Mechanical Simulation Engineer

Summary

FIRST RF is seeking a highly motivated Mechanical Engineer with demonstrated expertise in FEA analysis methods to support the development of advanced RF and antenna systems for defense and aerospace applications. This role focuses on structural, shock, dynamic, and thermal simulation of complex electronic and RF assemblies operating in demanding environments across land, sea, air, and space platforms.

You will work closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams to predict and solve mechanical challenges before hardware is built, helping ensure mission-critical performance and reliability for our customers.

Key Responsibilities

Lead structural, thermal, and dynamic simulations for RF systems and electronic assemblies using a suite of Altair (now Siemens) simulation tools (Hypermesh, Optistruct, RADIOSS, Hyperlife), and SolidWorks Simulations

Perform finite element analysis (FEA) to evaluate:

Thermal performance and heat dissipation

Thermo-Structural integrity

Shock and vibration survivability

Fatigue/Durability

Environmental requirements under MIL-STD-810 and related conditions

Develop and validate simulation models through correlation with environment, thermal, and vibration test data

Collaborate with RF, mechanical, and electrical, and systems engineers to optimize designs for

Weight

Manufacturability

Reliability

Environmental performance

RF compatibility

Support the design and packaging of high-reliability electronic and RF hardware for aerospace and defense applications

Participate in technical and customer design reviews, presenting analysis results, and engineering recommendations

Create and maintain engineering documentation, analysis reports, and test correlation data

Support root-cause investigations and troubleshooting activities during integration and test

Ensure compliance with ITAR, customer requirements, and applicable industry and military standards

Required Education and Experience

Must have U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, or related field

5+ years of relevant mechanical engineering experience in aerospace, defense, electronics packaging, or related industries

Strong experience performing structural, thermal, and vibration simulation on complex assemblies

Proficiency with simulation tools such as

Altair (now Siemens) Software Suite (Preferred)

SolidWorks Simulation (Preferred)

MSC Nastran

NX Nastran

ABAQUS

Experience with electronic packaging for high-reliability environments

Strong understanding of

FEA concepts & methodologies

Thermal management techniques

Shock and vibration analysis

High-temperature material options and perfornance

Experience working with MIL-STD-810 and/or DO-160 environmental requirements

Proficiency with mechanical CAD tools, SolidWorks preferred

Extensive knowledge of ASME Y14.5 and GD&T

Experience with fabrication methods including machining, sheet metal, and composite structures

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced multidisciplinary development environment

Preferred Education and Experience

Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, or related field

Experience supporting DoD or aerospace programs

Experience designing for harsh or high-temperature environments

Familiarity with RF systems, phased arrays, or antenna systems

Experience with test correlation and model validation

Proficiency in MATLAB, Python, or other technical programming languages

Experience leading technical efforts or mentoring junior engineers

Other Duties

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

Supervisory Responsibility

This position has no direct supervisory responsibilities.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work

This is a full-time position at 40 hours per week. Typical office hours include Monday-Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm; however, these hours may vary based on workload and the manager’s discretion.

Travel

About 10% travel is expected for this position as required for testing, customer interaction, or program support.

Physical Demands

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to talk or hear. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision and ability to adjust focus. This would require the ability to lift files, open filing cabinets, and bend or stand on a stool as necessary. The employee will also regularly be seated at a desk and using a computer. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

About FIRST RF

FIRST RF is a fast-growing, multi-discipline, privately owned small business focused on engineering and manufacturing of advanced technologies – specifically in antennas and radio frequency (RF) systems. We are an energetic team empowered with world-class facilities and resources. We promote a culture which prioritizes innovation and responsiveness. By making bold investments in the development of groundbreaking technologies, FIRST RF has fielded award-winning products ranging from revolutionary passive antennas to highly complex, active antenna systems.

Benefits Summary

We offer all employees four weeks of PTO each year, flexible scheduling, hybrid work, tuition reimbursement, up to 6% 401(k) match, and healthcare, dental, and vision plans.