Mechanical Engineer V at Opto-Knowledge Systems in Torrance, CA

About OKSI
Opto-Knowledge Systems, Inc. (OKSI) designs and builds electro-optical and infrared sensor systems, autonomous platforms, and modeling and simulation solutions that support national security and defense missions. Our engineers work across the full lifecycle, from concept through fielded systems, on technologies like autonomous vehicle command and control, object detection, and real-time mission operations.

Job Summary
The Mechanical Engineer V serves as both a technical lead and hands-on engineer, responsible for mechanical design and oversight across multiple programs. This role requires expertise in SolidWorks, UAS, PLM, manufacturing, BOMs, supply chain, and configuration management, and mentors junior staff across all phases of project work.

What You'll Do

• Define and drive technical direction for complex mechanical systems integrating drones, seekers, optical devices, GPS systems, and computing hardware; set engineering standards and scalable architectures
• Serve as a senior technical leader and mentor across the organization; review and approve high-impact design decisions
• Tackle technically challenging design and systems integration issues using expert-level mechanical engineering knowledge; lead disruptive engineering initiatives
• Partner with program management, systems engineering, manufacturing, and business development; translate complex concepts for executive leadership and clients
• Architect full product validation strategies and lead development of custom test protocols, ensuring compliance with ITAR, MIL-STD, ISO, and FAA standards as applicable
• Prepare technical reports, design documentation, and project plans
• Direct large-scale improvements to engineering workflows and toolsets (e.g., PLM integration, model-based design)
• Engage with strategic suppliers and manufacturing partners to maintain design intent, quality, and cost targets during production ramp-up

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, physics, or a related field
• 10+ years of relevant work experience
• Proficiency with UAS, avionics, SolidWorks, and manufacturing engineering
• Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles (thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, solid mechanics, heat transfer, materials science)
• Strong understanding of manufacturing techniques
• Experience with BOMs, supply chain management, and production planning
• Experience mentoring and leading teams of engineers in a matrixed environment
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulations (ISO, ASME, etc.)
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment

Nice to Have

• Master's degree
• Experience with FEA, optomechanical design, thermal management, lightweight structures, or CFD tools
• Experience flying or able to fly drones
• Basic machine shop experience (soldering, lathe, mill, etc.)

Why OKSI?

• See your work fielded fast. Get hands-on with hardware and watch it deployed to customers within months, not years.
• Build next-generation defense technology. Our engineering work protects warfighters, reduces collateral damage, and safeguards civilians.
• Speed and accuracy. We move quickly, and you'll see your work through from concept to deployment, not just one slice of the pipeline. No process bottlenecks; we move with speed and agility.
• Flexible schedule. Working at OKSI gives you the opportunity to see your work come to fruition while still maintaining real work-life balance through our hybrid schedule options.
• Professional growth. OKSI is expanding, which means faster-than-typical opportunities to advance your career.

Compensation and Benefits

• $169,000 - $229,000 annually. New hires are typically brought into the organization at a salary between the range minimum and the salary range midpoint depending on qualifications and the budget allocated for this role.
• Medical, dental, vision fully paid by the employer for the employee
• Three weeks vacation
• Automatic company contribution to 401K – 5% of earned wages (no matching required)
• Educational assistance

ITAR Requirements

• To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C.
• 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C.
• 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.

We are an equal employment opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by law. We provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in the application and hiring process.

This employer participates in E-Verify.