materials, Research & Development. Guild Associates Inc operates within a highly specialized sector focused on developing and prototyping advanced technologies primarily for military and government clients. This industry demands precision, innovation, and a commitment to rigorous quality and security standards. Company Size: While not explicitly stated, the provided company URL and typical operations in the defense R&D sector suggest a company that could range from a specialized R&D firm to a mid-sized technology provider. A smaller to mid-sized company often fosters a more agile and collaborative environment, with individuals having a broader impact. Founded: Guild Associates was founded in 1990, indicating a company with a long-standing history and established expertise in its field. This longevity suggests stability, deep technical knowledge, and a well-developed understanding of the defense contracting landscape.

Team Structure:

• The role implies working within a multidisciplinary engineering team, likely comprising mechanical, electrical, and software engineers, all focused on integrated defense system development.
• Reporting is expected to be to a senior engineering manager or R&D director, with direct collaboration with project managers and potentially client representatives from government agencies.
• Cross-functional collaboration is a core aspect, requiring seamless integration between different engineering disciplines to achieve complex system designs and functional prototypes.

Methodology:

• The company likely employs a rigorous, phase-gate approach to R&D and prototyping, especially given the defense sector's requirements for reliability and adherence to standards.
• Data analysis and simulation are paramount, driving design decisions and validation processes. Expect a strong emphasis on empirical testing and iterative design refinement.
• Workflow planning and optimization will be critical for managing complex projects with long development cycles and stringent client deliverables.
• Automation, where applicable in prototyping and testing, would be leveraged to enhance efficiency and accuracy.

Company Website: https://www.guildassociates.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: Guild Associates' founding date and industry suggest a company with a solid reputation in defense R&D. The team structure and methodology are inferred to be highly specialized and process-driven, common in this sector, emphasizing collaboration and rigorous technical execution.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This position is at a Principal or Lead Mechanical Engineer level. It demands not only deep technical expertise and hands-on experience but also the ability to lead projects, mentor junior engineers, and contribute to strategic R&D initiatives. The role is pivotal in translating complex defense requirements into tangible technological solutions. Reporting Structure: The engineer will likely report to a senior engineering management or R&D director. There will be significant collaboration with project managers, program leads, and direct interaction with government clients, requiring strong communication and stakeholder management skills. Operations Impact: The impact of this role is substantial, directly influencing the development of advanced defense systems and prototypes. Success in this position contributes to national security capabilities, technological innovation within the defense sector, and the company's ability to secure and execute high-value government contracts. The engineer's work will be critical for product performance, reliability, and competitive positioning in government bids.

Growth Opportunities:

• Technical Specialization: Deepen expertise in niche areas like advanced materials, autonomous systems, thermal management, or specific weapon system design, becoming a recognized subject matter expert.
• Project Leadership: Transition into roles managing larger R&D projects, leading cross-functional teams, and taking on greater responsibility for project scope, budget, and client relationships.
• Strategic R&D Contribution: Influence the company's long-term technology roadmap, identify new research opportunities, and contribute to strategic planning for future defense contracts and innovations.
• Mentorship & Management: Develop leadership skills through mentoring junior engineers, potentially progressing into a formal management track overseeing engineering teams or R&D departments.

📝 Enhancement Note: The career path for a Ph.D. with 10+ years in defense R&D typically involves increasing technical leadership, project management, and strategic influence. The focus is on leveraging deep technical skills to drive innovation and secure future business for the company.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This is an on-site role, likely within a professional office environment that includes access to advanced research labs, prototyping facilities, and testing areas essential for defense system development. The environment is expected to be professional, secure, and geared towards focused technical work. Office Location(s): Dublin, Ohio, with specific implications for local talent pools and commuting. Proximity to related defense contractors or government research facilities in the region might also be a factor.

Workspace Context:

• The workspace will likely support collaborative design sessions, individual deep-work for analysis and simulation, and direct access to prototyping and testing equipment.
• Expect access to high-performance computing resources for simulations, specialized software licenses, and potentially secure network environments required for defense projects.
• Opportunities for interaction with a dedicated team of specialized engineers, researchers, and project managers will be frequent and essential for project success.

Work Schedule:

• A standard 40-hour work week is expected, typical for full-time roles. However, the nature of defense projects and prototyping can sometimes require extended hours or flexible scheduling to meet critical deadlines, client milestones, or unexpected experimental needs.

