Mechanical Engineer Robotics

Join CDDS, a deep‑tech startup focused on high‑performance counter‑drone solutions, to develop the next generation of kinetic interceptor drones that protect people and critical infrastructure across Europe. As a Mechanical Engineer you will own the mechanical design, prototype creation, and production readiness of these fast‑acting systems. Your daily work will revolve around creating lightweight, robust components in SolidWorks, iterating designs for optimal weight, strength and manufacturability. You will turn concepts into 3D‑printed and injection‑moulded parts, select fasteners and joining methods that speed up assembly, and work closely with aerodynamics and drone engineers to integrate structures into the airframe. Supporting the scale‑up phase, you will keep the bill of materials, drawing sets and assembly documentation up to date, and run mechanical tests to verify that designs survive real‑world loads and flight conditions. The role requires a university degree (BSc or MSc) in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design or a comparable discipline, combined with solid industry experience. You must be highly proficient in SolidWorks, comfortable with design‑for‑manufacturing techniques such as injection moulding, 3D printing and CNC machining, and knowledgeable about fastener selection and rapid mechanical joining. Hands‑on prototyping skills are essential, as is the ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, high‑ownership environment that may demand long hours when the mission calls for it. A background in aerodynamics or lightweight structures, experience with finite‑element analysis, prior work on drone or UAV mechanical systems, familiarity with GD&T and tolerance stack‑up, and a track record of moving designs from prototype to series production (2000+ units per year) are all advantageous. The position is based near Zurich Hardbrücke, starts as soon as possible, and offers the chance to see your designs fly within days, work with a highly technical and ambitious team, and make a direct impact on Europe's security landscape. What the role asks for: - BSc or MSc in Mechanical Engineering or related field - Proven SolidWorks expertise (3D models, assemblies, drawings) - Experience in design for manufacturing: injection molding, 3D printing, CNC - Knowledge of fastener selection and rapid mechanical joining - Hands‑on prototyping: build designs yourself - Ability to thrive in fast‑paced, high‑ownership startup - Nice-to-have: aerodynamic or lightweight structures expertise - Nice-to-have: FEA experience for structural validation - Nice-to-have: drone/UAV mechanical design background - Nice-to-have: GD&T and tolerance stack‑up familiarity - Nice-to-have: scaling from prototype to 2000+ units/year