PDWVerified Job Source

Head of Mechanical Engineering

Quinte West, ON
On-site
Posted Jul 31, 2026
1 position

US$250,000–US$300,000 / year

Opens an external site

Employment type: Full-time
Experience level: Lead · 10+ years
Minimum education: Bachelor’s degree
Posting language: English
Working hours: 40 hours per week

Job summary

You will build and lead a world-class mechanical engineering team in Denver to design innovative sUAS products from layout through production. This role involves establishing technical direction, managing cross-functional partnerships, and scaling organizational capabilities to support company growth.

Job details

What You’ll Do * Drive execution of complex mechanical systems from layout through design, production and field deployment. * Guide design decisions for solutions optimized for high volume manufacturing and sustainment, with a focus on durability and usability in the field. * Partner with Electrical, Software, Systems, Product, Manufacturing, and Supply Chain teams to deliver integrated products. * Establish technical direction, engineering standards, and development processes across mechanical engineering programs. * Lead technical reviews, design reviews, and engineering risk assessments across multiple programs. * Build organizational capability through hiring, mentoring, performance management, and career development. * Develop resource plans, staffing strategies, and organizational structures to support company growth. * Help build and scale PDW's Denver engineering hub into a world-class engineering organization. Requirements * Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field. * 10+ years of experience developing complex mechanical systems for high-rate production. * 4+ years of engineering leadership experience managing technical teams and senior engineers. * Experience designing for high-volume manufacturing including injection molding, casting and stamping. * Experience in driving electromechanical designs including motors, sensors and complex cable and harness assemblies * Experience qualifying components and assemblies using statistical process control (SPC) * A pragmatic approach to tolerancing and specifications optimizing use of GD&T * Experience leading a cross functional team of engineers and industrial design in formation of multiple products. * Exposure to electronics and software design fields. * Demonstrated ability to build collaborative relationships with both internal and external customers. * Ability to work well under pressure with dynamic and tight deadlines. * Experience participating in cross-functional engineering efforts in fast-paced product development environments. * Experience establishing engineering processes, technical standards, and development methodologies. * Proven ability to recruit, mentor, and develop high-performing engineering teams. * Strong communication skills with the ability to influence technical and business stakeholders. Preferred * Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related technical field. * Experience scaling engineering teams through periods of rapid organizational growth. * Experience developing highly integrated mechanical systems incorporating compute, sensing, communications, and power subsystems. * Experience with AS9100, ISO9001, or similar quality management systems. * Experience supporting new product introduction, production ramp and high-volume manufacturing. * Hands-on experience with UAVs, robotics, aircraft systems, or autonomous platforms. * Experience supporting products deployed in demanding operational or field environments. Physical Requirements The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job. Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach, climb, and move about regularly throughout the day and lift / carry up to 25 pounds. Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office or manufacturing equipment as well as various electronic power supplies and test equipment. Must be physically capable of the assigned duties. Work Environment This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment. This role requires use of standard office and manufacturing equipment and may require occasional travel to customer locations or facilities. This position may have exposure to outdoor weather conditions, noise, and non-climate-controlled environments. May require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) depending on the environment. This is a fast-paced work environment and requires cross departmental collaboration with independent and team-based responsibilities. This position may require working outside of core business hours as needed to support business and operational requirements. ITAR Requirement In compliance with International Traffic Arms Regulations (ITAR), candidates must be U.S. Citizens, U.S. Permanent Residents (Green Card holders) or individuals granted asylee/refugee status as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3). Benefits PDW values our team, and we offer a compensation package reflective of your experience and capabilities. Benefits include: * Comprehensive BCBS medical, dental, and vision coverage; 80% sponsored by the company. * Safe Harbor 401(K) with company match. * Paid Parental Leave. * On-site gym at Huntsville, AL & Denver, CO locations. * Employer provided life insurance. * Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP). * A work environment that encourages teamwork and innovation. * Competitive salary, generous paid time off (PTO), and flexible leave options. EEO Statement PDW is an equal opportunity employer that upholds all federal and state non-discrimination laws. We ensure a fair and unbiased evaluation for employment for all qualified candidates regardless of race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, marital status, medical condition, disability, genetic information, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. This position will have an annual salary and benefits. The salary range provided is a guideline rather than a fixed limit. Individual pay is determined by factors including geography, job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. + Equity: Currently P5+ only + all ENG & Prod

What you’ll do

Requirements

Candidates must hold a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering and possess over 10 years of experience in complex mechanical systems for high-rate production. At least 4 years of engineering leadership experience is required, along with expertise in high-volume manufacturing processes and electromechanical design.

Benefits

• Medical coverage • Dental coverage • Vision coverage • 401(k) with company match • Paid parental leave • On-site gym • Life insurance • Employee assistant program • Paid time off • Flexible leave options