Lead Mechanical Engineer

Overview

Lead Mechanical Engineer. This position emphasizes leadership, collaboration, and innovation in mechanical design and development, with a focus on meeting rigorous quality, safety, and regulatory standards in SCBA or comparable products.

• Report to the Mechanical Engineering Manager for SCBA and be responsible for the design and development of mechanical components and sub-systems of SCBA.
• Lead other mechanical engineers through all phases of New Product Development, ensuring timely delivery while meeting product cost targets and reliability requirements.
• Collaborate with other engineers, lab technicians, and designers to ensure product performance meets cost, safety, reliability, schedule, and regulatory requirements.
• Contribute in cross-functional teams during new product development, including design reviews, DFMEA’s, and regulatory submissions.
• Isolate root causes and resolve mechanical issues using formal problem-solving techniques when necessary.
• Adopt a hands-on approach to testing, including proof-of-concept, design validation, and regulatory agency approval.
• Provide real-time, transparent communication on project status against overall project timelines to management.

• Bachelor’s degree or higher in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (completed and verified prior to start).
• Ten (10) years of experience or more in Mechanical Design/Development in a private, public, government or military environment.
• Five (5) years of leadership/supervisory experience.

• Experience with precision machined parts, injection-molded parts using high-performance plastics, and other materials such as soft goods used in SCBA.
• Direct experience in the design, analysis, and troubleshooting of pneumatic or hydraulic systems.
• Proficiency with 3D solid modeling tools such as Solid Works, Inventor, or CREO.
• Ten (10) or more years of New Product Design experience in SCBA’s or equivalent products.
• Strong engineering design skills, including experience with design simulation (FEA/CFD/Moldflow), GD&T, and Statistical Analysis.
• Demonstrated passion for new product development within a collaborative environment, meeting validation, documentation, and regulatory requirements.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills for developing business relationships and engaging with people quickly.

• Work location:
  
  On-site model; at least four days a week at the 3M Center in Monroe, NC.
• Travel:
  May include up to 10% domestic/international.
• Relocation:
  May be authorized.
• Must be legally authorized to work in country of employment without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B).

Responsibilities of this position may include access to information, systems, and technologies subject to U.S. Export Control Laws. U.S. Export Control laws and U.S. Government DoD contracts impose restrictions on sharing export-controlled technology with certain non-U.S. persons. 3M will assess candidates’ U.S. person status as part of the process. Employment is subject to compliance with corporate policies, procedures, and security standards.

Safety is a core value at 3M; all employees are expected to contribute to a strong Environmental Health and Safety culture.

Applicable to US Applicants Only:
The expected compensation range for this position is $164,612 - $201,193, which includes base pay plus variable incentive pay, if eligible. Benefits may include Medical, Dental & Vision, HSAs, FSAs, Disability Benefits, Life Insurance, Voluntary Benefits, Paid Absences and Retirement Benefits. See the provided benefits link for details.

Good Faith Posting Date Range 04/24/2026 To 05/24/2026 or until filled.