Overview As a Senior Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will lead the design and deployment of automation and machine systems for complex defense applications. You will shape system architectures and mentor cross-disciplinary teams to deliver safe, high-performance solutions. You'll collaborate with electrical, controls, software, and systems engineers to integrate cutting-edge technologies and ensure rigorous quality and safety. This role offers influence across technology roadmaps, proposals, and program execution, within a mission-driven organization.
Responsibilities- Lead end-to-end automation and machine design projects from requirements through deployment
- Collaborate with electrical, controls, software, and systems teams for integrated solutions
- Identify and implement emerging technologies to boost performance and adaptability
- Work in fast-paced prototyping environments while ensuring safety-critical design integrity
- Act as engineering authority, reviewing designs and guiding critical decisions
- Mentor junior engineers and promote knowledge sharing
- Drive continuous improvement and tool adoption in mechanical engineering and automation
- Support business development through technical contributions to proposals and cost estimation
- Engage with program managers, manufacturing teams, suppliers, and customers to align technical requirements
Key requirements- 15+ years of progressive engineering experience in automation, machine design, mechatronics, robotics, or related fields
- Proven leadership of multidisciplinary automation projects from concept to deployment
- Deep proficiency with CAD software (e.g., Creo) and engineering analysis tools
- Ability to perform kinematic and dynamic analysis on mechanisms
- Hands-on controls integration experience (PLC, HMI, industrial networking), sensors, motors, actuators, and related components
- Experience with electric, hydraulic, and pneumatic power systems
- Familiarity with ISO 9001, IEEE, ANSI, ASME standards
- Strong problem-solving, strategic thinking, and innovative solution delivery
- Excellent communication and cross-functional leadership abilities
- Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD secret level clearance
- Strong communication and ability to explain complex concepts to diverse audiences
- Mentorship and knowledge-sharing mindset
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving
- Creo CAD
- engineering analysis tools
- automation technology platforms
