Principal Mechanical Engineer

Principal Mechanical Engineer

SAIC is seeking a skilled Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our team in Huntsville, AL and provide technical expertise in designing, developing, and implementing complex mechanical systems for a reconfigurable air defense project. This role requires a deep understanding of mechanical engineering principles, a passion for solving challenging technical problems, and the ability to contribute in a cross functional team environment.

The ideal candidate will bring 10–15 years of professional experience, advanced engineering knowledge, and a proven ability to design, analyze, and optimize mechanical systems. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of a fast-paced, high-impact project.

• Mechanical Design and Analysis:
  • Design and develop complex mechanical systems and components.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (Electrical, Software, and Systems Engineers) to ensure the mechanical design meets the performance, reliability, and environmental requirements.
  • Perform engineering calculations as applicable and other simulations to optimize designs.
• System Integration and Prototyping:
  • Assist with the integration of mechanical systems into larger hardware and software systems to ensure seamless functionality and compliance with program requirements.
  • Assist with prototyping, testing, and validation of mechanical designs to ensure performance meets required specifications.
• Compliance and Standards:
  • Ensure designs comply with industry and government standards (i.e. MIL-STD) and other relevant specifications.
  • Prepare technical data, presentations, and reports for formal design reviews.
• Collaboration and Project Support:
  • Interface with multidisciplinary teams, including electrical, software, and systems engineers, to achieve system-level objectives.
  • Collaborate with program managers, suppliers, and customers to ensure project alignment with objectives and deliverables.
• Documentation and Reporting:
  • Develop detailed design documentation, including models and drawings, and technical manuals.
  • Provide input on project reports and presentations to share progress, risks, and recommendations with stakeholders.
• Technical Leadership and Mentorship:
  • Provide technical direction and mentorship to junior engineers and project teams, ensuring high-quality work and fostering professional growth.
  • Engage in technical discussions with stakeholders and represent SAIC at design reviews and customer meetings.

Education Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from an accredited institution and nine (9) years of experience in mechanical design, analysis, and testing, with a focus on mission-critical or complex systems. Six (6) years’ additional experience can be considered in lieu of degree (per contract vehicle).

Clearance Requirements

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance; U.S. Citizenship is required.

Required Qualifications

• 10–15 years of experience in mechanical design, analysis, and testing, with a focus on mission-critical or complex systems.
• Proficiency in 3D CAD tools such as Solid Works or similar platforms.
• Expertise in material selection, structural design, and dynamics analysis.
• Knowledge of industry standards and regulatory codes (i.e. MIL-STD).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills for technical documentation, presentations, and collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications

• Active Secret clearance or higher.
• Hands-on experience with full lifecycle mechanical system development, from concept to deployment.
• Familiarity with thermal management systems, heat exchangers, or energy-efficient system designs.
• Experience with additive manufacturing and emerging fabrication technologies.

Overview

SAIC accepts applications on an ongoing basis and there is no deadline. SAIC® is a premier mission integrator focused on advancing the power of technology and innovation to serve and protect our world. Our robust portfolio of offerings across the defense, space, intelligence, and civilian markets includes secure high-end solutions in mission IT, enterprise IT, engineering services, and professional services. We integrate emerging technology, rapidly and securely, into mission critical operations that modernize and enable critical national imperatives.

We are approximately 23,000 strong; driven by mission, united by purpose, and inspired by opportunities. SAIC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, SAIC has annual revenues of approximately $7.3 billion. For more information, visit  For ongoing news, please visit our newsroom.