Staff Mechanical Engineer - Defense Systems (Onsite)

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

Job summary

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our team at Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head on site.

The Staff Engineer will perform project engineering duties including cost proposals, planning, technical oversight, SOPs, QPPs, and ACPs. Candidates must have a mechanical engineering degree with 2-4 years (or Master with 0-2), US citizenship, ability to obtain Interim Secret clearance, and experience with energetic materials safety and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering or related field with 2–4 years of experience, or a Master’s with 0–2 years.
• U.S. Citizenship eligible for security clearance.
• Proven ability to manage multiple complex projects with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience with process safety and regulatory compliance.
• Strong leadership and cross‑functional teamwork skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for the safe and cost-effective execution of manufacturing projects with federal clients.
• Understand design requirements for process and facility design to install new manufacturing processes.
• Apply analytical techniques to support process development, troubleshooting, and optimization.
• Oversee project execution with detailed planning, scheduling, and procurement.
• Collaborate with vendors and subcontractors to communicate design, fabrication, and testing requirements.
• Develop goals with project managers to meet client objectives and deliverables.
• Implement safety and quality programs in line with contractual terms and regulatory standards.
• Produce process design documentation including PFDs, narratives, BOMs, and SOPs.
• Advise on safety standards and regulatory compliance for complex manufacturing facilities.

Skills

Leadership

Project management

Communication

Analytical skills

Regulatory compliance

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related scientific field

Master's degree with 0-2 years of experience

Job description

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join our team at Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head on site.

The Staff Engineer will perform project engineering duties including cost proposals, planning, technical oversight, SOPs, QPPs, and ACPs. Candidates must have a mechanical engineering degree with 2-4 years (or Master with 0-2), US citizenship, ability to obtain Interim Secret clearance, and experience with energetic materials safety and regulatory requirements.