Principal Mechanical Engineer

SAIC is seeking a skilled Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our team in Huntsville, AL and provide technical expertise in designing, developing, and implementing complex mechanical systems for a reconfigurable air defense project. This role requires a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, a passion for solving challenging technical problems, and the ability to contribute in a cross functional team environment. 

The ideal candidate will bring 10–15 years of professional experience, advanced engineering knowledge, and a proven ability to design, analyze, and optimize mechanical systems. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a fast-paced, high-impact project.

Key Responsibilities

• Mechanical Design and Analysis:
  
  
  
  • Design and develop complex mechanical systems and components.
  
  
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Electrical, Software, and Systems Engineers) to ensure the mechanical design meets the performance, reliability, and environmental requirements.
  
  
  • Perform engineering calculations as applicable and other simulations to optimize designs.
  
  


• System Integration and Prototyping:
  
  
  
  • Assist with the integration of mechanical systems into larger hardware and software systems to ensure seamless functionality and compliance with program requirements.
  
  
  • Assist with prototyping, testing, and validation of mechanical designs to ensure performance meets required specifications.
  
  


• Compliance and Standards:
  
  
  
  • Ensure designs comply with industry and government standards (i.e. MIL-STD) and other relevant specifications.
  
  
  • Prepare technical data, presentations, and reports for formal design reviews.
  
  


• Collaboration and Project Support:
  
  
  
  • Interface with multidisciplinary teams, including electrical, software, and systems engineers, to achieve system-level objectives.
  
  
  • Collaborate with program managers, suppliers, and customers to ensure project alignment with objectives and deliverables.
  
  


• Documentation and Reporting:
  
  
  
  • Develop detailed design documentation, including models and drawings, and technical manuals.
  
  
  • Provide input on project reports and presentations to share progress, risks, and recommendations with stakeholders.
  
  


• Technical Leadership and Mentorship:
  
  
  
  • Provide technical direction and mentorship to junior engineers and project teams, ensuring high-quality work and fostering professional growth.
  
  
  • Engage in technical discussions with stakeholders and represent SAIC at design reviews and customer meetings.
  
  

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution and nine (9) years of experience in mechanical design, analysis, and testing, with a focus on mission-critical or complex systems. Six (6) years’ additional experience can be considered in lieu of degree (per contract vehicle).

Clearance Requirements

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance; U.S. Citizenship is required.

Required Qualifications

• 10–15 years of experience in mechanical design, analysis, and testing, with a focus on mission-critical or complex systems.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD tools such as SolidWorks or similar platforms.
• Expertise in material selection, structural design, and dynamics analysis.
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulatory codes (i.e. MIL-STD).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation, presentations, and collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications

• Active Secret clearance or higher.
• Hands-on experience with full lifecycle mechanical system development, from concept to deployment.
• Familiarity with thermal management systems, heat exchangers, or energy-efficient system designs.
• Experience with additive manufacturing and emerging fabrication technologies.