Maritime Systems Mechanical Engineer — Rapid Prototyping

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

Job summary

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support maritime systems development for national defense. You will contribute across the full lifecycle from concept to testing, collaborating with government, industry, and academia to push maritime technology forward.

The role emphasizes hands-on design, rapid prototyping, and integration with cross-functional teams, including program managers and fabrication shops, in a fast-paced environment in

Qualifications

• 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 CAD tools such as SolidWorks, CREO or other design packages.
• Have experience with 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.

Responsibilities

• 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.

Skills

CAD tools

CFD Analysis

Structural Analysis

Naval Architecture

Team Collaboration

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

MS in Mechanical Engineering

Naval Architecture background

Tools

SolidWorks

CREO

Finite Element Software

Job description

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support maritime systems development for national defense. You will contribute across the full lifecycle from concept to testing, collaborating with government, industry, and academia to push maritime technology forward.

The role emphasizes hands-on design, rapid prototyping, and integration with cross-functional teams, including program managers and fabrication shops, in a fast-paced environment in