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Design Engineer
Posted: 04/29/2026
Employment Type:
Contract
Industry: Engineering
Job Number: 44512
Pay Rate: 71.92
Job Description
The Panther Group is seeking an experienced UAS Mechanical Design Engineer to support advanced Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) development programs in Grand Prairie, TX. This is an exciting opportunity for a highly skilled design engineer with deep experience in military/defense systems, small air vehicle design, rapid prototyping, and mechanical system development.
This role is ideal for candidates with a proven track record of designing, integrating, and delivering UAS components and systems from concept through prototype or production.
What You’ll Do
- Design, develop, integrate, and test Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) components and subsystems
- Support rapid prototyping, fielding programs, and R&D initiatives
- Develop:
- Design concepts
- Detailed drawings
- Preliminary layouts
- Mechanical assemblies
- Prototype-ready hardware
- Evaluate critical design factors such as:
- Manufacturability
- Material availability
- Strength-to-weight efficiency
- Cost
- Interchangeability
- Contract requirements
- Utilize PLM/ERP tools (such as Windchill) for:
- Configuration management
- Change control
- Traceability
- Create and manage:
- BOMs
- CAD models
- GD&T
- Part tolerancing
- Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to coordinate design development
- Review and validate drawings, calculations, specifications, and layouts for accuracy and compliance
- Identify design deficiencies and recommend improvements to optimize performance and manufacturability
- 6+ years of mechanical design experience in:
- Military
- Defense
- UAS / UAV systems
- 6+ years of experience in:
- Small air vehicle development
- Prototype-to-production design
- PLM/ERP tools (Windchill preferred)
- Strong proficiency with:
- CAD
- BOM management
- GD&T
- Part tolerancing
- Experience with:
- Complex mechanical/electrical integration
- Weight and performance trade studies
- Configuration control
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and collaboration skills
- UAS / UAV rapid development programs
- Aerospace or defense manufacturing
- Prototype fielding
- Windchill or similar PLM systems
- Lightweight structures or advanced air vehicle systems
Meet Your Recruiter
Amanda Krafcik
Amanda is a Client Success Manager and has 10+ years of experience in the staffing industry. She focuses on finding the best talent for our clients and is a passionate team player. Fun fact: Amanda loves movies and is always watching them or talking about them on podcasts.
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Explore exciting job opportunities in the vibrant area surrounding Grand Prairie, Texas! This bustling region, located between Dallas and Fort Worth in the heart of the Lone Star State, offers a blend of southern charm and modern opportunities. With attractions like the AT&T Stadium, home to the Dallas Cowboys, and the stunning Ripley's Believe It or Not! museum, there's never a dull moment in Grand Prairie. Discover a thriving arts scene at the Uptown Theater downtown, or immerse yourself in the local flavors with delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. Join us in this dynamic community of growth and opportunity, where your career aspirations can truly thrive. Browse our job listings today and take the next step towards an exciting career in Grand Prairie, Texas!