Mechanical Engineer L1

About CycloKinetics

CycloKinetics, is advancing the next generation of high-performance propellants for aerospace and defense. Our highly innovative technology allows us to harness existing energy from biomass and convert it to superior performance fuels and propellants across aviation, aerospace, and defense applications. 

We are a team of engineers, scientists, and operators driven by performance, innovation, and national security impact focused on building scalable, domestic energy solutions that power the future of propulsion. CycloKinetics is based in Salt Lake City, Utah.  

Job Summary:

We are seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer to join our engineering team in supporting the design, development, testing, and implementation of mechanical systems that enable the construction, commissioning, and continuous improvement of the company’s first-of-its-kind biorefinery. Working alongside experienced engineers, fabricators, and installation partners, this role provides an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience while contributing to the development of innovative process technologies.

The Mechanical Engineer L1 will assist with mechanical design, equipment selection, piping and plant layout development, fabrication support, and field installation activities. This position offers exposure to the full project lifecycle—from concept and design through construction, startup, and operational support—while developing practical engineering skills in a fast-paced research and development environment.

Successful candidates will have a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Internship, co-op, research, or project experience involving mechanical design, manufacturing, process equipment, piping systems, CAD modeling, or fabrication is preferred but not required.

The successful candidate is a motivated, curious, and hands-on engineer who enjoys solving technical problems, learning from experienced professionals, and working collaboratively in an entrepreneurial environment. This role is ideal for someone who is excited by the opportunity  to help develop and commercialize groundbreaking manufacturing technologies while building a strong foundation in mechanical engineering.

Responsibilities:

• Evaluates and designs mechanical systems and products by applying principles of mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and materials.
• Develops drawings, specifications, and documents for fabrication or review.
• Collects data, analyzes and summarizes information and trends for the use of developing future equipment in our specific processes.  
• Complies with all internal, OSHA, and government policies & regulations.
• Performs job duties in a safety-regulated environment where chemicals are used.
• Coordinates with maintenance and repair services to diagnose equipment and problems.
• Develops and implements action plans and solutions to address equipment or safety deficiencies.
• Coordinates work with in-house and outside engineering contractors.
• Participates in meetings and planning sessions, providing work updates or summaries as requested. 
• Participates in area HAZOP reviews and incident investigations.
• Provides discipline input and equipment selection oversight to engineering projects.
• Interacts daily with project team members developing and executing project objectives.
• Participates in factory acceptance tests and site acceptance tests.
• Participates in commissioning and startup activities, including loop checking and calibration of instruments and analyzers.
• Confers with management and project stakeholders throughout a project’s life cycle.
• Performs additional duties as assigned by the Manager/Supervisor or designated leadership.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering.
• Preference will be given to candidates that have some engineering experience (internships, or technical work experience).
• Proficiency with 3D CAD platforms (Solidworks, Inventor, etc).
• Proficiency in computer simulation/analysis tools a plus (FEA & CFD).
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Office.

Physical Demands: 

Frequent lifting and moving of items up to fifty (50) pounds, bending, reaching above shoulder level, climbing stairs, pulling, prolonged standing or sitting may be required. Must have safe work habits and perform all duties in accordance with company safety policies. Personal protective equipment is provided by the company, and its use is mandatory.

General:

This position is based in Salt Lake City, Utah with work performed on-site. CycloKinetics is an At-Will, VEVRAA, Equal Employment Opportunity Employer, E-Verify, and Drug Free Workplace. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of a background verification and drug screens.

Benefits:

CycloKinetics offers a competitive compensation and benefits package including:

• 15 Days of PTO
• 12 Paid Holidays
• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Account (FSA)
• 401(k) Savings Plan (including Roth options)
• Basic Life Insurance
• Dependent Life Insurance
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance
• Short-Term Disability (STD)
• Long-Term Disability (LTD)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Paid Parental Leave
• ESOP
• Bonus Potential 

EEO Statement:

CycloKinetics is an Equal Opportunity Employer and embraces diversity in our employee population. We are excited to work with talented individuals from a wide range of backgrounds. All employment decisions at CycloKinetics are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status or special disabled veteran, marital status, parental status, pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

We’re looking for detail-oriented team members who pride themselves on solving problems while bringing positive energy and strong communication skills to the table. If this describes you, come join our team today and contribute to the success of our organization!

FLSA Classification: Exempt

No Outside Recruiters Please: 

This position is being filled directly by our internal hiring team.  We are not accepting inquiries or candidate submissions from third-party recruiters or staff agencies.