Mechanical Engineer with Security Clearance
The Mechanical Engineer at Confidential Client supports the design, development, and testing of mission-critical defense products including airborne systems and avionics. This hands-on role involves 3D modeling, hardware integration, and collaboration with cross-functional teams to deliver innovative solutions for Department of Defense customers. The position requires a US citizen able to work onsite in Indianapolis and maintain a DoD Secret clearance.
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 (with ability to obtain DoD clearance) to join a hands‑on Hardware Engineering team in Indianapolis, IN. You will design, develop, and test mechanical components and assemblies for mission‑critical systems supporting Department of Defense programs and other defense customers.
Key responsibilities:
- Support product concept, proposal, development, production and qualification testing phases
- Design new products and test hardware; improve existing designs
- Create 3D CAD models and 2D drawings (CREO preferred)
- Work hands‑on with prototypes, integration, and lab/test activities
- Select and integrate COTS components alongside custom hardware
- Research vendors, manufacturers, and subject matter experts to inform design decisions
- Participate in design reviews and technical checkpoints (Peer Review, DFMA, PDR, CDR)
- Collaborate closely with systems, electrical, test, and production engineers
- Document designs, test results, and technical rationale with clear written and verbal communication
Who We’re Looking For
Minimum requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related STEM field
- U.S. Citizen with ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret clearance
- Ability to work onsite at the Indianapolis, IN facility (must be hands‑on with hardware)
- Experience with mechanical component and assembly design, integration, or testing
- Familiarity with 3‑D CAD modeling tools (CREO preferred)
- Strong planning, organization, and time‑management skills
- Self‑starter mindset with the ability to work in a fast‑paced, team environment
- Good verbal and written communication skills
Desired / plus skills:
- 0–2+ years of professional experience (internships count)
- Working knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (ASME Y14.5)
- Experience capturing system requirements and key characteristics
- Experience with or knowledge of:
- Airborne podded systems, armament equipment, avionics, cockpit displays, or radar
- Mobile ground systems or ground vehicle structures
- Custom/COTS electronics (wires, relays, analog electronics)
- Prototyping, agile methods, and human factors considerations
- Manufacturing processes (CNC machining, sheet metal, welding, EDM, additive)
- Aerospace materials, coatings, and data management systems (Windchill preferred)
Compensation & Benefits
- Estimated base pay: $104,075 per year (estimated)
- Healthcare coverage, life/AD&D, and disability benefits
- Retirement plan and wellness programs
- Paid time off, holidays, and leave of absences
- Eligible tuition reimbursement and learning & development resources
- Employee assistance programs
Pay and benefits are subject to change and may be modified consistent with applicable plans and policies.
Location & Work Authorization
- Work location: Indianapolis, IN — this role requires onsite work at the Indianapolis facility.
- Clearance: Must be a U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD Secret clearance.
Why Apply
This is a strong opportunity to join a multidisciplinary engineering team supporting defense customers and international allies. You’ll gain broad exposure to mechanical design, testing, integration, and production while growing your technical skills in a mission‑driven environment.
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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