Mechanical engineer (Thermal or Turbomachinery system) (Irvine)

Role OverviewMechanical Engineer – Aerospace Turbomachinery SystemsLocation: Onsite – Irvine CAIndustry: Aerospace & DefenseWe are seeking a Mechanical Engineer with strong turbomachinery design experience to support the development of advanced aerospace thermal management subsystems used across military and commercial platforms globally.This role focuses on the design and development of rotating machinery, including compressors, pumps, and fans integrated within aerospace thermal systems. The ideal candidate has hands-on experience designing turbomachinery components from concept through validation, with strong grounding in aerodynamics, CFD, structural integrity, and high-speed rotating equipment design.These programs are entering early development phases prior to Preliminary Design Review (PDR), requiring strong technical leadership in turbomachinery architecture, performance prediction, and mechanical robustness.Key ResponsibilitiesDesign and develop mechanical enclosures and subsystems incorporating turbomachinery componentsLead the mechanical design and development of turbomachinery components including compressors, pumps, and fansPerform aerodynamic design and optimization of rotating componentsConduct or support CFD analysis for flow performance and efficiency validationPerform structural analysis of rotating components, including stress, fatigue, and rotor dynamics considerationsSupport bearing selection, shaft design, housing integration, and sealing strategiesDefine performance requirements and conduct trade studies during early-phase system architectureSupport prototype builds, performance testing, and validation activitiesEnsure designs meet aerospace environmental requirements (shock, vibration, temperature, altitude)Collaborate with thermal, systems, controls, and packaging teams for subsystem integrationDevelop detailed CAD models and manufacturing drawings (SolidWorks preferred)Participate in root cause analysis, performance troubleshooting, and design improvementsEnsure compliance with aerospace and defense standards and documentation practicesRequired QualificationsBachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent.7+ years of experience in Aerospace & Defense mechanical subsystem developmentDirect turbomachinery design experience (compressors, pumps, fans, or similar rotating machinery)Experience with aerodynamic design principles and performance predictionWorking knowledge of CFD tools and analysis interpretationExperience with structural analysis of rotating components (stress, fatigue, rotor dynamics fundamentals)Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks preferred; strong experience in other platforms acceptable)Experience supporting early development phases and design reviewsFamiliarity with aerospace environmental standards (MIL-STD preferred)Preferred QualificationsExperience designing turbomachinery for thermal management or Environmental Control SystemsFamiliarity with high-speed electric motor integrationExperience with balancing, vibration mitigation, and rotating system qualificationExposure to FEA tools for structural validationExperience progressing programs through PDR/CDR