📝 Enhancement Note: The on-site requirement in Dublin, OH, combined with the defense industry context, suggests a work environment that prioritizes security, focus, and direct access to specialized equipment and collaborative teams.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and portfolio to assess alignment with the core requirements, focusing on your Ph.D. research, relevant defense experience, and technical skills.
• Technical Interview(s): In-depth discussions with senior engineers and engineering managers covering your technical expertise, problem-solving approach, simulation methodologies, and experience with defense systems. Be prepared to discuss specific projects from your portfolio in detail.
• Portfolio Presentation: A dedicated session where you will present selected projects from your portfolio, demonstrating your design process, analysis techniques, prototyping experience, and the impact of your work. This is a critical stage to showcase your practical application of skills.
• Cross-Functional/Client Interaction: Potential interviews or discussions involving project managers, program leads, or even representatives from government clients to assess communication, collaboration, and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Final Interview: A discussion with senior leadership to evaluate overall fit, long-term potential, and strategic alignment with Guild Associates' objectives.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Curate Strategically: Select 2-3 of your most impactful projects, prioritizing those that best demonstrate your Ph.D. research, advanced prototyping skills, and direct relevance to defense systems or complex mechanical design challenges.
• Quantify Impact: For each project, clearly articulate the problem, your solution, the methodologies used, and the tangible results. Use metrics whenever possible (e.g., performance improvement percentages, cost savings, efficiency gains, stress reduction).
• Showcase Process: Detail your design process, including CAD modeling, simulation setup, analysis interpretation, prototyping steps, and testing procedures. Explain the rationale behind your technical decisions.
• Highlight Defense Relevance: If possible, emphasize projects with military applications, adherence to MIL-STD, or experience with government contracts. If not, focus on transferable skills like high-reliability design, extreme environment considerations, or complex system integration.
• Prepare for Questions: Anticipate questions about your design choices, alternative approaches you considered, challenges you faced, and how you overcame them.

Challenge Preparation:

• You may be given a hypothetical design problem or a case study related to defense systems. Prepare to outline your approach to solving it, including design considerations, analysis methods, and potential prototyping strategies.
• Practice articulating your thought process clearly and concisely, demonstrating your ability to think critically and systematically under pressure.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior defense engineering role will be rigorous, heavily emphasizing technical depth, portfolio demonstration, and understanding of the defense sector's unique requirements. Strong preparation in presenting project work and articulating technical strategy is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CAD/CAE Software: Proficiency is essential. Expect to use and potentially lead in the use of tools such as:
  • SolidWorks: For 3D modeling, assembly design, and potentially basic simulations.
  • ANSYS: For advanced Finite Element Analysis (FEA), computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and thermal simulations.
  • COMSOL Multiphysics: For complex multi-physics simulations, integrating various physical phenomena.
  • MATLAB/Simulink: For dynamic system modeling, control system design, algorithm development, and data analysis.
• Prototyping: Experience with various prototyping methods, including potentially advanced techniques like additive manufacturing (3D printing) for polymers, metals, and composites.
• Testing Equipment: Familiarity with data acquisition systems, sensors, environmental testing chambers, and mechanical testing rigs.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in tools like MATLAB, Python (with libraries like NumPy, SciPy, Pandas), or specialized simulation software for analyzing large datasets from simulations and experiments.
• Reporting Software: Experience in generating comprehensive technical reports, likely using Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) or similar tools.

CRM & Automation:

• While not a direct CRM role, understanding how engineering data feeds into project management and client reporting systems is beneficial. Experience with project management software (e.g., Jira, Asana) or PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems may be advantageous for workflow tracking and documentation.
• Automation in testing setups or data processing pipelines using scripting (e.g., Python) or specialized software will be a plus.

📝 Enhancement Note: The specific tools listed (SolidWorks, ANSYS, COMSOL, MATLAB) are critical for this role. Proficiency in these, especially for advanced simulations and modeling, is a non-negotiable requirement. Experience with additive manufacturing and military standards integration is also highly valued.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Technical Excellence & Innovation: A strong emphasis on rigorous engineering principles, pushing technological boundaries, and developing novel solutions for challenging defense problems.
• Integrity & Reliability: Commitment to producing high-quality, dependable systems that meet stringent military specifications and operational requirements.
• Collaboration & Communication: Fostering a team environment where open communication, knowledge sharing, and cross-functional teamwork are essential for success in complex projects.
• Problem-Solving & Adaptability: A culture that embraces complex challenges, encourages creative problem-solving, and remains agile in adapting to evolving project needs and technological advancements.
• Commitment to Mission: A deep understanding and dedication to supporting the company's mission of providing advanced defense technologies that contribute to national security.

Collaboration Style:

• Interdisciplinary Synergy: Expect close collaboration with electrical engineers, software developers, materials scientists, and project managers to ensure cohesive system design and development.
• Client-Centric Approach: Regular interaction with government clients, requiring clear communication, responsiveness, and a focus on meeting contractual obligations and performance expectations.
• Knowledge Sharing & Mentorship: A culture that encourages senior engineers to mentor junior staff and for all team members to share insights, best practices, and lessons learned to foster collective growth and efficiency.

