Deputy Section Manager, Mechanical Design Space Exploration

Overview

Are you passionate about human space exploration, understanding the origins of the universe, and working with a diverse team to make a difference? We are seeking a Deputy Section Manager, Mechanical Design for Space Exploration Applications to join the JETSII Contract with NASA. This role supports the Mechanical Design Section Manager and oversees approximately 40 personnel across mechanical system development.

• Management support for approximately 10–20 hours per week; remaining time dedicated to design-related tasking, including design execution, modeling, drawing generation, leadership on mechanical design tasks, cost estimate generation, and participation in quick-response efforts.
• Assist the Section Manager in ensuring employees follow established procedures and deliver work products aligned with schedule, budget, and quality expectations.
• Maintain adequate mechanical design personnel coverage for Project Managers; participate in meetings with Project Managers to provide updates and gather feedback.
• Support routine mechanical design reviews focusing on cost, schedule, risk, and deliverable adherence.
• Provide oversight, mentorship, and guidance to individual mechanical design task leads; assist task leads with tracking and maintaining efficient task performance.
• Maintain and contribute to the section’s lessons learned repository; participate in mechanical system failure investigations as required.
• Support active risk management for technical, cost, and schedule elements of mechanical tasks; communicate design status, risks, and needs upward to the Section Manager and senior management.
• Support periodic section meetings, especially those related to personnel safety; conduct periodic one-on-one employee check-ins when delegated.
• Review and approve time cards, overtime requests, and travel when delegated; assist with resource requests, interviewing, and hiring processes.
• Document and support personnel evaluation reviews as requested; generate award nominations for personnel when appropriate; help establish, monitor, and track personnel training plans.
• Coordinate with colleagues to resolve cross-organizational issues involving technical challenges, process gaps, or resource limitations; support establishment and oversight of technical correctness across section work.
• Contribute to updates or development of Mechanical Design and Development processes; execute mechanical design, modeling, drawing creation, and development activities.
• Serve as a Mechanical Design Lead on assigned projects; generate ROMs and BOEs for projects and tasks.
• Participate as a member of the Mechanical Design Quick Response Team to support other leads, conduct complex design efforts, or resolve anomalies.
• Create comprehensive design concepts from given requirements; support hardware development tasks across NASA programs as assigned.
• Perform other delegated duties as needed.

Requisition

Qualifications:

This position has been posted at multiple levels. Depending on experience, requirements, and business needs, candidates may be considered at any level for which advertised. Typically requires a bachelor’s degree in Engineering with 5–10 years of related experience. Master’s degree preferred. Licenses/certifications may be required. Experience with ASME Y14.5 and ASME Y14.100; tolerance stack‑up analysis; mechanism design, electronics packaging, and cabling;

project management; and the ability to support management activities for a section of ~40 personnel.

Additional Experience/Preferences: Familiarity with NASA WI EA‑023, JSC PD 7120 (Class 1E), flight hardware certification, and related processes; strong communication and organizational skills; ability to work collaboratively with senior managers; experience planning and prioritizing work; proficiency in MS Project, Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Outlook.

Health, dental, and vision insurance; paid time off and holidays; retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching); educational reimbursement; parental leave; employee stock purchase plan; tax-saving options; disability and life insurance; and pet insurance.

Note:

Benefits may vary by employment type, location, and agreements. Some positions may be governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) or other contracts with different provisions.

Amentum is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Proof of U.S. Citizenship or U.S. Permanent Residency may be required. A background investigation may be necessary. See the company’s ethics and compliance information for more details.

Original Posting: 07/16/2026 - Until Filled. Amentum reserves the right to hire at any level for which the position is advertised. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the employment process, contact us.