Staff Mechanical Engineer

ARA’s team solves problems related to national defense and security.

About the role

The Staff Engineer will perform project engineering duties such as preparation of cost proposals, planning project execution, providing technical oversight and solutions, preparing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), Quality Project Plans (QPPs), and Alternate Control Plans (ACPs). Engineers will locate, review, and verify Technical Data Packages (TDP), MIL SPEC/MIL STDs, and resolve technical issues by submitting and tracking Request for Variance(s) for OR-99s and ORDALTS.

The duties of this role must be performed entirely onsite within a high-activity environment that features standard industrial/office lighting and ambient noise. Because continuous proximity to the team and operations is an essential function of the position, certain workspace modifications—such as isolating the worker in a quiet, dimly lit, or entirely private office—cannot be accommodated while fulfilling the core responsibilities of this role. Employment is contingent upon the successful attainment of at least an Interim Secret clearance, granted by the sponsoring agency. Candidates must be US citizens residing within the US. This position is located at the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head and does not allow for a remote or hybrid work schedule.

Responsibilities

• Provide leadership for the safe and cost-effective execution of manufacturing capabilities in complex production environments, in collaboration with federal defense clients.
• Acquire in-depth 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 to validate and support proof of concept designs.
• Oversee the proper execution of projects, including detailed planning, scheduling, and procurement aligned with customer specifications.
• Collaborate closely with program management counterparts to develop comprehensive plans for technical deliverables and schedules.
• Collaborate with equipment vendors and subcontractors, clearly communicating design, fabrication, and testing requirements for process equipment.
• In partnership with project managers, develop, plan, and execute goals that align with client objectives and ensure timely, quality deliverables.
• Participate in regular client-facing meetings to update progress and facilitate technical discussion.
• Implement and monitor safety and quality programs, ensuring all project staff adhere to contractual terms, scope of work, regulatory requirements, and client-specific quality and safety standards.
• Produce detailed process design documentation, including process flow diagrams, process narratives, equipment bills of material, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Provide technical input into facility design, advising on safety standards and regulations for the design and operation of complex manufacturing process facilities.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related scientific field with 2-4 years of related work experience, or a Master's with 0-2 years of experience.
• U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain a security clearance.
• Proven proficiency in a range of analytical and technical skills for the synthesis, monitoring, and scaling of energetic materials.
• Demonstrated experience managing multiple, complex projects, including the integration and coordination of diverse stakeholders such as government agencies, contractors, and vendors.
• Experience with process safety and material handling ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Excellent leadership and coordination skills, with a track record of leading and mentoring multi-disciplinary engineering teams across multiple project phases.
• Ability to work effectively in high-pressure, dynamic environments, managing rapid changes in program scope, funding, and priorities.
• Strong written and oral communication skills, with the ability to tailor presentations and reports to diverse technical and non-technical audiences.
• Ability to undergo and pass a Department of Transportation compliant medical physical exam.
• Ability to undergo and pass a drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced Degree in an engineering or related technical field is preferred.
• Extensive experience in the design, handling, and production of energetic materials for defense applications.
• Deep understanding of process engineering integration, especially within complex production environments for explosives and energetic materials.
• Experience in managing production modernization projects, particularly in the design and implementation of new manufacturing capabilities.
• Active Department of Defense (DoD) security clearance is highly desired.

Pay

Anticipated salary range: $87,000 - $115,000