Demo

Marine Systems Engineer

Cardinal Engineering LLC
Washington, DC Full Time
POSTED ON 8/20/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 12/15/2026

We are expanding our team to support engineering services, design, development, and qualification of next-generation Surface Ship Energy Storage Systems. This initiative will bridge the gap between early-stage prototyping and naval deployment, guiding power distribution cabinets through MIL-DTL-901E shock qualification. We are seeking multiple positions for this support team including a Lead Engineer to steer the programs electrical architecture, a Structural Engineer to head the qualification strategy and motivated Junior Engineers to support the project. Roles and responsibilities will be tailored based on candidate experience.


The position expectations will include:

  • Collaborating with Navy stakeholders to identify shipboard applications and establish structural/environmental shock design constraints
  • Conducting Failure Modes and Effects Analyses (FMEA) to identify technical gaps on power cabinets and electronic components to isolate survivability risks.
  • Coordinating, planning and overseeing component shock testing in accordance with Navy Shock requirements, MIL-DTL-901E, along with other forms of environmental qualification testing (EQT)
  • Implementing Model-Based Systems Engineering methodologies to map requirements, track system architecture, and manage verification data throughout the project lifecycle.
  • Working closely with defense customers to provide status reports and programmatic artifacts
  • Documenting design decisions in technical memorandums and reports
  • Work with other engineers to conduct Modeling and Simulation (Matlab, Finite Element Analysis, power system modeling) as required


Desired background:

Lead Electrical Engineer

  • 5 years of relevant engineering experience in naval architecture, marine engineering, or electrical/mechanical systems with Engineering degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace, Mechatronics or Computer Engineering. Master’s degree preferred.
  • Deep technical knowledge of high-power distribution systems, auxiliary mechanical and electrical component cabinets, and large format battery energy storage systems. Working experience with 500-1000VDC lithium battery-based systems and solid-state power conversion equipment a plus. 
  • Strong proficiency in defining, measuring, and analyzing critical electrical characteristics in fielded systems—including transient electrical performance, circuit protection and coordination, power quality analysis, and thermal behavior.
  • Proven ability to interface directly with Navy Technical Area Experts, program managers, and equipment vendors to align technical criteria.
  • Anticipated salary range is between $100,000 - $175,000 commensurate with year and applicability of experience

Lead Shock & Structural Survivability Engineer

  • Experience: 6 years of relevant engineering experience in mechanical engineering, structural dynamics, or naval architecture with Engineering degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace, Mechatronics or Computer Engineering.
  • Experience with EQT, with emphasis on MIL-DTL-901E shock qualification processes and T9070-AJ-DPC-120/3010 shock design criteria for surface ships.
  • Strong expertise in conducting Dynamic Design Analysis Method (DDAM) calculations, finite element analysis (FEA), and shock isolation design for shipboard equipment cabinets.
  • Proven history of defining criteria for physical hardware testing (light/medium weight shock machines) and managing large-scale environmental testing (barge tests), including designing test fixtures.
  • Background or foundational understanding of electrical engineering/power systems to better evaluate the impact of shock on electrical enclosure components a plus
  • Anticipated salary range is between $100,000 - $175,000 commensurate with year and applicability of experience

Junior / Associate Systems Engineer

  • Experience: 0–5 years of experience with Department of War programs with Engineering degree in Electrical, Mechanical, Aerospace, Mechatronics or Computer Engineering.
  • Strong foundational understanding of structural mechanics, dynamics, or electrical systems. Prior exposure to military standard (MIL-STD) testing is preferred.
  • Familiarity with CAD software, MATLAB
  • Eager to learn complex naval shock standards, highly organized, and possess strong technical writing skills to assist with reports and test procedures.
  • Anticipated salary range is between $85,000 - $125,000 commensurate with year and applicability of experience

Additional Detail

·      Location: Hybrid work environment with potential for full-time telework

·      Travel: Occasional travel will be required to visit contractor, testing or government facilities (<10%)

·      Clearance: Active security clearance required.

Employee Benefits

Cardinal Engineering is an equal opportunity employer and offers industry-leading benefits, including:

  • Generous 401k company contribution
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Flexible spending and dependent care accounts
  • Short- and long-term disability
  • Life insurance plans for your family

Salary : $85,000 - $125,000

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