Mechanical Engineer - 1460

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions... that work.

SARA's Artificial Perception & Threat Awareness (APTA) division in Cypress, CA is looking for an exceptionally talented, motivated, and creative Mechanical Engineer to support projects that address drone autonomy and safety, RF and acoustic sensors on moving platforms, and directed energy (RF or laser) diagnostic systems. As part of APTA, you will contribute across the entire program lifecycle, supporting activities in initial research and development (R&D), product prototyping, field testing, and low-rate production. Working in small R&D and/or product development teams, you will help bring ideas and theories to practice and then to physical reality.

This is a hands-on job that will have you in the lab, workshop, or field as much as you are on the computer. You will perform experiments and analyses to evaluate potential solutions, design and build prototype hardware to demonstrate feasibility in practice, and then design, fabricate, assemble, integrate, and test prototype or low-rate production systems in relevant operational environments. You will have the opportunity to grow and learn with other talented engineers, software developers, physicists, and technicians on varied programs supporting government agencies, their contractors, and commercial entities. You will have the freedom to exercise your initiative, adaptability, drive, and of course, engineering skills in a fast-paced, highly technical environment.

Core Responsibilities:

• Performing proof-of-concept analysis and/or experiments
• Designing prototype and production hardware
• Supporting and leading field tests
• Supporting and leading qualification testing (e.g. environmental or functional)
• Documenting and reporting results of analysis, design, or test activities

Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree in mechanical engineering
• 2 - 10 years of mechanical engineering or relevant experience
• Experience with SolidWorks or other CAD software
• Physical ability to assemble and manipulate small electronic and mechanical assemblies, as appropriate
• Physical ability to work with laboratory and test equipment, as appropriate
• Proficient written and verbal communication skills
• Experience with Microsoft Office tool suite
• U.S. Citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience designing and fabricating parts and assemblies using various materials (plastics, metals, composites) and manufacturing processes (additive manufacturing, machining, sheet metal, etc.)
• Ability to work autonomously combined with excellent problem-solving skills to effectively research answers to conceptual questions utilizing internal and external resources
• Excellent time management skills; ability to thrive in a deadline-driven environment juggling multiple priorities and projects
• Experience with OrCAD or similar electronic design tool
• MATLAB experience
• Conversant in some of the following subjects: Mechanical design, Electrical and Electronic design & operation, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Computer Science, Signal Processing algorithms, Electromagnetic/Radio Frequency/Acoustic phenomenology

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

• Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
• A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
• Tuition & certification reimbursement
• Flexible work schedules
• Discretionary Employee bonuses
• 401(k) match/profit sharing
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range:

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual's particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $80,000 to $120,000 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA's total compensation package for employees. Positions are on-site, unless indicated otherwise.

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.