Mechanical Engineer Robotics

CDDS AG seeks a Mid-level Mechanical Engineer in Zürich to lead mechanical design, prototyping, and manufacturing readiness for an interceptor drone, focusing on lightweight, robust, and efficiently assembled components.

This position is responsible for the mechanical design, prototyping, and manufacturing readiness of an interceptor drone. The role centers on creating components that prioritize weight reduction, structural robustness, and streamlined assembly processes.

Responsibilities

• Create and refine mechanical parts and assemblies using SolidWorks, ensuring they meet weight, strength, and manufacturability targets.
• Guide 3D-printed and injection-molded components from initial concepts through prototyping stages to full production.
• Engineer designs for quick assembly by choosing appropriate fasteners, interfaces, and joining techniques to reduce build time and improve reliability.
• Partner with drone and aerodynamics specialists to integrate airframes and finalize structural designs.
• Assist in scaling production while managing bills of materials, drawing sets, and assembly guides.
• Perform mechanical tests to confirm designs withstand actual flight loads and operational conditions.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, or a related field, plus relevant industry experience.
• Advanced proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D modeling, assemblies, and technical drawings.
• Practical knowledge of design for manufacturing (DFM), including injection molding, 3D printing, and CNC machining.
• Understanding of fastener selection and mechanical joining methods that support rapid assembly.
• Direct experience in hands-on prototyping, with a track record of building designed components.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment, including working extended hours when project needs require it.

Nice to have

• Background in aerodynamics or lightweight structural design.
• Experience using finite element analysis (FEA) for structural validation.
• Prior work on drone or UAV mechanical systems.
• Familiarity with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T) and tolerance stack-up analysis.
• Experience transitioning prototypes to series production at volumes exceeding 2,000 units annually.

What the company offers

• Opportunity to directly influence mission-critical technology that impacts Europe's security landscape.
• Join a fast-moving startup where designs can transition from SolidWorks to flight within days.
• Collaborate with a highly technical, ambitious, and hands-on team.
• Engage in real-world testing, deployments, and customer demonstrations.
• Receive attractive compensation.

About the company

CDDS AG operates as a fast-moving startup with a team that is highly technical, ambitious, and hands-on.

• The company maintains a fast-moving startup environment.
• The team is characterized by high technical expertise, ambition, and a hands-on approach.