Mechanical Engineer

Mechanical Engineer Santa Barbara Infrared, Inc. (SBIR) – Santa Barbara, CA About Us Santa Barbara Infrared, Inc. (SBIR), a subsidiary of HEICO Corporation (NYSE: HEI, HEI.A), designs and manufactures advanced infrared (IR) and electro-optical (E-O) test instrumentation used worldwide. Our products support the testing of military and commercial sensor systems in laboratory, production, depot, and field environments.

SBIR has built its reputation as a fast-paced, innovative company that provides highly engineered, cost-effective solutions to the aerospace and defense community.

Role Summary

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to design, develop, and test precision mechanical systems for IR test equipment. In this role, you’ll create and refine designs, support product integration, and collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams to deliver reliable, high-performance solutions. Your work will directly impact the performance of next-generation optical test systems used by global aerospace and defense leaders.

This is a hands-on, on-site role in Santa Barbara, CA. $115,000/yr. to $150,000/yr., DOE On-Site Responsibilities Own the complete lifecycle of IR and E-O hardware including design, development, and testing of mechanical systems and precision optical mounts/mechanisms. Create hardware designs suitable for high mix, low volume production (CNC, sheet metal, AM, etc.)

while adhering to budgetary, schedule, and customer requirements. Partner with project managers, system engineers, vendors, and production staff to support manufacturing and rapidly implement performance, reliability, and quality improvements. Create and maintain detailed design documentation, including fabrication/assembly drawings, BOMs, and Interface Control Documents (ICDs).

Qualifications

Required Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent. 5+ years of related experience. Proficiency with CAD (Solid. Works Preferred) and solid knowledge of GD&T (ASME Y14.5) and tolerance stack-ups. Demonstrated experience owning designs through full lifecycle, applicable to high-complexity, low-volume manufacturing.

Ability to work independently and in collaborative, team-oriented environments. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, excellent written and verbal communication skills. Preferred Familiarity with Engineering Change Processes (ECOs), revision control, and product data management (PDM/PLM) systems. Experience with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and/or thermal modeling/simulation.

Background in optical systems, vacuum Dewar design, or electro-mechanical packaging. Hands-on experience with precision mechanisms, assemblies, or test fixtures. Additional Information Due to US Export Control Regulations compliance, eligible candidates MUST be a US citizen, permanent resident or a person who has been granted asylum; proper documentation required.

Pre-employment verifications: must pass background, reference and ITAR/EAR checks in addition to a pre-employment drug screen.

Benefits

We offer a comprehensive package including medical, dental, vision, 401(k), PTO, HSA, FSA, 9/80 alternate work week schedule, LTD, life insurance, and more. Equal Opportunity SBIR is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer (Male/Female/Veteran/Disabled).