The Role
Lead the design, development, and testing of aircraft systems and components. Conduct FEA analysis, provide guidance to junior engineers, and collaborate for optimized system integration.
Summary Generated by Built In
Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly aircraft the world's first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal aircraft are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been flying for over 10 years. Last year we announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, which is rapidly progressing toward general release and scalable production in 2026.
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of modern technology investments. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. If you are ready for adventure, we invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.
The Aeromechanical team at Pivotal is seeking a highly experienced and motivated Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our team. In this position you will serve as a lead over a variety of subsystems and mechanisms on our aircrafts. You will also be designing and carrying out tests of a variety of our subsystems.
Responsibilities
- Lead the design, development and testing of aircraft systems and components.
- Conduct FEA analysis on aircraft structures to ensure performance and reliability
- Provide technical expertise and guidance to junior engineers and technicians.
- Develop and maintain detailed design documentation
- Collaborate with other teams to ensure the mechanical systems are integrated and optimized and comply with the product requirements
- Conduct testing and validation of mechanical systems, including ground and flight testing
- Participate in the development of test plans and procedures
- Identify and resolve technical issues and risks
Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent field
- 5+ years of experience in mechanical design and development, preferably in the aerospace or aviation industry
- Strong knowledge of mechanical design principles and manufacturing processes
- Proven experience using CATIA is mandatory.
- Experience with FEA (ABAQUS/3DX preferred)
- Strong problem-solving and analytical skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Strong leadership skills and ability to manage and mentor junior engineers
Bonus Qualifications
- Experience with eVTOL or other electric aircraft
- Master's degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent field
- Passion for aviation and technology
- Strong sense of ownership and accountability
- Willingness to take on challenging projects and push boundaries
- Strong work ethic and ability to work in a fast-paced environment
Attributes Aligned with Core Values
- Demonstrates a proactive safety mindset by embedding safety into daily operations, identifying and mitigating risks through assessments and training, encouraging open dialogue on safety concerns, and continuously improving protocols to ensure a safe work environment.
- Puts customers at the center of every action by deeply understanding their challenges, delivering exceptional value, and striving to exceed expectations to support their success as our core purpose.
- Actively seeks and values diverse stakeholder perspectives, builds cross-functional relationships, and fosters trust through empathetic, fact-based communication—committing to shared decisions for the greater good.
- Drives results with clarity and purpose by focusing on what matters most, adapting to change, taking initiative, and owning outcomes while aligning actions with a clear understanding of success at every level.
- Navigates ambiguity with resilience and bold thinking, challenges the status quo, and combines innovative ideas with practical best practices to overcome obstacles and drive progress.
- Fosters a high-performance culture grounded in respect, professionalism, and support—balancing high expectations with a healthy, collaborative environment and being a trusted, dependable teammate.
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
Skills Required
- Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering or equivalent field
- 5+ years of experience in mechanical design and development, preferably in the aerospace or aviation industry
- Proven experience using CATIA
- Experience with FEA (ABAQUS/3DX preferred)
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The Company
What We Do
Pivotal, founded by Melinda French Gates, is a group of organizations dedicated to accelerating social progress for women and young people globally. Through a combination of philanthropy, strategic investments, and advocacy, the organization works to drive momentum in areas with the greatest potential for impact. By supporting leaders and innovative ideas, Pivotal aims to expand women's power and influence, ultimately fostering a more equitable and inclusive future for everyone.
