Dominion Dynamics is an Ottawa-based defence technology startup developing autonomous combat aircraft and an Autonomous Collaborative Platform to operate alongside manned fighters.
Mechanical Engineer - Structural & Enclosures Preferred Location: Onsite - Ottawa Reports to: Head of Hardware THE ROLE Our systems are built for continuous operation in harsh, remote, and mission-critical environments where reliability is non-negotiable. The difference between a lab prototype and a fielded capability is a rugged enclosure and structure that protects sensitive electronics, manages heat, and survives the mission. This role converts system requirements into sealed, EMI/EMC-aware, thermally stable, and manufacturable housings and chassis that can be produced at scale and serviced in the field. You’ll drive the design, analysis, and delivery of mechanical structures, enclosures, and protective housings for mission-critical electronics, from early CAD through prototyping, test, and ramp to production with suppliers. WHAT YOU’LL DO - Design and develop mechanical structures, enclosures, and protective housings for electronic components, sensors, and circuit boards. - Perform structural and thermal analysis to ensure reliability, vibration resistance, and environmental protection. - Develop detailed CAD models (in SolidWorks), engineering calculations, and design documentation compliant with engineering standards. - Collaborate with electrical and systems engineers to optimize mechanical-electronic integration, grounding, and shielding. - Select appropriate materials and finishes for thermal performance, EMI/EMC compatibility, and environmental conditions (IP/NEMA ratings). - Support prototyping, testing, and validation of housing designs for mechanical strength, sealing, and manufacturability. - Work closely with manufacturing and supply chain teams to ensure designs meet cost, weight, and production constraints. - Incorporate DFM (Design for Manufacturing) and DFA (Design for Assembly) principles into product design. - Contribute to continuous improvement of design standards, testing procedures, and product documentation. - Support failure analysis and design revisions based on test or field feedback. WHAT YOU’LL BRING - Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related field. - 4–7 years of experience in mechanical design, with a focus on enclosures, chassis, or structural components for electronic systems. - Proficiency in SolidWorks. - Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) and thermal simulation (ANSYS, SolidWorks Simulation, or similar). - Strong understanding of mechanical design principles, materials science, and manufacturing processes (machining, injection molding, sheet metal, die casting, etc.). - Knowledge of sealing methods (gaskets, O-rings) and environmental protection standards (IP65+, MIL-STDs). - Familiarity with thermal management (heat sinks, conduction paths, airflow) for electronic systems. - Understanding of EMI/EMC mitigation in enclosure design. - Experience with tolerance analysis and GD&T standards. - Ability to produce clear technical documentation and engineering drawings. No defence background required. We've hired people who didn't tick every box. If this is the work you want to do, please apply anyway. WHY JOIN US Building something meaningful starts with the right people. At Dominion Dynamics, you’ll: - Shape Canada’s future by building real defence capability for the CAF and our allies. - Make decisions that ship in a high-trust environment with short feedback loops and rapid iteration. - Move fast, field faster, and work directly with the operator — our systems are in the field with the CAF now. - Have an impact from day one with equity, responsibility, and direct access to leadership. If you’re curious, hands-on, and driven by the opportunity to make a difference, this is where you belong! COMPENSATION & BENEFITS - Competitive base salary and company equity - Comprehensive health benefits - Additional equity granted based on impact We use AI tools to support parts of the hiring process, including screening and reviewing responses. Final hiring decisions are always made by people and follow all applicable privacy and employment laws in Canada.