Mechanical Engineer V

About the role

This role executes mechanical engineering work for defense, national security, and space programs. The position enables mission-critical testing, design, and analysis to advance national security objectives and exploration frontiers.

Software engineers turn product ideas into working code. Engineers work in small teams, review each other's work, and ship in small batches. Most teams follow agile practices such as sprints and daily standups. Engineers also write tests, fix bugs, and improve performance. The field values clear communication as much as technical skill. Engineers spend part of every week on planning, code review, and debugging, not just writing new code. The ability to explain a technical decision in plain words separates strong engineers from the rest.

Key facts

What you'll do

Testing expertise frames test strategies, designs complex setups, and develops custom fixtures to optimize testing processes. Testing leadership manages large-scale, high-risk test programs, troubleshoots instrumentation, and analyzes measurement uncertainties for critical missions.

Communications mastery structures technical presentations, writes precise technical documents, and provides expert consultation on communication challenges and audience engagement. Communication excellence ensures clarity and accuracy for stakeholders and program partners.

Design understanding supports system integration and performance verification across mechanical domains.

Modeling accuracy enables clear interpretation of GD&T and supports detailed engineering documentation.

Systems engineering connects testing with verification and validation of requirements, aligning test objectives with program goals. Systems insight coordinates program plans, acquisition life cycles, and cross-team activities to maintain traceability and compliance.

Project management skills guide small teams, develop procurement strategies, and manage schedules and simple proposals within operational research principles. Project oversight includes vendor evaluation, supplier performance analysis, and contract management practices.

Ballistics understanding supports performance prediction and design decisions for propulsion systems.

System performance modeling uses standard techniques, diagrams, and specifications to implement basic algorithms and control systems. Performance modeling translates requirements into solutions that meet mission needs.

Requirements rigor ensures traceable, testable specifications that guide engineering decisions.

Analysis tasks employ CFD tools, navigate software interfaces, and run simulations to evaluate design options.

Avionics awareness identifies components and connections to support basic software and system designs.

U.S. Security Clearance eligibility and maintenance are mandatory due to export regulations and ITAR controls.

Travel capability must accommodate approximately 10% of time for collaboration and program needs.

Nice to have

Rocket motor design and testing experience strengthens propulsion and test program ownership.

Current DoD Top Secret SCI Security Clearance reduces onboarding time for sensitive programs.

Master of Science in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or relevant disciplines deepens technical depth for complex challenges.

Skills & tools

General engineering tools such as CAD, analysis software, and test instrumentation are used under guidance.

Practical notes

Security Clearance under ITAR regulations.

Travel is required approximately 10% of the time for project and program activities.

This role operates within a defense, national security, and space technology environment focused on mission-critical outcomes.

Typical interview steps

Hiring for engineering roles usually starts with a recruiter screen, followed by one or two technical rounds. Candidates often solve a coding problem, discuss past projects, and answer system design questions. Some loops include a take-home task. Final rounds typically cover team fit and give candidates a chance to ask questions. Interviewers look for how you break down an unfamiliar problem, not just whether you reach the answer. Practicing a few problems aloud and reviewing your own past projects are the best preparation.

Good to know

The role involves high-risk testing, advanced propulsion systems, and rigorous analysis in a regulated environment.

Work combines design, testing, and systems engineering to deliver solutions that protect national interests and expand exploration.

The team operates under strict export controls and security requirements to ensure compliance and mission success.