Mechanical Test Engineer

Defense Technologies Engineering Division (DTED) has multiple openings for Mechanical Test Engineers to support the Environmental & Mechanical Test Group. Under supervision you will conduct experimental testing on a variety of projects related to environmental testing modal analysis health monitoring aging studies data acquisition load testing general instrumentation and measurement diagnostics. Work supports multiple program areas including Strategic Deterrence Global Security and the National Ignition Facility. This position will report to a DTED Environmental & Mechanical Test Group Leader.

Depending on your assignment this position may offer a hybrid schedule blending in-person and virtual presence. You may have the flexibility to work from home one or more days per week. 

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

• Design and conduct tests on mechanical andor diagnostic systems analyze results and author reports.
• Conduct experimental modal analyses and analyze results in concert with modeling and simulation.
• Operate test equipment (shaker systems shock machines thermal chambers etc.) using fundamental knowledge of best test and measurement practices.
• Prepare supporting safety and engineering documentation and participate in formal engineering design reviews.
• Perform supporting engineering calculations for structural thermal and diagnostic systems.
• Participate in the detailed design process component part fabrication and unit assembly.
• Provide solutions to problems of limited complexity that require the evaluation of readily identifiable factors using standard techniques and methodologies.
• Work as a member of a project team in a dynamic environment.
• Interface with peers both internal and external to the organization to plan and execute testing.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Additional job responsibilities at the SES.2 level 

• Independently define engineering requirements for structural thermal fluidic and diagnostic systems within assigned project scope.
• Generate detailed plans schedules and budgets for project activities.
• Perform independent technical tasks and projects and support research efforts and select methods techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results based on analysis of multiple largely identifiable factors.

Qualifications :

• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. DOE Q-level security clearance which requires U.S. Citizenship.
• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent Combination of education and experience.
• Fundamental knowledge of testing practices and data processing.
• Fundamental knowledge and/or experience in one or more of the following areas: vibration and shock measurements experimental modal and dynamic analysis general instrumentation (i.e. accelerometers strain gages thermo-couples resistance thermal detectors (RTDs) capacitance gages laser vibrometers pressure sensors etc.) general data acquisition theory (Nyquist criterion anti-aliasing etc.).
• Experience using MatLab or other computer programming codes for data manipulation and analysis.
• Fundamental knowledge of engineering hardware design and fabrication.
• Effective communication skills with proven ability to present technical concepts and ideas in a clear and coherent manner both verbal and written for presentation and collaboration with other technical staff members.

Additional qualifications at the SES.2 level 

• Comprehensive knowledge of measurement sensors and an understanding of when to use specific sensors for certain applications
• Ability to use independent judgment in determining methods techniques and evaluation criteria.
• Comprehensive verbal and written communication skills necessary to effectively collaborate in a team environment and present and explain technical information.

Qualifications We Desire

• Masters (MS) or PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Pay Range

$121830 - $185544 Annually
$121830 - $154500 Annually for the SES.1 level
$146340 - $185544 Annually for the SES.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; pay will not be below any applicable local minimum wage. 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 a Department of Energy (DOE) Q-level clearance.  If you are selected we will initiate a Federal background investigation to determine if you meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information or matter. Also all L or Q cleared employees are subject to random drug testing.  Q-level clearance requires U.S. citizenship. 

  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