Mechanical Design Engineer - Tooling

HRL Laboratories pioneers the next frontiers of physical and information science, delivering transformative technologies in automotive, aerospace, and defense.

As a Mechanical Engineer, you will own the design, simulation, and experimental analysis of cutting‑edge electro‑mechanical hardware assemblies, leading cross‑functional teams from product inception straight through to closeout.

• Generate and maintain design, simulations, and/or conduct experimental analysis of advanced electro‑mechanical hardware assemblies
• Generate product make/buy drawings with associated KPI & GD&T
• Report and present, both formally (via design review presentations) and informally (via technology interchange meetings and slide shows), mechanical design and analyses to customers (internal and external), and work with key stakeholders to optimize system design
• Maintain project budget and schedule using an Integrated Master Schedule (IMS)
• Create and track device performance trends as well as manufacturing process effectiveness using SPC
• Lead a team from product inception to program closeout
• Candidate is expected to understand infrared hardware from a macro and micro perspective

• Bachelor’s or master’s in mechanical engineering or related field
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in a design and manufacturing environment, preferably with infrared devices
• Hands‑on experience building hardware in a laboratory setting
• Strong background in precision alignment, chip interconnect, and adhesive bonding
• Capital equipment procurement and lab design knowledge preferred
• Experience with product review cycles (IE PDR/CDR/MRR/HAR) with customers and suppliers
• Proficient with CAD software (Solid Works) and developing and reading mechanical drawings, technical writing for build history and test reporting
• General knowledge of GD&T is required and how it relates to processing methods
• Knowledge of tool design for specialized processing methods
• Understanding of MIL, ASTM, ASME, AWS, IPC, NASA standards
• Understanding and use of earned value metrics for tracking budget, task prioritization/scheduling, and resource management

• Experience with cryogenics
• Experience with imaging components
• Experience conducting thermal mechanical analysis (FEA), preferably with COMSOL or Abaqus

• Proficiency in use of computers, engineering workstations
• Excellent verbal and written communication, and positive minded interaction with customers/colleagues in a deadline‑driven / changing priority environment
• Must be self‑starting and motivated
• Ability to work in a cleanroom with appropriate PPE
• Must be able to lift 25 lbs.

• US citizenship with ability to obtain and maintain US Government security clearance

Pay Range
: $140,700 - $175,950

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location (California). The range displayed on each job posting reflects the target range for new hire salaries for this position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job‑related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process.

• Benefits
  : HRL offers a generous and very competitive total compensation and benefits package. Our regular/full‑time benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k) match, gym facilities, PTO, sick time, upward mobility, and an exciting and challenging work environment.
• For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit

Don’t meet every single requirement? Studies have shown that some people are less likely to apply to jobs unless they meet every single desired qualification. At HRL, we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway.

You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

We are proud to be an EEO/AA employer M/F/D/V. We maintain a drug‑free workplace and perform pre‑employment substance abuse testing.

If you would like more information about Equal Employment Opportunity as an applicant under the law, please go to Employees & Job Applicants | U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

For our privacy policy please visit