Mechanical Design Engineer Lead
Location: Huntsville, AL
Job Type: Full-Time
Company: Invariant Corporation
Category: Corporate Office
Job Description Apply Now
Mechanical Design Engineer Lead
Invariant Corporation is seeking a highly skilled Mechanical Design Engineer Lead to play a pivotal role in the development and advancement of mechanical systems for next-generation weapon system components, supporting prominent programs and internal research and development projects. As a Mechanical Design Engineer Lead, you will be responsible for guiding the end-to-end design process, ensuring the highest standards of quality and compliance for defense-related applications. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced mechanical design professional to lead cross-functional teams and be at the forefront of innovation in the defense sector.
Located in Alabama, joining Invariant Corporation as a Mechanical Design Engineer Lead means becoming part of a collaborative engineering environment that is focused on excellence, compliance, and continuous improvement. Working with us provides a unique opportunity to contribute to projects that make a significant impact while enjoying a supportive workplace culture.
Mechanical Design Engineer Lead - SummaryThe Mechanical Design Engineer Lead at Invariant Corporation is responsible for overseeing the design, analysis, and documentation of mechanical components and subsystems for advanced defense applications. This role encompasses leadership in design innovation, technical drawing creation, and close collaboration with interdisciplinary teams. The position requires in-depth knowledge of CAD software, configuration management, and industry standards such as ASME Y14 and MIL-STD-810. The ideal candidate is committed to upholding rigorous regulatory and quality standards while driving new technology integration across mechanical systems.
Duties & Responsibilities- Leading the design and development of complex mechanical subsystems for weapon platforms, including structures, housings, actuators, and mechanisms.
- Creating detailed 3D models and 2D drawings with CAD tools such as SolidWorks, ensuring high precision and adherence to project specifications.
- Innovating in mechanical design and technology insertion to advance capabilities across the product portfolio.
- Developing mechanical systems for Department of Defense (DoD) projects, ensuring robust and reliable performance.
- Generating and maintaining comprehensive engineering documentation, including drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), and technical design reports.
- Collaborating with engineering, manufacturing, and program management teams to guarantee design feasibility and regulatory compliance.
- Applying Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T) standards to technical drawings for accuracy and consistency.
- Supporting prototype development, rigorous testing, and design validation activities to ensure optimal functionality.
- Ensuring designs meet stringent safety and quality requirements according to ASME Y14 and MIL-STD protocols.
- Participating actively in design reviews, incorporating feedback and managing documentation revisions as needed.
- Overseeing configuration control and managing revision history to ensure accuracy and traceability of engineering changes.
- Guiding material selection and manufacturing process decisions, with particular attention to extreme environments involving high shock, vibration, and thermal challenges.
- Conducting root cause investigations of hardware failures, developing corrective actions, and applying lessons learned across programs.
- Collaborating with systems engineering, integration and test, and manufacturing teams to ensure all technical requirements are achieved and products are production-ready.
- Competitive salary based on experience and qualifications.
- Comprehensive benefits package including health, dental, and vision coverage.
- Retirement plan options and paid time off.
- Supportive work environment dedicated to employee growth and development.
- Opportunities for professional advancement and continuing education.
- Drug-free workplace and Equal Opportunity Employer policies.
- Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Design, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline.
- Minimum of 12 years of experience in mechanical design, ideally within defense, government contracting, or aerospace industries.
- Significant experience with GD&T and adherence to engineering drawing standards.
- Proficiency in SolidWorks CAD for mechanical design and finite element analysis (FEA).
- Strong background in Configuration Management (CM).
- Active Secret Clearance required.
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship required for positions involving Security Clearance.
- Current, valid passport.
- Experience with AS9100 quality process implementation.
- Familiarity with MIL-STD requirements and defense industry compliance standards.
- Previous experience as a Product Lifecycle Manager (PLM) administrator.
- Knowledge of a broad range of fabrication methods, including machining, sheet metal, Design for Manufacturability (DFM), and additive manufacturing.
- Outstanding problem-solving abilities and meticulous attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively in interdisciplinary teams.
- Work environment includes office, laboratory, shop, and field settings.
- Must be able to sit for extended periods and participate in meetings with peers and management.
- Occasional lifting and moving of objects up to 50 lbs required.
- Ability to use stairs to access different floors and buildings at company and customer sites during travel.
- This position is expected to be performed only in the state of Alabama.
- Invariant Corporation is committed to giving good faith consideration to Alabama residents for employment at the Project, pursuant to Code of Alabama § 40-18-370.
- Equal Opportunity Employer: All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
- Invariant is a drug-free workplace.
If you are a driven mechanical design professional seeking to lead impactful projects in the defense industry, we invite you to apply for the Mechanical Design Engineer Lead position at Invariant Corporation. Click the application button to embark on a rewarding career with us.