Mechanical Design Engineer

About the Role

TechOps Specialty Vehicles is seeking a skilled and driven Mechanical Engineer to lead the design, integration, and engineering support of mechanical systems across custom vehicle platforms. This is a hands-on role shaping the performance, reliability, and innovation of mission-critical mobile solutions used in defense, communications, and emergency response. As a key member of the engineering team, you will be responsible for developing and refining complex mechanical assemblies, structural components, and thermal systems. You will also support cross-functional collaboration with sales and operations to adapt TechOps products to evolving customer needs. Under the guidance of the Director of Engineering, you will help bring cutting-edge specialty vehicles from concept to delivery.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain detailed technical drawings, and Bills of Materials (BOMs) using SolidWorks for mechanical systems including chassis, custom bodies, enclosures, mounting structures, and sub-systems.
• Design, implement, and support electrical components, instruments, and systems tailored for mobile communication and specialty vehicle applications.
• Collaborate with customers and internal cross-functional teams to define requirements and deliver solutions for new and ongoing projects.
• Ensure all designs and installations meet applicable industry standards and customer specifications.
• Establish and uphold engineering best practices for construction, manufacturing, and installation processes.
• Partner with production teams to ensure quality assurance and successful system integration.
• Provide technical expertise and support to the Sales team during proposal development and customer engagements, including preparing cost estimates for materials, labor, and overall project execution to support budgeting and planning.
• Spearhead mechanical design efforts for custom vehicle builds, from concept through production, including coordination of design reviews with customers and internal teams.
• Ensure seamless integration of mechanical systems with electrical and control subsystems.

Requirements & Tech Stack

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Strong proficiency in SolidWorks (including simulation and PDM tools).
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and general computer literacy.
• Experience in mechanical design for vehicles is preferred (e.g., SAE).
• Familiarity with vehicle dynamics, thermal management, structural analysis, manufacturing processes, materials selection, and design for manufacturability.
• Proven ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment with strong technical acumen and communication skills.
• Working on-site in a hybrid shop/office environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field; alternatively, Associate’s degree with 1–3 years of relevant experience.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Based at TechOps Specialty Vehicles’ headquarters in Stevensville, MD.
• Regular time spent in the adjacent production shop.
• Shop environment is well-lit and ventilated.
• Noise levels may vary; appropriate hearing and eye protection required when necessary.
• Occasional exposure to seasonal temperature extremes, dust, dirt, and chemical fumes.
• Travel is expected approximately every other month to vendor locations, customer sites, or project-related events, potentially across the United States.
• Involves moderate physical activity: regular mobility, walking, standing on concrete floors, using tools and equipment.
• Work in various positions, including under vehicles, on ladders, and atop vehicles.
• Lifting up to 25 pounds is common, with occasional lifting of up to 50 pounds.
• Manual dexterity and coordination are essential for operating tools, computers, and shop equipment.