Our Company
Whisper Aero, a leader in air propulsion technology, focuses on delivering cleaner, quieter, and more efficient thrust solutions. Our team, with over a decade of experience in electric propulsion, includes experts from NASA, Lockheed Martin, Boeing, and other industry giants. We pride ourselves on a culture of ambition, creativity, and teamwork, constantly seeking innovative minds ready to challenge norms and drive progress in our field.
About the Role
Whisper Aero is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Lead Product Development Engineer to play a pivotal role in product design, development, and launch. As part of a lean and ambitious team, you will take ownership of mechanical design, from initial concept to production, ensuring the product meets performance, cost, and reliability targets. This role is ideal for an engineer with a strong background in product development, component integration, and manufacturing readiness. This is a rare opportunity to work on cutting-edge consumer hardware and help define the engineering processes for a fast-growing startup. You will be instrumental in rapid iteration, managing version control, and working closely with contract manufacturers to ensure a seamless transition from design to production.
What You'll Do
- Lead the mechanical design and development of a consumer hardware product from concept to launch
- Own the 3D CAD for the product, delivering 3D detailed part designs and assemblies using SolidWorks
- Take into consideration industrial design intent, product requirements, manufacturing requirements, cost, and schedule in your design
- Create prototypes for testing and iterate designs based on performance, testing, and user feedback
- Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturers to define materials, tolerances, and production processes
- Oversee DFM (Design for Manufacturability) and DFA (Design for Assembly) activities to ensure efficient production and incorporate this feedback into the design
- Lead Design Failure Modes Effects and Analysis (DFMEAs) to identify and ensure high risk items are addressed
- Manage the creation and review of technical drawings, full costed BOM, and product documentation
- Drive problem-solving efforts for any mechanical issues during testing and manufacturing
Basic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
- 5+ years of experience in mechanical engineering roles, with a focus on consumer hardware products
- Proven experience leading at least two consumer hardware products from concept to mass production
- Expertise in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Creo, or similar) with hands-on experience in creating, maintaining, and controlling design drawings
- Strong knowledge of materials, manufacturing processes (injection molding, die-casting, etc.), and mechanical testing
- Experience working with domestic and overseas suppliers and contract manufacturers to source components, implement DFM and DFA, and execute New Product Introduction (NPI)
- Hands-on prototyping skills (3D printing, machining, etc.)
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment and adapt to evolving priorities
- Strong understanding of version control and design standards for production readiness
- Experience overseeing off-the-shelf component integration in consumer products
- Exceptional problem-solving abilities and attention to detail
- U.S. Citizenship required due to government contracts; ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance
Bonus Qualifications
- Experience in developing outdoor power equipment tools
- Experience working on battery-powered devices or air-moving products
- Packaging design experience
- Familiarity with thermal management and acoustics in product design
- Knowledge of regulatory requirements for consumer hardware products (e.g., UL, CE)
- Strong project management skills and experience leading cross-functional teams
Benefits:
- Top-tier Benefits: 100% paid Medical, dental, and vision for employees, 75% paid for dependents
- PTO & Federal Holidays: Starting at four weeks of paid time off for vacation, sick, and personal days
- Competitive Salary: Value-based compensation, plus enjoy Tennessee’s no-income-tax life
- End of Year Bonuses: For eligible employees
- We always have beverages and snacks available to energize you throughout the day, with paid team meals based on office demands.
- 401(k)
- Relocation Assistance
- Professional Development Stipend
Whisper Aero is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Whisper Aero also participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each applicant's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.
