Principle Mechanical Engineer

Amentum•China Lake, CA

23h•$147,380 - $208,899•Onsite

About The Position

Amentum is hiring a Principle Mechanical Engineer for its engineering team in China Lake, California. This design-focused role spans the product lifecycle from early concept development through hardware fabrication, installation, and on-site operation. The engineer will support multiple U.S. Navy research and development facilities associated with submarine weapon system development programs, working on unique facilities that support high-priority programs. The role combines mechanical systems design, structural analysis, and technical support for high-pressure fluid systems with collaboration across engineering and operations teams. The engineer will lead and participate in design reviews, work with vendors to develop hardware from drawings through fabrication, and provide technical support during field installation and testing. The position combines office-based design and analysis with periodic field work during installation, testing, and commissioning. Approximately 33% travel is expected, typically planned well in advance.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a similar field from an ABET-accredited institution.
At least 15 years of mechanical engineering experience encompassing design, analysis, and project lifecycle management.
Proficiency with CAD and solid modeling software such as SolidWorks, AutoCAD, Autodesk Inventor, or similar.
Demonstrated experience performing structural analysis and interpreting results to inform design decisions.
Ability to read and produce engineering drawings, specifications, and work procedures.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to explain technical content to diverse audiences and produce professional engineering documentation.
Ability to work in field environments, including industrial and outdoor settings, as required.
Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain the clearance.

Nice To Haves

Experience designing high-pressure air and/or hydraulic systems, including familiarity with applicable ASME or ANSI standards.
Background in aerospace, defense, shipboard, or energy sector programs.
Experience leading preliminary and critical design reviews (PDR/CDR) and managing hardware through formal change control processes.
Professional Engineer (PE) license or Engineer-in-Training (EIT) certification.
Familiarity with vendor management, fabrication oversight, and factory acceptance testing.
Experience mentoring or guiding junior engineers or technicians.

Responsibilities

Oversee the design, development, and maintenance of mechanical systems and components to ensure performance, safety, and reliability.
Lead engineering teams in planning and executing complex projects from concept through production.
Establish engineering standards, policies, and best practices to promote technical excellence and operational efficiency.
Collaborate with manufacturing, quality, procurement, and other cross-functional teams to resolve technical challenges and meet project goals.
Review and approve designs, calculations, and specifications for compliance with industry codes and organizational requirements.
Manage budgets, schedules, and resources to deliver projects on time and within cost parameters.
Mentor and develop junior engineers.
Keep informed about emerging technologies and industry trends to guide innovation.
Lead and participate in design reviews.
Work with vendors to bring hardware from drawings through fabrication.
Provide technical support during field installation, testing, and commissioning.