Mechanisms and Polymerics Engineer

Job Description

Analytical Mechanics Associates, Inc. (AMA) is seeking a Mechanisms Subject Matter Expert (SME) Engineer with knowledge of polymer chemistry and its use in mechanism development. The role is based in Hampton, VA. The candidate will develop and review mechanism designs, qualification and acceptance test plans and reports, and design and review polymer adhesives for space environments. They will also support aerospace flight vehicle mechanism systems and test articles used to evaluate and qualify aerospace vehicles, covering a range of hardware from manned and unmanned aircraft and space vehicles to individual system components and testing arrangements.

Salary Range: $90,000–$120,000 (dependent on education and experience).

• Review mechanism qualification and acceptance plans and reports.
• Support laboratory testing of structural concepts, including mechanical testing of components to generate structural properties, and perform robotic assembly of structures as needed (test design, set‑up, execution, data collection, and analysis).
• Provide CAD design and sizing of components for mechanism systems used on spaceflight hardware.
• Develop reports, presentations, and other documentation.
• Provide clear comments and guidance for qualification and acceptance plans and reports.
• Attend meetings and teleconferences and be ready to discuss issues in design, qualification, and acceptance plans and reports.
• Define the load environment of mechanism systems.

• For staff‑level Mechanical Engineers:
  Bachelor’s (or equivalent) with 2–4 years of experience, or a Master’s with 0–2 years of experience in aerospace/aeronautical/mechanical engineering.
• For senior‑level Mechanical Engineers:
  Bachelor’s (or equivalent) with 5–7 years of experience, or a Master’s with 3–5 years of experience in aerospace/aeronautical/mechanical engineering.
• Knowledge of mechanism acceptance standards for spaceflight applications.
• Demonstrated experience in CAD design and sizing of components for mechanism systems.
• Ability to travel to testing sites as needed.
• US citizenship is required.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• Preferred experience with Creo/ProE mechanisms.

U.S. Citizenship is required for this position.

AMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.