Zipline
Mechanical Design Engineer - Towers
$130K–$186K
South San Francisco, California, USA +1 · Full-time · Posted Sep 3, 2026
- Location
- South San Francisco, California, USA
South San Francisco, California, United States - Experience
- At least 3 product programs; no years specified.
- Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering.
- Visa sponsorship
- Must be eligible to work in the US.
About the job
Own the design and production ramp of large welded-steel towers and integrated systems that support Zipline’s drone docks, charging, and data transmission.
What you'll do
- Design tower systems and subassemblies, including structural components, mechanisms, and electronics integration.
- Iterate and select designs using engineering analysis and prototype test results, then collaborate with cross-functional teams to bring them into production and field use.
- Maintain engineering release processes, including parts, BOMs, build SOPs, and timelines.
What they ask for
- Own complex subassemblies or full systems across at least 3 product programs, from concept through production.
- Strong mechanical fundamentals, including load estimation, structural hand calculations, FEA, and CAD; familiarity with mechanisms and electrical integration.
- Practical manufacturing knowledge and experience with contract manufacturers ramping high-volume production.
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering; must be eligible to work in the US and willing to relocate to the Bay Area, CA region.
Nice to have
- NX as primary CAD tool.
- Human-safety-critical design margins and structural joint calculations; hands-on welding for prototyping.
Pay
$130,000 - $186,000 USD base salary (starting cash range)
Tools
FEA, CAD, NX, BOMs
Model-written summary · the original posting is authoritative