Lead Mechanical Engineer

United Protective Technologies; Locust (NC); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading defense technology firm is seeking a highly experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer to oversee the design and development of innovative mechanical systems. This role involves leading R&D teams, ensuring compliance with industry standards, and converting concepts into production-ready solutions. Candidates should have a Master’s degree and significant experience in mechanical or electromechanical systems. The ideal candidate will be adept in project management and technical writing, and must be a U.S. citizen. This is a full-time position located in North Carolina.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Demonstrated ability to employ first principles in design concept development across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Proven track record of leading multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Lead multidisciplinary R&D teams for project execution.
• Generate innovative solutions from complex project requirements.
• Conduct laboratory and field testing in DoD-specific environments.

Skills

Leadership

Technical expertise in mechanical systems

Project management

Analytical thinking

Technical writing

Education

Master’s degree or higher in Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering

Job description

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Location: Charlotte, NC | Salary: $100,000.00 - $130,000.00

We are seeking a highly experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer with a strong background in engine and mechanical systems design and multidisciplinary R&D engineering. This role requires leadership and deep technical expertise to design, develop, analyze, and test innovative mechanical systems for Department of Defense (DoD) applications. The successful candidate will lead cross‑functional teams, convert conceptual ideas into production‑ready solutions, and ensure compliance with applicable standards while driving innovation from first principles through to field testing and deployment.

Responsibilities

• Lead multidisciplinary R&D teams comprised of electrical, chemical, materials science, mechanical, software, and systems engineers, as well as program management, to ensure successful project execution.
• Generate functional solutions from complex project requirements through innovative conceptual design and cost‑effective system development.
• Provide experienced technical expertise and mentorship to engineers, scientists, and support personnel.
• Lead teams to design, prototype, and test novel technologies ranging from small combustion‑driven engine systems to advanced materials and coatings.
• Conduct laboratory and field testing in DoD‑specific environments.
• Author and review technical reports, white papers, proposals, and documentation supporting R&D projects.
• Convert internally developed technologies into deployable and profitable innovations.
• Ensure designs comply with relevant safety, quality, and industry standards, including applicable military standards (MIL‑STD).
• Provide both engineering leadership and technical development to drive project completion.
• Work under the direction of Program Managers, and alongside Principal Investigators or Project Engineers.
• Must wear appropriate PPE as needed and adhere to all safety standards.

Qualifications

• Must be a U.S. Citizen.
• Demonstrated ability to employ first principles in design concept development across multiple engineering disciplines.
• Demonstrated ability to lead multidisciplinary engineering teams to develop state‑of‑the‑art technologies.
• Experience leading design teams to develop mechanical and/or electromechanical systems to meet design requirements including thermal, acoustic, and vibration requirements, etc.
• Ability to convert internally developed technologies into profitable innovations.
• Must possess theoretical and practical technical and analytical thinking skills with a detail‑oriented approach.
• Demonstrated ability to take designs from concept to production and manage projects to schedule.
• Proven track record of technical writing (reports, proposals, publications). Samples may be required.
• Must be able to pass a background check and drug screen.

Desired Skills

• Practical knowledge of AS9100 or other quality management systems.
• Experience serving as Principal Investigator on government‑sponsored projects.
• Extensive experience with the design, development, and testing of small combustion‑driven engine systems.
• Experience with thin‑film coatings, power production, or energy harvesting technologies.
• FE certification or PE license in Engineering.
• Familiarity with Technology Readiness Levels (TRLs) and the process of advancing innovative technologies from concept to deployment.

Education & Experience

• Education: Master’s degree or higher in Mechanical, Electrical, or Systems Engineering.
• Engineer with 12+ years’ experience in state‑of‑the‑art research, design and development engineering.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience leading multidisciplinary R&D engineering teams.
• Experience with various engineering sensing, testing and analysis technologies.

Seniority Level

Mid‑Senior level

Employment Type

Full‑time

Job Function & Industries

Engineering and Information Technology | Aviation and Aerospace Component Manufacturing