Mechanical Engineer Associate

Saic; Lakehurst (NJ); On-site; USD 80,001 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Saic is looking for motivated Mechanical Engineers in Lakehurst, NJ, to support the Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment programs, specifically EMALS and AAG. This entry to mid-level position involves designing, developing, and testing mechanical systems critical to naval aviation. Applicants must have a Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and be U.S. citizens able to qualify for a DoD Secret clearance. The salary range is $80,001 - $120,000 based on experience. Travel up to 30% may be required.

Qualifications

• 0–2 years of engineering experience, including internships or co-op programs.
• Strong understanding of materials science, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics.
• Hands-on experience troubleshooting and testing mechanical systems.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineering teams to design, develop, and optimize mechanical systems.
• Perform detailed mechanical calculations and troubleshooting.
• Conduct engineering investigations, including failure analysis.

Skills

Proficiency in CAD software (ProE/CREO or AutoCAD)

Problem-solving skills

Communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

ProE/CREO

AutoCAD

Job description

Description

We are seeking motivated Mechanical Engineers to join our team supporting the Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment (ALRE), specifically the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) programs. These systems play a critical role in naval aviation operations, providing advanced solutions for aircraft launches and recoveries aboard Ford-class aircraft carriers.

This role offers opportunities for entry to mid-level engineers to work on the design, development, testing, troubleshooting, and ongoing support of high-performance mechanical systems for defense applications. Candidates will contribute to innovative projects that align with national security priorities, including system installations and emergency troubleshooting aboard active vessels or at test sites.

Must be local to the Lakehurst, NJ area and onsite a minimum of 4 days a week. Must be a US citizen and able to qualify for a DoD Secret clearance. Travel of up to 20-30%, including internationally, is required.

Key Responsibilities

• Collaborate with engineering teams to design, develop, analyze, and optimize complex mechanical systems and components for AAG/EMALS.
• Develop and interpret engineering drawings and technical specifications using CAD software (e.g., CREO Parametric or AutoCAD).
• Perform detailed mechanical calculations, including stress analysis, thermal/fluid analysis, and bolted joint analysis.
• Troubleshoot mechanical systems, including hydraulic systems, generators, and large motors, to determine suitability of repairs and provide recommendations.
• Conduct engineering investigations, including failure analysis and root cause assessments, and present solutions to stakeholders.
• Lead small- to large-scale design projects, ensuring proper interfacing with the greater system and adherence to quality standards.
• Execute testing, validation, and troubleshooting procedures at various sites, including test locations, manufacturing facilities, and naval vessels.
• Develop and review maintenance procedures and provide technical recommendations to improve system performance and operational safety.
• Proactively respond to emergency calls, providing hands‑on shipboard support to troubleshoot, repair, and test systems in high‑pressure environments (may fall outside normal working hours).
• Support manufacturing activities, including engineering change reviews (e.g., REIs, waivers, variances), and verify compliance with system requirements.
• Prepare technical documentation and reports for presentation to program leadership and other stakeholders.

About the Systems

The Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) uses cutting‑edge electromagnetic technology to enable precise aircraft launches from Ford‑class naval carriers. The Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG) is a modular, high‑performance system designed for safe and controlled recovery of naval aircraft. These systems are critical to operational success and national security, requiring innovative engineers dedicated to maintaining and advancing their capabilities.

If you are passionate about contributing to technologically advanced defense systems that support the U.S. Navy’s mission, we encourage you to apply!

Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field.

Required Experience:

• Entry Level: 0–2 years of engineering experience, including internships or co‑op programs, working on complex mechanical systems
• Proficiency in CAD software such as ProE/CREO or AutoCAD.
• Expertise in developing and reviewing engineering drawings and schematics, including proper geometric dimensioning and tolerancing.
• Strong understanding and application of materials science, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and fatigue/fracture mechanics.
• Hands‑on experience troubleshooting and testing mechanical systems, including analyzing and resolving system issues.
• Comfortable working in challenging environments, such as onboard naval vessels, test sites, or manufacturing facilities.
• Excellent problem‑solving and communication skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross‑functional teams.
• Ability to travel up to 30% of the time, including internationally and aboard ships.
• Must be a U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret Clearance (active clearance preferred).

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working on EMALS, AAG, or similar electromagnetic/launch/recovery systems.
• Familiarity with military specifications/standards (e.g., MIL-STD).
• Experience conducting engineering investigations and resolving manufacturing variances.
• Knowledge of non‑destructive inspection (NDI) methods.
• Familiarity with the Systems Engineering Technical Review (SETR) process.
• Experience working aboard active naval vessels.
• Active Secret Security Clearance.

Target salary range: $80,001 - $120,000. The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position based on experience and other factors.