Autonomous Sensors Mechanical Engineer

LLNL•Livermore, CA

4d•Onsite

About The Position

We have an opening for a Mechanical Engineer to support the Autonomous Sensors Group within the National Security Engineering Division (NSED). The group develops advanced sensing technologies and integrated systems to enable mission-critical capabilities across a wide range of national security applications. The team focuses on the design and deployment of multistatic, ultra-wideband sensing systems featuring modular, scalable architectures and compact form factors. These systems enable real-time data acquisition, imaging, and detection, paired with intuitive visualization tools to support rapid operator understanding and decision-making. Solutions are designed to operate across multiple platforms, including mobile and autonomous systems, and are adaptable to a wide range of operational environments and mission needs. This role focuses on the mechanical design, integration, and deployment of ruggedized sensing systems operating in dynamic and austere environments. You will contribute to the development of modular hardware architectures, packaging solutions, and platform integration strategies that enable mobile, distributed sensing and real-time data delivery. Periodic field work and travel (approximately 2–4 weeks per year) will be required to support system integration and testing. This position is in the National Security Engineering Division (NSED) within the Engineering Directorate. This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work. This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

Requirements

Ability to secure and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. citizenship.
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field or the equivalent combination of education and related experience.
Fundamental knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, including design, materials, and manufacturing processes.
Fundamental knowledge and experience using SolidWorks or similar CAD software for mechanical design.
Ability to apply standard engineering techniques to solve well-defined technical problems.
Sufficient written and verbal communication skills to collaborate within a multidisciplinary team environment.
Ability to work under general direction in a dynamic, team-based research and development environment.
Ability to travel to support offsite field work.
Comprehensive knowledge and broad application of mechanical engineering principles to solve moderately complex problems for sensing platforms.
Experience independently designing and developing mechanical systems for real-world or fielded applications, including consideration of environmental constraints.
Demonstrated ability to work under limited direction and exercise independent judgment in selecting methods, techniques, and evaluation criteria.
Experience contributing to multidisciplinary system integration efforts and providing technical input to design trade studies and performance optimization.

Nice To Haves

Experience with sensor systems, RF hardware packaging, or integrated hardware platforms.
Experience designing modular or scalable hardware systems.
Familiarity with autonomous or unmanned systems (e.g., ground or aerial platforms).
Experience supporting field testing, deployment, or prototype development in operational environments.
Knowledge of operational environments requiring robust, ruggedized, and deployable engineering solutions.

Responsibilities

Design, develop, and support mechanical systems and hardware for advanced sensing platforms, including sensor arrays and modular enclosures.
Integrate mechanical subsystems into mobile and autonomous platforms operating in laboratory and field environments.
Perform analysis, testing, and evaluation of mechanical designs to ensure performance, durability, and environmental robustness.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop integrated sensing solutions.
Develop mechanical designs, models, and documentation to support system development and deployment.
Support prototyping, fabrication, and assembly of hardware systems for laboratory and field use.
Execute field testing activities, including system setup, troubleshooting, and data collection.
Document designs, analyses, and test results to support program deliverables and milestones.
Independently design and develop moderately complex mechanical systems and subsystems for sensing platforms.
Lead integration of mechanical components across subsystems and contribute to system-level performance optimization.
Apply engineering judgment to evaluate design trade-offs and recommend solutions to moderately complex technical challenges.