Mechanical Engineer I (Entry Level) with Security Clearance
The Mechanical Engineer I at Confidential Client is an entry-level role focused on supporting the design, development, evaluation, and in-service engineering of the Navy's Aircraft Launch and Recovery system. The position involves working within a multi-disciplinary team in a rapid development environment, learning systems engineering fundamentals, and contributing to advanced technology capabilities including model-based systems engineering and quality processes. The role requires strong problem-solving skills, collaboration, and offers mentorship opportunities in a defense-focused setting located in Southern Maryland.
About Careertakes
👉 Important disclosure: Careertakes is a third-party recruiting platform supporting this hiring process. If selected, you will be employed directly by our client, Engineering.
Applicants for this role may also receive access to additional matched opportunities through the Careertakes platform.
What You’ll Do
Confidential Client is seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer (Mechanical Engineer I) to join a multi-disciplinary team working on naval aircraft launch and recovery systems. In this hands-on role you will support design, development, verification, and in-service engineering tasks in a rapid development environment. You will receive mentorship from experienced engineers and learn systems engineering fundamentals while contributing to technical deliverables that support national defense programs.
Responsibilities
- Support mechanical design and hardware development for aircraft launch and recovery systems
- Create and update engineering drawings and technical documentation
- Perform CAD modeling and prepare fabrication drawings (SolidWorks experience is a plus)
- Assist with analysis tasks including FEA and thermal or vibration simulations
- Support assembly, test, and certification activities — may include on-site testing and installation
- Troubleshoot hardware issues and propose creative engineering solutions
- Collaborate across disciplines and participate in design reviews and configuration management activities
- Follow quality processes and contribute to model-based systems engineering initiatives
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
- 0–2 years of relevant experience (entry-level)
- Experience with Computer Aided Design (CAD); SolidWorks is a plus
- Ability to develop and interpret engineering drawings (ASME Y14.5 a plus)
- Basic hardware design knowledge for metals and plastics
- Strong attention to detail and ability to stay focused on assigned tasks
- Solid problem‑solving skills and the ability to develop creative solutions
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Good math and physics fundamentals
- Proficient with MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access)
- Team player with a proactive attitude and ability to work in a collaborative environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience with MATLAB and Finite Element Analysis (FEA) tools
- Familiarity with RF hardware (waveguides, couplers, antennas) and RF laboratory instruments (spectrum/network analyzers, signal generators, oscilloscopes)
- Knowledge of mechanical fabrication processes
- Experience with shock, vibration, and dynamic motion simulation and modeling
- Experience with thermal analysis and cooling of electronics
- Familiarity with RedHat Enterprise Linux and Python
- Exposure to model-based systems engineering and quality management for defense programs
Compensation & Benefits
- Full-time salary range (provided by client): $64,926 – $110,374 per year
- Benefits for regular full-time employees (20+ hours/week) may include health, dental, vision, 401(k), disability and life insurance, health savings accounts, paid time off, paid holidays, parental and military leave, employee assistance programs, and other voluntary benefits.
- Salary offers are determined by factors including experience, education, location, and internal equity.
Location & Travel
- Location: Beachville, MD (St. Mary’s County Technology Corridor, near Patuxent River Naval Air Station)
- Position may require travel to support installation, operation verification, testing, and certification activities.
- There is no monetary relocation assistance budgeted. Applicants should currently reside in or be willing to relocate to St. Mary’s County, Maryland or surrounding areas.
Security Clearance
- This role is posted as requiring or supporting work that involves a security clearance. Applicants should indicate current clearance status or eligibility.
- The client may require background checks and clearance adjudication as part of the hiring process.
Equal Opportunity & Hiring Transparency
Careertakes and our client are Equal Opportunity Employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We prohibit discrimination or harassment of any kind. To support a fair and efficient hiring process, AI tools may be used to assist with application review or resume screening. These tools do not replace human decision-making. Final hiring decisions are made by people.
If you have questions about how your data is used, please contact us directly.
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