Mechanical Engineer - Fluid Dynamics

Critical Fit Recruiting; St. Louis (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Critical Fit Recruiting is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to optimize manufacturing processes for energetic components, improving yield, throughput, and safety. The role involves tooling design, documentation, and close collaboration with Quality and Design Engineering on new product development.

Candidates should have 3–5 years in manufacturing engineering, CAD proficiency, GD&T/SPC knowledge, and strong problem-solving abilities. U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in manufacturing/ mechanical/ industrial engineering or related field.
• 3–5 years of manufacturing engineering experience in a production environment.
• Proficiency with CAD software and Microsoft Office applications.
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, GD&T, and SPC.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills with root cause analysis methodologies.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain DoD security clearance.
• Preferred: experience in energetics, pyrotechnics, ammunition, or other high-hazard manufacturing operations.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for energetic components and assemblies to improve yield, throughput, and quality.
• Design and specify tooling, fixtures, and equipment to support production operations and new product introductions.
• Create and maintain manufacturing documentation including process sheets, work instructions, and standard operating procedures.
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for production issues, non-conformances, and process deviations.
• Collaborate with Quality Engineering to establish and refine in-process controls, inspection methods, and acceptance criteria.
• Support Design Engineering during new product development and design-for-manufacturability reviews.
• Lead or participate in continuous improvement initiatives, lean manufacturing projects, and cost reduction efforts.
• Provide technical support to production personnel and troubleshoot manufacturing challenges in real time.

Skills

Manufacturing Engineering

Process Optimization

Root Cause Analysis

Statistical Process Control

Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing

Problem Solving

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related technical field

Tools

CAD software

Microsoft Office

Job description

We're looking for a Mechanical Engineer to apply engineering principles to improve manufacturing efficiency, quality, and safety while supporting the production of critical defense components including electric and stab detonators, CAD/PAD systems, and other energetic assemblies.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop, implement, and optimize manufacturing processes for energetic components and assemblies to improve yield, throughput, and quality
• Design and specify tooling, fixtures, and equipment to support production operations and new product introductions
• Create and maintain manufacturing documentation including process sheets, work instructions, and standard operating procedures
• Conduct root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for production issues, non-conformances, and process deviations
• Collaborate with Quality Engineering to establish and refine in-process controls, inspection methods, and acceptance criteria
• Support Design Engineering during new product development and design-for-manufacturability reviews
• Lead or participate in continuous improvement initiatives, lean manufacturing projects, and cost reduction efforts
• Provide technical support to production personnel and troubleshoot manufacturing challenges in real time

BACKGROUND PROFILE:

• Bachelor's degree in Manufacturing Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or related technical field
• 3–5 years of manufacturing engineering experience in a production environment
• Proficiency with CAD software and Microsoft Office applications
• Strong understanding of manufacturing processes, GD&T, and statistical process control principles
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and experience with root cause analysis methodologies
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• U.S. citizenship required; ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in energetics, pyrotechnics, ammunition, or other high-hazard manufacturing operations
• Familiarity with defense industry quality standards (AS9100, MIL-STD, MIL-SPEC)
• Experience with explosives safety protocols and handling procedures
• Lean Six Sigma certification or demonstrated experience with continuous improvement methodologies
• Experience supporting DCMA oversight and government contract manufacturing requirements