📝 Enhancement Note: The values and collaboration style are inferred from the defense industry context, emphasizing rigor, integrity, and teamwork in a high-stakes environment. The role requires proactive engagement and clear communication across technical disciplines and with external stakeholders.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Complexity of Defense Systems: Navigating the intricate technical requirements and interdependencies of advanced defense technologies.
• Stringent Compliance: Adhering to rigorous military standards (MIL-STD) and ensuring designs meet extreme performance and reliability criteria under harsh conditions.
• Rapid Technological Evolution: Keeping pace with and integrating rapidly advancing technologies in areas like AI, autonomy, materials science, and advanced manufacturing within defense applications.
• Proposal Development Pressure: Contributing effectively to competitive government proposal processes, which often involve tight deadlines and complex technical requirements.
• Mentorship and Leadership Transition: Balancing deep technical work with the responsibilities of mentoring junior engineers and contributing to strategic technical direction.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Technical Training: Access to specialized training and certifications in cutting-edge simulation techniques, new materials, or emerging defense technologies.
• Industry Conferences & Publications: Opportunities to attend leading defense and engineering conferences, present research findings, and contribute to industry publications, enhancing professional visibility and knowledge.
• Cross-Functional Exposure: Gaining deeper insights into electrical engineering, software development, and systems engineering principles through close collaboration on integrated defense projects.
• Leadership Development: Opportunities to lead project sub-teams, manage specific technical work packages, and develop project management and client interaction skills.
• Mentorship Program: Benefit from mentorship by senior technical leaders within Guild Associates, guiding career progression and skill development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are derived from the specialized nature of defense engineering and advanced prototyping. Growth opportunities focus on deepening technical expertise, expanding leadership capabilities, and staying at the forefront of defense technology.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Ph.D. Research & Relevance: "Describe your Ph.D. research and how its findings or methodologies are directly applicable to advanced defense systems or prototyping challenges we face." (Prepare to explain the core problem, your approach, key results, and potential applications beyond academia.)
• Complex Design Challenge: "Walk us through a challenging mechanical design project you led. What was the problem, what were the constraints, how did you approach the analysis and prototyping, and what was the outcome?" (Focus on your problem-solving process, technical decision-making, and ability to deliver results.)
• Simulation & Analysis Approach: "When faced with designing a novel thermal management system for a high-power defense component, what would be your initial steps in analysis and simulation? What tools would you use and why?" (Demonstrate your systematic approach, tool selection rationale, and understanding of physical principles.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• Motivation for Defense Sector: "What specifically interests you about working in the defense industry and contributing to technologies like weapons systems and autonomous platforms?" (Show genuine interest and understanding of the sector's importance.)
• Team Collaboration Experience: "Describe a situation where you collaborated with electrical or software engineers on a complex integrated system. What were the challenges, and how did you ensure seamless integration?" (Highlight your cross-functional communication and teamwork skills.)
• Adherence to Standards: "How do you approach designing to meet stringent military specifications like MIL-STD? Can you provide an example?" (Demonstrate your understanding of compliance and quality assurance in a regulated environment.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each project, follow a clear structure: Problem/Objective -> Your Role/Approach -> Technical Details (Design, Analysis, Prototyping) -> Results/Impact -> Lessons Learned.
• Visualize Effectively: Use high-quality images, diagrams, CAD renderings, and potentially short videos of prototypes or simulations to illustrate your work. Avoid overwhelming slides with text.
• Focus on Impact & Rationale: Clearly articulate why you made certain design choices, the impact of your work, and how it solved the problem or met the requirements. Quantify achievements wherever possible.
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed technical questions about your methodologies, tools, and specific design decisions. Be ready to defend your choices with sound engineering principles.

Challenge Preparation:

• Deconstruct the Problem: If given a challenge, take a moment to fully understand the requirements, constraints, and desired outcomes.
• Outline Your Approach: Begin by stating your high-level strategy, then break it down into key phases or tasks (e.g., requirements analysis, conceptual design, simulation, prototyping plan).
• Justify Your Decisions: For each step, explain the rationale behind your choices, including the tools you'd use and why. Be prepared to discuss trade-offs.
• Consider Risks: Briefly mention potential challenges or risks and how you might mitigate them.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on showcasing deep technical understanding, a structured problem-solving approach, and the ability to articulate complex technical details and project outcomes clearly, especially within the context of defense systems and advanced prototyping.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Mechanical Engineer position:

• Submit your application, including your resume and a comprehensive portfolio showcasing relevant defense systems and advanced prototyping projects, through the Guild Associates application portal.
• Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight projects demonstrating your Ph.D. research, leadership in mechanical design, advanced simulation (FEA, CFD, thermal), and prototyping experience. Emphasize any defense-related projects or experience with MIL-STD.
• Resume Optimization: Ensure your resume clearly articulates your 10+ years of experience, Ph.D. qualification, and proficiency with key engineering software (SolidWorks, ANSYS, COMSOL, MATLAB). Quantify achievements and highlight contributions to defense projects.
• Interview Preparation: Practice articulating your technical expertise, design process, and problem-solving methodologies. Prepare to present your portfolio projects with a focus on impact, rationale, and technical depth.
• Company Research: Familiarize yourself with Guild Associates' history, its role in the defense sector, and its commitment to advanced technologies. Understand their values and how your expertise aligns with their mission.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.