Product Engineer I

About Barber-Nichols
Barber-Nichols (BN) is a premier provider of custom turbomachinery solutions serving the Defense, Aerospace, Cryogenics, and Energy industries. Our team consists of industry leaders who collaborate closely with equally accomplished customers to deliver technologies that advance their markets and establish enduring partnerships. At BN, we foster a results-driven environment that values professional growth, rewards achievement, and supports innovation. From designing the blower for NASA’s Dragonfly mission to Saturn’s moon Titan to engineering critical components for the U.S. Navy’s MK-48 program, BN’s portfolio spans some of the most exciting and impactful projects in the world. For those seeking to contribute to impactful projects alongside a highly skilled team, BN offers an exceptional place to build your career.  

Position Summary: 

The Product Engineer I is responsible for the support and improvement of legacy and new electro-mechanical machinery products. This role covers all production phases, including manufacturing, assembly, testing, RMA, and field support for both Barber-Nichols and build-to-print product. The Product Engineer I will perform engineering tasks with oversight and assistance from more experienced engineers.

This specific role will focus primarily on providing comprehensive technical support for the Mk48 Heavyweight Torpedo Alternator and Regulator Production Program. 

Key Results Areas:

1. Resolve technical challenges related to manufacturing, assembly, testing, and field support for defense, space, cryogenic, and advanced energy products:
   • Collaborate with program managers, machine operators, manufacturing engineers, quality engineers, and technicians to troubleshoot and resolve technical deviations.
   • Work with cross-functional teams to incorporate process improvements and corrective actions.
   • Conduct engineering analysis to evaluate the usability of non-conforming parts and assemblies, ensuring that product quality, functionality, and contractual  requirements are maintained.
   • Support and/or conduct root cause and corrective action investigations including generating FRACAS reports (Failure reporting, analysis, and corrective action system).
   • Contribute to review/documentation of changes proposed by Customers, Manufacturing, Purchasing, and Suppliers.
   • Provide hands-on technical support to technicians.
2. Communicate effectively with customers and suppliers to provide technical guidance and address product deviations requiring customer approval. Responsible for preparing the technical portion of formal variance reports with senior engineer oversight.

3. Manage engineering documentation for moderately complex products:

• Maintain drawing packages to ensure documentation is up to date with current production practices and engineering changes.
• Participate in drawing  change processes, including generating redlines, supporting Engineering Change Notices (ECNs), and ensuring traceability of design updates.
• Coordinate with manufacturing, quality, and senior engineering staff to resolve documentation-related issues efficiently.

1. Conduct engineering assignments including the analysis and re-design of existing products and components to reduce costs and/or improve quality:
   • Perform calculations, prepare technical data, and assist in customer-facing reviews.
   • Compile relevant data from technical reports, standards, and manufacturer catalogs for senior engineer review.
   • Support other technical activities such as component testing, data analysis, design tool verification, and process documentation.
2. Develop repair and overhaul plans for products undergoing refurbishment or return material authorization (RMA) processes.
3. Provide program management for RMA projects, ensuring on-time delivery, customer communication, and project completion.
4. Support other engineering services on production projects as needed, ensuring effective communication and teamwork across all engineering teams.

Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, an individual must possess the knowledge, training, experience, and abilities required.

Education and Training

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or equivalent combination of education and experience.

Experience:

• 1 to 2 years of relevant work experience or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and working with high-compliance products is desirable.
• Exposure to rotating or electrical machinery is desirable.
• Exposure to manufacturing environments, including machine shop processes and practices, is desirable.

Other:

• Ability and willingness to gain a Secret security clearance.
• Must be willing to work overtime as required.
• Travel up to 10% of working time.

Skills:

• Ability  to work cross-functionally within the organization and drive product improvements throughout the lifecycle.
• Reading and interpreting technical drawings with a willingness to learn specification requirements.
• Complete engineering analysis utilizing basic formulas and routine calculations.
• Hands-on troubleshooting with a practical, detail-oriented mindset.
• Strong written communication skills, capable of producing clear and concise technical reports.
• Strong communication skills to effectively resolve challenges with internal teams and customers.
• Ability to plan and implement objectives within established timelines.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Willingness to work in a team-oriented culture and demonstrate behavior consistent with company values.
• Desire to learn and grow within the role.
• Ability and willingness to adhere to set policies and safety programs established by BN, clients, and regulatory agencies.

ITAR Requirements: To conform to U.S. Government commercial space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), 8 U.S.C. § 1324b(a)(3), applicants for employment at Barber-Nichols must be a U.S. citizen or national, lawfully admitted for permanent residence into the U.S. (i.e., current green card holder), or lawfully admitted as a refugee or granted asylum under 8 U.S.C. § 1157-1158. Security clearance is required for this position.

Equal Opportunity Employer:

Barber-Nichols is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any protected status as defined by law.

Compensation and Benefits:

 The salary range for this role is $70,000 - $85,000. This range represent the anticipated minimum and maximum base for this position based upon a good faith and reasonable estimate. The final compensation for this position will be set based on the applicant’s qualifications (education, training and/or experience related to this role), and therefore, may fall outside the range shown, depending on the circumstances.

To view our benefits provided please visit Careers | Barber-Nichols.

Barber Nichols anticipates the application window closing approximately 30 days from the date the notice was posted. However, factors such as candidate flow and business necessity may require Barber Nichols to shorten or extend the application window.