Senior Mechanical Engineer

ThayerMahan, a leader in the Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) space, is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Mechanical Engineer to join and strengthen our growing mechanical engineering team in Groton, CT. This in-person, full-time role is ideal for a hands-on engineer who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about mentoring the next generation of engineers.

About the Role

You will play a critical role in the design, development, and deployment of marine systems while serving as a mentor and technical guide for a talented team of young engineers.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, analysis, and testing of mechanical components and systems for marine systems.
• Provide day-to-day mentorship to junior engineers, offering guidance on technical challenges, design reviews, best practices, and professional development.
• Take ownership of key technical projects, from concept through deployment, ensuring technical excellence and adherence to timelines.
• Work cross-functionally with electrical, software, and field operations teams to ensure cohesive system integration.
• Promote and help enforce consistent design practices, file management, drawing standards, and engineering documentation across the team.
• Identify opportunities to improve processes, tools, and methodologies in the engineering department.
• Actively participate in prototyping, troubleshooting, and field deployments when necessary.

Requirements

• U.S. Citizen.
• Holds a security clearance or can obtain one.
• B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 8+ years of professional mechanical engineering experience, preferably in robotics, ocean technology, or ruggedized field systems.
• Proficient in 3D CAD (Autodesk Inventor preferred), FEA, and drawing/drafting standards (ASME Y14.5).
• Demonstrated success in leading technical projects or products from concept to production.
• Strong interpersonal skills and proven experience mentoring or training junior engineers.
• Comfortable with hands-on work including prototyping, machining, and field assembly/testing.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in marine systems, underwater vehicles, or autonomous platforms.
• Familiarity with environmental sealing, corrosion resistance, and material selection for harsh environments.
• Exposure to design for manufacturability (DFM), design for assembly (DFA), and rapid prototyping techniques.
• Background in multidisciplinary system integration (mechanical + electrical/software).
• Prior experience in small to mid-sized companies or fast-paced R&D environments.

Benefits

• Competitive salary.
• Comprehensive total rewards package including medical, dental, vision, and 401K with employer match.
• Opportunity to continue developing your career at a growing organization.