Senior/Principal - Hypersonic Systems Mechanical Engineer, Onsite

Sandia National Laboratories; New Mexico; On-site; USD 117,500 - 235,700; Full time

Job summary

Sandia National Laboratories invites applications for a Senior/Principal Mechanical Engineer focused on hypersonic systems. This onsite role emphasizes mechanical structures, design, analysis, manufacturing, and testing across components and systems.

Responsibilities include creating manufacturing docs, troubleshooting, design updates, and leading extensive test campaigns. Collaboration with cross-functional teams and travel to facilities are required; DOE Q-level clearance is necessary.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent in engineering/science.
• DOE Q-level clearance capability is required.

Responsibilities

• Create and refine manufacturing and process docs, including assembly and test procedures.
• Troubleshoot production issues and perform root-cause analyses.
• Update designs to resolve production challenges.
• Plan and execute test campaigns at component, sub-system, and system levels.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to transition designs to production.
• Work in small and large teams to meet project goals.
• Travel to production facilities and test sites; onsite in Albuquerque.

Skills

Mechanical design

GD&T

Thermal analysis

Cross-functional teamwork

Documentation

Education

Bachelor's degree or equivalent

Graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

Creo

SolidWorks

Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools

Job description

Senior/Principal - Hypersonic Systems Mechanical Engineer, Onsite

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation’s premier science and engineering laboratory focused on national security and technology innovation.

We are looking for an R&D Mechanical Engineer to join the 5428 Product Transition Department and contribute to the delivery of Hypersonic systems to the Nation. The role requires a strong foundation in mechanical structures and a focus on design, analysis, manufacturing, and testing at both component and system levels.

Key Responsibilities

• Create and refine essential manufacturing and process documentation, including assembly and test procedures.
• Assist production agents by troubleshooting issues and conducting root‑cause analyses.
• Update designs as needed to resolve production challenges.
• Plan and execute comprehensive test campaigns at the component, sub‑system, and system levels.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to facilitate the transition of design packages from design to production.
• Work effectively on both small and large development teams to achieve project goals.
• Travel periodically to production facilities and remote test sites; travel may occur as often as once every 1–2 months. Onsite presence in Albuquerque is required.

Salary Range

$117,500 – $235,700 (estimated; final salary determined after assessment of experience and qualifications and any applicable geographic differential)

Qualifications We Require

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline or an equivalent combination of education and engineering/scientific experience that demonstrates the knowledge, skills, and ability to perform independent research and development.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a DOE Q‑level security clearance.

Qualifications We Desire

• Graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering or a highly related field with an independent research project or thesis.
• Experience with mechanical engineering and product realization in the NNSA complex.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills; ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Rapid understanding of mechanical/structural designs and ability to develop creative solutions to emerging concerns.
• Understanding of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) and its impact on production.
• Computer Aided Design software familiarity, especially Creo and/or SolidWorks.
• Experience with Structural and Thermal analysis, including Finite Element Analysis.
• Clear understanding of design and manufacturing optimization principles.
• Knowledge of Designing for Excellence (DFX) engineering practices.
• Experience in manufacturing or production of aerospace or missile systems for government-sponsored programs.
• Ability to work effectively on both small and large development teams, internally and externally, within Sandia.
• Experience creating and understanding product documentation such as design documents, assembly procedures, and Interface Control Documents.
• Experience working in a Design Agent and Production Agent collaborative situation.
• Commitment to ongoing personal and professional development.

Security Clearance

Applicants must be able to obtain and maintain a DOE Q‑level security clearance, which requires U.S. citizenship. Background investigation and drug testing will be conducted as part of the hiring process.

EEO Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or veteran status and any other protected class under state or federal law.

NNSA MedPED Requirements

If you have a Medical Portable Electronic Device (MedPED) such as a pacemaker, defibrillator, drug‑releasing pump, hearing aids, or other medical equipment, and you are selected for an on‑site interview, additional steps may be required to ensure compliance with NNSA security requirements.