Mechanical Engineering Design Associate Active Clearance Required

We have an opening for a Mechanical Engineering Design Associate to support projects for a wide variety of customers and projects including Physical and Life Sciences (PLS) Strategic Deterrence (SD) Global Security (GS) accelerator technologies high-energy physics Energy and others. This position will require drafting and design support for mechanical apparatus equipment assemblies components facilities utilities and systems. Because of the vast and varying types of work we are involved with this position will require the Eng. Design Associate to have the ability to be flexible working with various groups/projects that require design assistance. This position is in the National Security Engineering Division (NSED) with the Engineering Directorate.

This position requires full-time on-site presence due to the nature of the work.

This position will be filled at either level based on knowledge and related experience as assessed by the hiring team. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if hired at the higher level.

You will

• Provide innovative conceptual engineering design and development designs/proposals by preparing or directing others to generate initial addition to other various mechanical applications that address requirements and constraints.
• Direct the design of apparatus equipment assemblies facilities utilities and systems by interpreting and translating design concepts and layouts for the solution of complex and variable technical problems.
• Check drawings (form fit and function) rigorously against all applicable standards specifications and policies for completeness clarity and dimensional accuracy; perform tolerance analysis and stack-ups; Provide feedback and recommendations of drawing and design improvements.
• Interrogate assemblies/models validating design layouts and drawing documentation using PTC Creo 10 systems in adherence to LLNL drafting standards CAD modeling practices PLM requirements specifications and program requirements and standards.
• Collaborate with Project Management/Scientific staff and the Design team to provide timely interpretation and analysis of comprehensive design staff metrics; monitor teams performance to ensure programmatic milestones and deliverables are met.
• Maintain and develop professional relationships with staff and program management to ensure timely cost-effective execution of supportive design/drafting services; participate in mentoring opportunities with team members by coaching early career staff and learning from experienced team members.
• Lead Designers/Drafters through the various phases of the design/drafting/archival process as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities at the 339.2 level

• Provide highly advanced technical and related Lead expertise in the areas of applied engineering technology including planning design fabrication project support testing and evaluation where the qualitative and quantitative complexity of the project assignment demands original and innovative problem solutions.
• Provide division and programmatic representation at meetings briefings and other activities both internal and external to the Laboratory.
• Solve highly complex technical problems with minimal instruction or direction.

Qualifications :

• This position requires an active Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance or active Top Secret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency at the time of hire.
•  Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering Mechanical Engineering Design or equivalent combination of education and related experience.
• Significant experience in mechanical design checking.
• Significant experience with engineering hardware design fabrication assembly techniques materials testing processes and manufacturing methods.
• Advanced knowledge of Creo CAD and PLM PTC Windchill database management software.
• Advanced knowledge of the standards procedures and techniques related to drafting and/or advanced knowledge of ASME Y14.5M Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing Standard.
• Advanced understanding of function fabrication processes and packaging of mechanical hardware and/or electronic systems.
• Experience identifying design deficiencies and recommending revisions in design layout to responsible engineers or designers.
• Advanced written verbal and feedback communication and presentation skills.

Additional qualifications at the 339.2 level 

• Extensive experience with Engineering Hardware design.
• Highly advanced communication facilitation and collaboration skills necessary to effectively present explain and advise sponsors management and collaborators.
• Ability to mentor others in specific on the job training with advanced technical skills specific to hardware design.

Qualifications We Desire

• Knowledge of LLNL drafting procurement and fabrication process.

Pay Range

$125310 - $185640 Annually 

$125310 - $153444 Annually for the 334.1 level
$151620 - $185640 Annually for the 339.2 level

This is the lowest to highest salary we in good faith believe we would pay for this role at the time of this posting.  An employees position within the salary range will be based on several factors including but not limited to specific competencies relevant education qualifications certifications experience skills seniority geographic location performance and business or organizational needs.

Additional Information :

#LI-Hybrid

Position Information

This is a Career Indefinite position open to Lab employees and external candidates.

Why Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory

• Included in 2026 Best Places to Work by Glassdoor!
• Flexible Benefits Package
• 401(k)
• Relocation Assistance
• Education Reimbursement Program
• Flexible schedules (*depending on project needs)
• Our values - visit  Clearance

  This position requires an active Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance or active Top Secret clearance issued by another U.S. government agency at time of hire. 

  Pre-Employment Drug Test

  External applicant(s) selected for this position must pass a post-offer pre-employment drug test. This includes testing for use of marijuana as Federal Law applies to us as a Federal Contractor.

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  Remote Work :

  No

  
  

  Employment Type :

  Full-time