Maritime Systems Mechanical Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 245,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Education assistance

Retirement contributions

Healthy work/life balance

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) seeks a Mechanical Engineer to advance maritime systems from concept to testing. Join the Ocean Systems and Engineering Group to prototype, design, fabricate, integrate, test, and evaluate cutting‑edge capabilities for Navy platforms and shore installations.

You will collaborate with government, industry, and academia, work hands‑on with emerging technologies, and help transition concepts into operational solutions while pursuing

Qualifications

• BS in Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or related field.
• Experience developing and analyzing mechanical systems.
• Naval architecture knowledge: hull design, stability, and structural analysis.
• CAD proficiency with SolidWorks, CREO, or similar tools.
• CFD modeling and finite element stress/thermal analysis experience.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes.
• Ability to multi-task and drive lifecycle programs.
• Strong written and verbal communication in a multidisciplinary team.
• Eligibility to obtain Interim Secret clearance by start date; potential Top Secret clearance; U.S. citizenship.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical systems and rapidly prototype using CAD tools.
• Lead mechanical engineering efforts from concept through testing.
• Analyze and test systems to inform design improvements.
• Develop test plans, run tests, analyze results, and document findings.
• Prepare technical documentation for projects.
• Investigate emerging technologies for maritime systems.
• Prepare design reviews, technical reports, and staff briefings.
• Assist in installation, testing, and maintenance aboard Navy platforms.
• Collaborate with program managers, fabrication shops, and vendors to design, build, integrate, and test new capabilities.

Skills

Mechanical system design

Prototype development

Team collaboration

Clear communication

Problem solving

Design reviews

Security clearance readiness

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

MS in Mechanical Engineering (advantage)

Tools

SolidWorks

CREO

CFD software

Job description

Description

Are you searching for groundbreaking mechanical engineering work?

Are you passionate about exploring innovative solutions and rapidly turning ideas into hardware for advanced maritime systems?

Do you thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment where your contributions make a real impact?

If so, we are looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support the advancement of maritime systems for our nation’s warfighters. As a member of the Ocean Systems and Engineering Group, you will contribute to the full lifecycle development of next‑generation maritime systems—from concept development and rapid prototyping through design, fabrication, integration, testing, and evaluation. You will collaborate with government, industry, and academia to push the limits of maritime technology. In this role, you’ll have the opportunity to work hands‑on with emerging technologies, rapidly develop and iterate engineering solutions, and help transition innovative concepts into operationally relevant capabilities.

As a Mechanical Engineer you will…

• Design mechanical systems and rapidly develop prototypes using CAD and other engineering design tools.
• Lead mechanical engineering efforts from concept and prototype development through integration and testing.
• Conduct analysis and testing of mechanical systems to inform iterative design improvements.
• Develop test plans, conduct tests, analyze results, and document findings.
• Prepare technical documentation for projects.
• Investigate emerging technologies and assess their application to maritime systems.
• Prepare and conduct design reviews, technical reports, and briefings for all levels of staff and Government agencies.
• Participate in the installation, testing, and maintenance of systems aboard Navy platforms and at shore installations.
• Work closely with JHU/APL Program Managers, Project Managers, fabrication shops, and external vendors to rapidly design, build, integrate, and test new capabilities.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Possess a BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or a related field.
• Have proven experience in developing and analyzing mechanical systems.
• Have proven experience with naval architecture principles, including hull design, stability, and structural analysis.
• Have experience with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) tools such as SolidWorks, CREO or other design packages.
• Have experience with Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modeling, stress, and thermal analysis using finite element software.
• Have knowledge of the manufacturing process.
• Have demonstrated initiative and ability to multi-task in a fast‑paced work environment and take a system through the Life‑Cycle process.
• Have ability to effectively work and communicate orally and in writing with other engineers, scientists, and technicians as a member of a multidisciplinary team.
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Top Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Possess an MS in Mechanical Engineering, Naval Architecture, Ocean Engineering, or a related field.
• Have experience with the design and integration of uncrewed vehicles and undersea sensors (acoustic and non-acoustic).
• Have experience with NAVSEA Temporary Alteration Design Package development.
• Have experience leading project teams.
• Have an active Top Secret level clearance.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world‑class expertise to our nation’s most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL’s campus is located in the Baltimore‑Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities at https://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL’s good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign‑on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‑term disability, long‑term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

Minimum Rate

$100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate

$245,000 Annually