Principal Mechanical Engineer: Vacuum Valve Innovation Leader

MKS Inc.; Methuen (MA); On-site; USD 126,200 - 210,350; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance (medical, dental, and

401(k) with company match

Life and disability insurance

12 paid holidays

Sick time

15 paid vacation days

Fully paid parental leave

Tuition reimbursement

Job summary

MKS is seeking a seasoned engineer to develop and support vacuum valves, collaborating cross-functionally across product management, manufacturing, supply chain and applications. You will lead design, testing, and production transfer through the PDP, mentoring junior staff and ensuring high reliability.

The role requires hands-on prototype work, 3D CAD modeling, and strong analytical skills in mechanical, thermal, and vacuum domains, with up to 10% travel and an onsite work environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s in Engineering is required.
• 8+ years of relevant work experience.
• Experience with 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks preferred).
• Experience with manual and FEA analysis.
• Demonstrated strengths in Vacuum Technology.
• Experience with mechanical fabrication techniques (machining, welding, brazing, sheet metal).
• Technical experience in product development and manufacturing.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Partner with Product management, applications engineering and customers to develop innovative solutions for complex engineering challenges.
• Work within engineering to ideate, design and prototype through production via PDP.
• Mentor engineers and technicians in UHV principles and troubleshooting methods.
• Develop test plans for engineering performance and reliability.
• Design test fixtures and equipment for product performance and evaluation.
• Create specifications, perform analyses, and produce detailed 3D drawings.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and operations to ensure designs are manufacturable and reliable.
• Ensure products meet quality, performance, and regulatory requirements through testing and design verification.
• Travel up to 10% of time.

Skills

Vacuum technology

3D CAD modeling

FEA analysis

Strong communication

Teamwork

Manufacturing experience

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s in Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

Ansys

SolidWorks Simulation

Job description

MKS is seeking a seasoned engineer to develop and support vacuum valves, collaborating cross-functionally across product management, manufacturing, supply chain and applications. You will lead design, testing, and production transfer through the PDP, mentoring junior staff and ensuring high reliability.

The role requires hands-on prototype work, 3D CAD modeling, and strong analytical skills in mechanical, thermal, and vacuum domains, with up to 10% travel and an onsite work environment.