Senior Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer

Simmonds Precision • Vergennes, VT

9d

About The Position

Simmonds Precision is seeking a Senior Principal Mechanical Systems Engineer to join its Motion Controls business unit, which develops high power density Control Actuation Systems for military and aerospace applications. The engineer will shape next-generation actuation capabilities, drive technical execution across complex electromechanical systems, and influence product strategy. The role includes technical leadership across multidisciplinary teams, partnership with the Engineering Director on product strategy and roadmaps, customer-facing technical leadership, and oversight of engineering rigor throughout development, verification, and production. The position requires travel up to 20% of the time.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or advanced degree in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics (STEM).
• At least 12 years of relevant experience.
• Expertise in design and verification of electromechanical actuation systems.
• Demonstrated ability to lead engineering teams and drive execution plans.
• Experience in strategic planning, customer engagement, and contract capture.
• Proven capability managing cost, schedule, and technical performance in dynamic, multi-stakeholder environments.
• U.S. citizenship required.

Nice To Haves

• Strong desire to work closely in a team environment to make a difference.
• Demonstrated mentoring capability across multidisciplinary teams.
• Hands-on experience designing aerospace electromechanical control actuation systems, including ball screws, gear trains, bearings, BLDC and brushed DC motors, and control algorithms.
• Self-driven leadership style and adaptability across varying assignments.
• Experience with Risk & Opportunity Management.
• Advanced problem-solving skills and ability to communicate complex technical concepts to varied audiences.
• Excellent communication, technical writing, oral presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated experience across the product lifecycle, including concept development, architecture, design, integration, verification, and production.
• Proven ability to develop effective internal and external customer relationships to ensure customer satisfaction and mission success.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical leadership across multidisciplinary engineering teams, with responsibility for cost, schedule, and technical performance.
• Partner with the Engineering Director to shape product strategy, technology roadmaps, and long-term system architecture approaches.
• Ensure engineering rigor and technical integrity throughout development, verification, and production.
• Serve as a technical point of contact for senior customer counterparts, internal program management, and engineering leadership.
• Influence and align internal and external customers on technical capabilities, requirements, risks, and opportunities.
• Support capture of new business and influence technical and product-line roadmaps, ensuring they are reflected in program planning and execution.
• Lead introduction of system upgrades and incremental capability improvements.
• Drive solutions to improve yield for current production equipment.
• Provide mentorship, technical training, and guidance across engineering disciplines.
• Prepare clear, concise technical and programmatic reports to support informed leadership decision-making.
• Formulate strategies that balance user requirements with schedule and budget constraints.
• Travel up to 20% of the time.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• HSA and FSA options.
• Onsite cafeteria and fitness center.
• Competitive pay.
• Annual bonus opportunity.
• 401(k) plan with up to a 4% company match plus an additional annual employer contribution starting at 3%.
• Company-paid life and disability insurance.
• Four weeks of vacation.
• Five additional paid days during the annual holiday shutdown.
• Paid sick leave.
• Paid maternity and paternity leave.
• Up to $20,000 in annual tuition reimbursement.
• Professional development and learning opportunities.
• Supplemental insurance.
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Legal services.
• Identity theft protection.
• Discounted auto and home insurance.
• Pet insurance.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior