Lead, Mechanical Engineer (On-site)

HEPCO is seeking a Lead, Mechanical Engineer for a permanent-placement opportunity in Sterling, Virginia. This role requires a technically strong mechanical engineering leader who can own major hardware components and guide the development of advanced mechanical systems from early concept through integration, demonstration, and production support.

The position combines design leadership with hands-on engineering work in a laboratory-based hardware environment. The selected candidate will contribute directly to design execution while coordinating reviews, technical decisions, and cross-functional engineering activities.

• Lead the design and development of complex mechanical assemblies, mechanisms, and electromechanical subsystems.
• Translate customer and system requirements into practical mechanical design solutions.
• Generate concepts, perform trade studies, and drive detailed design decisions based on performance, manufacturability, and reliability.
• Produce and review engineering drawings, CAD models, and technical data packages.
• Develop prototypes and support mechanical assembly, integration, testing, and troubleshooting.
• Prepare and execute subsystem test plans, procedures, and evaluations.
• Participate in and lead technical reviews, including Preliminary Design Reviews, Critical Design Reviews, and design-change activities.
• Mentor designers and technicians and communicate technical progress to internal leadership and customers.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field and nine years of relevant experience; graduate degree and seven years of relevant experience; or equivalent experience in lieu of a degree.
• Strong experience in mechanical hardware design, development, and testing for aerospace, defense, or similarly complex products.
• Proficiency with Creo or similar 3D CAD software.
• Working knowledge of GD&T and ASME Y14.5 standards.
• Experience supporting design reviews, development milestones, and hardware maturation activities.
• Ability to work in a hands-on laboratory or development setting.
• Active Top Secret or TS/SCI clearance, or a clearance held within the last two years, with the ability to obtain a favorable polygraph.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with precision mechanisms, mechatronics, electronics packaging, actuators, custom gear trains, and SWaP-sensitive designs.
• Familiarity with additive manufacturing, DFM/DFA, materials testing, and environmental design considerations.
• Experience supporting defense, intelligence, electro-optical, or mission systems applications.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, and supplemental health coverage.
• Health and disability insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts and an Employee Assistance Program.
• Retirement savings plan with company 401(k) match.
• Paid time off and company-paid holidays.
• Paid parental leave and family-building support.
  
  

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All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class.