Company Overview
Allen Control Systems (ACS) is a cutting-edge defense startup founded by two former Navy electrical engineers with a proven track record in robotics and software. We are developing a small, autonomous gun turret that employs advanced computer vision and control systems to precisely target and neutralize small drones and loitering munitions. Our innovative approach requires overcoming significant technical challenges, making this an exciting and dynamic environment for experienced engineers.
With an engineering-first culture, ACS values technical excellence and innovation. Backed by our founders’ successful exits from two previous ventures acquired for a combined $180M in 2022, we are committed to ensuring that the groundbreaking technologies we develop have a real-world impact.
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled Mechanical Technician to support the hands-on build, test, and iteration of prototype hardware at ACS. Working directly alongside our mechanical and electrical engineers, you will play a central role in the R&D process, helping bring early-stage designs to life, identifying failure modes, and feeding real-world findings back into the development cycle.
What You’ll Do
- Build and integrate prototype mechanical assemblies from engineering drawings, CAD models, and work instructions, with an emphasis on speed-to-test and iterative refinement.
- Conduct functional and performance testing on prototype hardware, collect data, and clearly document results to support engineering analysis and design decisions.
- Troubleshoot mechanical failures and anomalies on prototype systems, identifying root causes and working with engineers to implement fixes quickly.
- Operate hand tools, power tools, and basic shop equipment to fabricate, modify, or rework parts and assemblies as the design evolves.
- Collaborate directly with mechanical and electrical engineers to provide hands-on feedback that improves design for assembly, reliability, and testability.
- Maintain accurate records of build procedures, test results, modifications, and known issues to support the broader R&D team.
- Uphold safety and quality standards in the lab and shop environment at all times.
What You’ll Need
- 2+ years of experience in mechanical assembly, testing, or hands-on R&D support; we welcome all skill levels and provide full on-the-job training for motivated candidates.
- Comfort working in a fast-paced prototype environment where designs change frequently and problem-solving on the fly is the norm.
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD models to guide hands-on build and assembly work.
- Strong attention to detail and diagnostic skills, with a genuine curiosity for understanding how things work and why they fail.
- Collaborative team player who communicates clearly with engineers and takes ownership of tasks from start to finish.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary
- ACS Equity Package
- Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- Paid Time Off
Allen Control Systems is an Equal Opportunity Employer, providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment. Allen Control Systems prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
#LI-AS1
Skills Required
- 2+ years of experience in mechanical assembly, testing, or hands-on R&D support
- Comfort working in a fast-paced prototype environment with frequent design changes
- Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings and CAD models
- Strong attention to detail and diagnostic/troubleshooting skills
- Collaborative team player with clear communication and task ownership
Allen Control Systems Compensation & Benefits Highlights
-
Healthcare Strength — Health, dental, and vision coverage are consistently listed as employer‑provided across current role descriptions, indicating a solid core healthcare offering. This aligns with the startup‑standard package the company advertises.
-
Leave & Time Off Breadth — Paid time off is explicitly advertised alongside core health benefits in multiple postings. While accrual details aren’t shown publicly, its consistent inclusion signals baseline time‑off coverage.
-
Equity Value & Accessibility — An “ACS Equity Package” is repeatedly called out in job descriptions, suggesting equity grants are a standard component of total compensation. Visibility of equity across roles points to broad access to ownership upside, with specifics to be confirmed.
Allen Control Systems Insights
What We Do
Allen Control Systems is a defense technology company for a new era of drone warfare and to completely change battlefield economics. ACS is developing counter-drone robotic gun systems targeted at neutralizing attacking drone swarms, drones that are pre-programmed with AI, and drones that are non-jammable. ACS was created to lower the cost per kill of a drone to a few dollars. We do this by combining cutting-edge hardware and software that allows us to point an inexpensive gun that already exists in the field more accurately than anyone ever has before. ACS is a remote organization, with our HQ in Austin, Texas, and an office in Alexandria, Va. If you're passionate about our mission, we’d love to hear from you.
Allen Control Systems Offices
OnSite Workspace
