Lead Mechanical Engineer, Motion & Actuation Systems

Northrop Grumman; Elkton (MD); On-site; USD 99,000 - 185,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Northrop Grumman in Elkton, MD seeks a Principal or Sr. Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead mechanical design for motion control hardware in the PS&C unit. You will own actuator designs, motor/gearbox integration, and thermal performance, working closely with electrical and systems teams.

The role requires leadership experience, strong mechanical analysis skills, and the ability to obtain a Secret clearance. Travel up to 25% is expected on programs that demand cross-site collaboration.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering with 5+ years of relevant experience or advanced degrees with commensurate experience.
• Ability to obtain a Secret Clearance (U.S. Citizenship required).
• Willingness to travel 10–25% as required for program needs.
• Experience integrating mechanical designs with ECAD—boards, harnesses, connectors, sensors.

Responsibilities

• Own the mechanical design of actuators, mechanisms, and motion control hardware from concept through design, release, and test.
• Develop, iterate, and maintain 3D CAD models and drawings (Siemens NX), including GD&T and manufacturing details.
• Perform or lead mechanical analyses (stress, kinematics, thermal, life/fatigue) and document results clearly.
• Collaborate with electrical, systems, motors, and gearboxes teams to ensure integration and performance.
• Lead or support FMEA/FMECA and RCCA activities; close non-conformances through corrective actions.
• Track scope, schedule, and budget; raise issues early and propose technical options.
• Coordinate with procurement and manufacturing to ensure manufacturability and on-time delivery.

Skills

Mechanical design

Electromechanical systems

Motor and gearbox design

Thermal analysis

CAD/ECAD integration

FMEA/RCCA

Systems requirements decomposition

GD&T

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering

Master’s degree in Engineering

PhD in Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

Siemens Teamcenter

Job description

Northrop Grumman in Elkton, MD seeks a Principal or Sr. Principal Mechanical Engineer to lead mechanical design for motion control hardware in the PS&C unit. You will own actuator designs, motor/gearbox integration, and thermal performance, working closely with electrical and systems teams.

The role requires leadership experience, strong mechanical analysis skills, and the ability to obtain a Secret clearance. Travel up to 25% is expected on programs that demand cross-site collaboration.