Senior Mechanical Engineer

About HEADBORNE.AI

Safe, mission-based AI solutions for first responders and defense.

HEADBORNE's long-term mission is to defend free democracies of the world with ethical, interoperable, mission-based safe AI solutions for first responders, defense forces, and decision makers. We build a secure, AI-driven Cloud/OS platform integrated in the next generations of AR smart glasses, helmets, drones, robots, and training systems. We seamlessly connect them across air, land, sea, space, and cyberspace, delivering complete situational awareness, control, and command.

About the Role

HEADBORNE seeks an Early Career or Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our rapidly growing team. You will work with our Principal Electrical Engineer designing and validating systems for AI-enabled AR headset-helmets serving first responders and defense forces. We seek individuals who are driven by their own high standards and thrive on tackling complex challenges.

This hands-on role spans concept to mass production: mechanical design, integration, lab prototyping, field testing, and vendor collaboration. We seek brilliant, motivated engineers to join TEAM HEADBORNE, delivering mission-based, safe AI solutions. If you're passionate about pushing boundaries and finding solutions, this is the opportunity for you.

Responsibilities

• Design & build AI-enabled AR headset-helmet prototypes, analyze failures, and transition successful projects into production.
• Define requirements, and work cross-functionally with other team members.
• Present design reviews, run analysis, visit vendors, design & execute hardware test plans.
• Use first-principles physics as a basis for every decision.
• Get exposure to AI-enabled AR headset-helmet integration and testing.
• Travel to test sites and vendors as needed.
• Support manufacturing through design, DfM, DfX, and quality.

Required Qualifications

• A Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Mechanical Engineering
• 0–20 years of work experience in designing, testing, and troubleshooting complex mechanical designs
• Demonstrated hands-on fabrication or laboratory skills
• CAD skills (any platform, SOLIDWORKS preferred) and ability to create high-quality engineering drawings that meet industry standards
• High competence with, and fluid use of, engineering first principles
• Proficiency in both German and English
• Right to work in Germany, without sponsorship
• Eligibility for German security clearances

Preferred Qualifications

• Familiarity with automotive or aeronautical engineering from past experience
• Proficient in designing or incorporating electrical components such as PCBAs, batteries, cameras, sensors, and antennas into mechanical designs
• Experienced in machining, working with sheet metal, injection molding, and 3D printing
• Action-oriented and quick to address problems when they arise
• Naturally inquisitive about the tools and technologies involved in your work
• Committed to the mission, takes full responsibility, and is a strong team player

Location

This in-person role is based in Jena, Germany. Candidates are expected to be located near Jena or open to relocation.

HEADBORNE.AI is an equal-opportunity employer, and we encourage candidates from all backgrounds to apply.

What We Offer

• Defend free democracies through mission-based, safe AI solutions
• Collaborate with a small, international team of world-leading experts on cutting-edge AI-driven AR systems
• Earn a competitive salary
• Receive highly competitive stock options