R&D Mechanical Engineer - Component Engineer, Onsite

Sandia National Laboratories is the nation’s premier science and engineering lab for national security and technology innovation, with teams of specialists focused on cutting-edge work in a broad array of areas. The lab offers challenging work with impact, extraordinary co-workers, state-of-the-art tools and facilities, and opportunities for career advancement and enrichment. Flexible work arrangements, generous benefits, and a solid work/life balance are available, varying by job classification.

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated Component Engineer to join the Interconnects Technologies Department. This role involves the design, development, and qualification of complex cables and related interconnect components for high-consequence applications. You will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to solve challenging issues for national security.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement mechanical solutions to cable assemblies and interconnect challenges in complex systems.
• Collaborate with design engineers, systems engineers, quality engineers, and subject matter experts to execute mission-critical designs.
• Design and develop adapter cables and mechanical fixtures for electrical and environmental test applications.
• Implement GD&T and conventional dimensioning to cable assemblies and fixture design definitions.
• Design and develop mechanical components for cable assemblies, interconnects, and electrical components to meet system-level requirements.
• Team with system engineers and stakeholders to establish component-level requirements.
• Collaborate with Production Agencies to incorporate defect prevention and design for manufacturability.
• Investigate and lead troubleshooting of interconnects and corresponding test equipment.
• Provide evaluation and technical analysis on large amounts of test data.
• Write technical reports, perform cost estimates, work technical issues, and present results/findings.
• Provide quality products with supporting qualification evidence that satisfy customer requirements within cost/schedule constraints.
• Implement sound mechanical engineering principles on high-reliability and high-consequence cable assemblies and interconnects.

Due to the nature of the work, this candidate must be able to work onsite. Some travel is required.

Requirements

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

Qualifications

• Graduate degree in Mechanical Engineering or a highly related field where an independent research project was a graduation requirement (e.g., independent project, thesis, or dissertation).
• Experience with mechanical engineering and product realization in the NNSA complex.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Component or subsystem design experience that includes electrical, electromechanical, or mechanical design practices.
• Experience in applying, rationalizing, and negotiating GD&T fundamentals.
• Mechanical modeling expertise with proficiency in PTC CREO.
• Experience in the application of engineering principles and the scientific method.
• Experience collaborating with ECAD and Product Realization.
• Knowledge of the Nuclear Deterrence (ND) product realization, design, production, and qualification processes.
• Knowledge of the ND drawing and Engineering Authorization system.
• Knowledge of ND drawing requirements (CDs, MEs, PSs, SSs, etc.).
• Demonstrated application of design guides/specifications (e.g., design for manufacturability, design for environmental specifications).
• Experience teaming, collaborating, and negotiating with Nuclear Security Enterprise (NSE) stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to identify design/requirement shortcomings, articulate impacts, and drive resolution with customers.
• Active DOE Q-level security clearance.

About Our Team

The Interconnect Technologies Department designs, develops, tests, and qualifies cable assemblies (high voltage, RF, flat-flex, multi-wire, and fiber optic), junction boxes, and adapter assemblies. The team also designs, fabricates, and deploys specialized equipment and testers for products where commercial solutions are unavailable. Capabilities include addressing high-reliability, radiation tolerance, nuclear safety, and size/weight restrictions. The department employs defect prevention strategies and adheres to safety, process controls, and quality principles.

Pay

Salary range is estimated at $102,400 - $199,700. Actual salary will be determined based on the selected candidate's experience, qualifications, and any approved geographic salary differential.

Benefits

• Flexible work arrangements (e.g., 9/80 or 4/10 compressed workweeks, part-time work, telecommuting).
• Generous vacation and strong medical benefits.
• Competitive 401k plan.
• Learning opportunities and relocation assistance.
• Amenities aimed at creating a solid work/life balance.