Valinor→
Mechanical Engineer at Valinor in Washington, DC
Skills
Job Description
Valinor is a new type of defense and government tech company focused on solving the problems others don't. Our unique model of centralized go-to-market and decentralized engineering allows us to move with unparalleled efficiency to identify unmet needs, build right-sized solutions, and get products where they matter most - in the hands of users. Unlike others in the space, who focus on the flashy problems, Valinor exists to solve the quiet, unaddressed problems-the small but significant ones that lead to cracks in the country's strength, stability, and security.
Backed by General Catalyst, Founders Fund, and Friends & Family Capital, Valinor was founded in 2024 and has established strategic partnerships with Palantir, Anduril, and Helsing. We are building the dream team, and we want you on it.
About The Role
Valinor Reflex is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our small, hands-on team. You will help design and build a low-profile, integrated hardware system built to perform in mission-critical environments. This role is ideal for an engineer who not only excels in CAD, but deeply understands how designs translate into real-world manufacturing, assembly, and field performance.
You will work closely with electrical engineers and own critical parts of the mechanical system from concept through production. If you're comfortable moving fluidly between design work, vendor coordination, and hands-on assembly, and you're energized by a fast-paced, build-first environment, we'd love to meet you.
What You'll Do
Design mechanical components and assemblies in SolidWorks, with a focus on producing parts that are manufacturable and production-ready from day one
Collaborate closely with electrical engineers, including within Altium workflows, to co-design tightly integrated electromechanical systems
Own key decisions around material selection, fabrication processes, tolerancing, and adhesives
Design for thermal performance and heat dissipation within constrained form factors
Assemble and integrate sensitive electronic hardware with mechanical systems
Partner with vendors and contract manufacturers to drive prototyping and component production
Iterate quickly based on testing outcomes, failure analysis, and real-world performance feedback
What We're Looking For
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related field
3-5 years of experience in mechanical design, with a track record of taking products from CAD through manufacturing and into assembly
Strong proficiency in SolidWorks or comparable CAD tools
Hands-on experience with electromechanical systems, including collaboration with electrical engineering teams
Solid understanding of manufacturing processes including CNC machining, 3D printing and post-processing, and injection molding
Working knowledge of material selection, tolerancing, and design for manufacturability (DFM) principles
Experience assembling or handling sensitive electronic hardware
Familiarity with thermal management and heat dissipation techniques
Experience coordinating with vendors, suppliers, or contract manufacturers
Comfortable working in an early-stage environment where you'll help build the foundation, not just work within it
What Valinor Offers
Competitive salary, equity packages, and benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance - fully covered for employees, 401K, development stipends, among others.
Unlimited PTO and two-week company holiday at the end of every calendar year.
We are a pro-mental health and pro-family company - we actually encourage employees to spend time with themselves and their families. Valinor also provides fertility benefits to those just beginning that journey.
Fun work environment - we like to laugh and take care of each other, but we also deeply respect the mission in front of us.
This role requires the candidate be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance. Active clearance preferred.
Valinor is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. The Valinor team is made up of incredibly talented and unique individuals, who together are disrupting industry norms by creating new paths towards the future of defense and government technology. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process. If you are someone passionate about working on problems that have a real-world impact, we'd love to hear from you!