Principal Design Engineer – Sustaining Programs (Onsite)

RTX•Rome, NY

1d•Onsite

About The Position

We’re seeking a Principal Design Engineer who thrives on solving complex, high-impact problems, someone who measures success not just by completing tasks, but by the value created through innovative, data-driven solutions. This is a role for a technical leader who loves rolling up their sleeves, improving processes, and driving projects from concept to execution. You will lead and inspire cross-functional teams, working closely with Quality, Manufacturing, and Production to implement engineering solutions that protect product integrity, enhance producibility, and deliver measurable, sustainable results. If you enjoy turning challenges into improvements and seeing the direct impact of your work on products and processes, this is the role for you.

Requirements

Typically requires a degree in Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics (STEM) and minimum 8 years prior relevant experience or an Advanced Degree in a related field and minimum 5 years of experience
U.S. citizenship is required, as only U.S. citizens are authorized to access information under this program/contract.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, demonstrating a strong technical foundation
Proven experience in automotive, manufacturing, or aerospace industries, applying engineering expertise to complex, high-impact projects
Hands-on experience with dynamics, vibrations, and rotating equipment, solving challenging mechanical problems
Exceptional problem-solving skills, including RCCA, Statistical Process Control (SPC), and Lean Manufacturing, to drive measurable improvements
Proficiency with CAD systems and 3D modeling tools, enabling precise design, analysis, and manufacturing solutions
Influential and collaborative leader, with a track record of successfully guiding cross-functional teams and delivering engineering projects that achieve tangible results

Responsibilities

Provide experienced engineering support to production by training cross-functional teams on engineering requirements, product functionality, and preservation of product integrity throughout manufacturing processes
Analyze and disposition discrepant material based on technical assessment and product function
Drive engineering changes to improve producibility of legacy products, supported by strong technical substantiation
Liaise with New Product Introduction (NPI) teams to ensure seamless transition from Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) through full-rate production
Lead engineering projects aimed at reducing non-conformances caused by process variation or measurement system error
Facilitate root cause identification and clear problem definition with manufacturing cell teams
Design and execute test plans to evaluate risk and validate proposed changes
Review and assess measurement systems and tools, recommending improvements where needed
Implement corrective actions and monitor effectiveness using objective data
Create, update, and sustain site procedures to ensure long-term process stability
Communicate project progress and results through presentations and by leading technical discussions with senior leadership and customers
Apply advanced-to-expert knowledge of engineering principles to solve complex problems and guide project direction
Mentor early-career engineers, sharing technical expertise and supporting professional growth
Utilize strong proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) to ensure design and manufacturing accuracy