Lead Mechanical Engineer

We are seeking a highly experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer with a strong background in engine and mechanical systems design and multidisciplinary R&D engineering. This role requires leadership and deep technical expertise to design, develop, analyze, and test innovative mechanical systems for Department of Defense (DoD) applications. The successful candidate will lead cross-functional teams, convert conceptual ideas into production-ready solutions, and ensure compliance with applicable standards while driving innovation from first principles through to field testing and deployment.

Duties/Responsibilities:

• Lead multidisciplinary R&D teams comprised of electrical, chemical, materials science, mechanical, software, and systems engineers, as well as program management, to ensure successful project execution.
• Generate functional solutions from complex project requirements through innovative conceptual design and cost-effective system development.
• Provide experienced technical expertise and mentorship to engineers, scientists, and support personnel.
• Lead teams to design, prototype, and test novel technologies ranging from small combustion-driven engine systems to advanced materials and coatings.
• Conduct laboratory and field testing in DoD-specific environments.
• Author and review technical reports, white papers, proposals, and documentation supporting R&D projects.
• Convert internally developed technologies into deployable and profitable innovations.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant safety, quality, and industry standards, including applicable military standards (MIL-STD).
• Provide both engineering leadership and technical development to drive project completion.
• Work under the direction of Program Managers, and alongside Principal Investigators or Project Engineers
• Must wear appropriate PPE as needed and adhere to all safety standards

Skills/Qualifications:

• Must be a U.S. Citizen
• Demonstrated ability to employ first principles in design concept development across multiple engineering disciplines
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop state-of-the-art technologies
• Experience leading design teams to develop mechanical and/or electromechanical systems to meet design requirements including thermal, acoustic, and vibration requirements etc.
• Ability to convert internally developed technologies into profitable innovations
• Must possess theoretical and practical technical and analytical thinking skills with a detail-oriented approach.
• Demonstrated ability to take designs from concept to production and manage projects to schedule.
• Proven track record of technical writing (reports, proposals, publications). Samples may be required.
• Must be able to pass a background check and drug screen

Desired Skills/Qualifications:

• Practical knowledge of AS9100 or other quality management systems.
• Experience serving as Principal Investigator on government-sponsored projects.
• Extensive experience with the design, development, and testing of small combustion-driven engine systems.
• Experience with thin-film coatings, power production, or energy harvesting technologies.
• FE certification or PE license in Engineering.
• Familiarity with Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and the process of advancing innovative technologies from concept to deployment

Education/Experience Requirements:

• Education: Master's degree or higher in Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering
• Engineer with 12+ years' experience in state-of-the-art research, design and development engineering
• Minimum of 5 years of experience leading multidisciplinary R&D engineering teams
• Experience with various engineering sensing, testing and analysis technologies