Mechanical Engineer - Robotics

Some jobs aren’t just tough — they’re brutal. Too toxic. Too remote. Too dangerous for humans to handle. That’s where we come in. 

At HDT, we build robotic arms and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) with military-grade strength and precision engineering, built for the extremes and adaptable to any challenge. Behind the toughest hardware is a team energized by complex problems. Bring us a challenge, and we’ll engineer the solution.

The successful candidate will have experience with machine design, sensors, transmissions, electric motors, bearings, kinematic linkages, material selection, structural analysis, as well as hands-on debugging. The ME- Robotics will have the ability to translate objectives to results and deliverables, while working in a highly-collaborative, multi-disciplinary team environment.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Strong robotics fundamentals (kinematics, dynamics, statics, sensing, etc.)
• Knowledge of 3D mechanical CAD design (Solidworks preferred)
• Drafting of production drawings for machined parts, fabrications and weldments, COTS parts, and assemblies
• Static and dynamic structural analysis using a variety of tools including both hand calculations and finite element analysis (FEA)
• Understands materials needed to optimize strength, weight, cost, and performance
• Understands machining and manufacturing processes to optimize cost without sacrificing performance
• Ability to conceptualize and implement the design of complex mechanisms
• Performs complex design and research tasks; develops mechanical products and systems such as robots, actuators, instruments, sensors, and overall mechatronic systems
• Designs a complete project, system, component, or process and preparing complete project documents
• Designs and conducts experiments, analyzes and interprets data, formulates and solves problems
• Ability and desire to learn new concepts and skills quickly

• Adheres to all quality and safety standards.
• Supports other projects and performs duties as assigned.
• Supports, communicates, reinforces and defends the mission, values and culture of the organization.

EXPERIENCE / KNOWLEDGE / SKILLS / ABILITIES :

• Experience with robotics/mechatronics
• Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
• Experience with finite element analysis (FEA). SolidWorks COSMOS or equivalent is sufficient.
• Experience with sizing actuators i.e. brushless electric motors, including the design of custom motors, and transmissions
• Experience with strain gages and load cells described
• Experience with other sensors such as hall-effect, angular position, and temperature sensors
• Possesses strong computer skills with demonstrated proficiency in standard business software packages (e.g., Microsoft Office). Must possess excellent skills with Microsoft Excel and Word
• Quality orientation and high attention to detail
• Must be able to read, speak and understand English
• Ability to work independently with limited supervision and in a team environment

EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE:

• BS degree in Mechanical Engineering required, MS preferred
• 3+ years work experience (Government contractor experience preferred)

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job:

• Work is accomplished in a typical office environment with adequate environmental (heating/cooling) control. The noise level in the work environment is moderate due to noises associated with computer equipment and environmental control systems. 
• This role routinely uses standard office equipment such as computers, phones, photocopiers and filing cabinets
• Access to operations and manufacturing areas may involve exposure to loud noises, dust, fumes, oils, and fluctuations in temperature

* This specific position requires U.S. Citizenship. The applicant must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance. An active Secret clearance is preferred but not required.