Staff Mechanical Engineer — Defense Manufacturing Leader

ARA Brand; Indian Head (MD); On-site; USD 87,000 - 115,000; Full time

Job summary

Applied Research Associates, Inc. seeks a Staff Mechanical Engineer to lead manufacturing process design and safe execution within a high-activity, onsite environment at NSWC-IH, Indian Head. U.S.

citizenship with ability to obtain a security clearance is required. The role emphasizes leadership, project planning, and coordination with government agencies, contractors, and vendors. Anticipated Salary Range: $87,000 - $115,000.

Qualifications

• U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain a security clearance.
• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field; 2–4 years experience (Master's with 0–2 years).
• Experience with process safety and material handling compliance.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for safe and cost-effective execution of manufacturing capabilities in complex production environments with federal defense clients.
• Acquire understanding of design requirements for process and facility design to install new manufacturing processes.
• Apply analytical techniques to support process development, troubleshooting, and optimization; assist in development test plans.
• Oversee project execution with detailed planning, scheduling, and procurement aligned with customer specs.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors and subcontractors on design, fabrication, and testing requirements.
• Develop, plan, and execute goals with project managers and participate in client meetings to discuss progress.
• Implement and monitor safety and quality programs ensuring contractual terms and regulatory standards are met.
• Produce process design documentation including flow diagrams, narratives, BOMs, and SOPs.
• Provide input into facility design focusing on safety standards and regulations for complex manufacturing facilities.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Team coordination

Safety compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Master's degree (preferred) in engineering

Tools

MIL SPEC/MIL STDs

Job description

Applied Research Associates, Inc. seeks a Staff Mechanical Engineer to lead manufacturing process design and safe execution within a high-activity, onsite environment at NSWC-IH, Indian Head. U.S.

citizenship with ability to obtain a security clearance is required. The role emphasizes leadership, project planning, and coordination with government agencies, contractors, and vendors. Anticipated Salary Range: $87,000 - $115,000.