Mechanical Engineer

Our Directed Energy team in Albuquerque, NM, is seeking an entry-level Mechanical Engineer to support the research, design, development, fabrication, and testing of innovative hardware and systems for customers and Leidos.

This is an exciting opportunity for a recent engineering graduate to gain hands-on experience developing next-generation technologies in a research and development environment on Kirtland Air Force Base and Leidos facilities.

The successful candidate will work alongside experienced engineers, scientists, technicians, and fabricators to transform engineering concepts into functional hardware supporting advanced directed energy technologies, including high-power microwave (HPM), RF, electromagnetic, and pulsed-power systems.

The position emphasizes mechanical and electromechanical design, 3D CAD modeling, engineering drawings, prototype development, and hands-on laboratory testing. The successful candidate will receive technical guidance and mentorship while developing practical engineering skills and contributing to multidisciplinary hardware development projects.

Primary Responsibilities Support the design and development of mechanical electrical, and electromechanical components and assemblies for experimental hardware and systems, including integration of electrical and electronic hardware.. Create 3D CAD models, assemblies, engineering drawings, and preliminary design layouts using SolidWorks or similar CAD software.

Assist with the development of engineering concepts and detailed designs, including material selection, dimensional tolerances, mechanical interfaces, and manufacturing considerations. Perform basic engineering calculations and analyses to support design decisions, including structural, thermal, and mechanical evaluations.

Support the design, fabrication, assembly, integration, and testing of prototype hardware for pulsed-power, high-power microwave, and related electromagnetic systems. Work closely with engineers, machinists, fabricators, and technicians to resolve design, manufacturing, and assembly challenges.

Assist with laboratory testing, experimental setup, troubleshooting, data collection, and performance evaluation of prototype hardware. Support the development and integration of pulsed-power components, high-voltage assemblies, diagnostic equipment, and related experimental systems. Review test results and collaborate with senior engineers to identify design improvements and implement hardware modifications.

Prepare and maintain engineering documentation, including design drawings, technical reports, test procedures, and design revisions. Participate in multidisciplinary design reviews and technical discussions to support project objectives. Follow established engineering procedures, laboratory safety practices, and quality requirements while completing assigned tasks under the guidance of senior engineers.

Basic Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electromechanical Engineering, or a closely related engineering discipline with less than 2 years of relevant experience. Foundational understanding of engineering design principles, mechanical systems, materials, and manufacturing processes.

Familiarity with 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, Inventor, or equivalent tools. Ability to create or interpret basic engineering drawings, schematics, and technical documentation. Basic understanding of engineering analysis, problem-solving, and design methodologies. Interest in hands-on hardware development, fabrication, assembly, and laboratory testing.

Ability to apply engineering fundamentals to solve technical problems under the guidance of experienced engineers. Strong written and verbal communication skills. Ability to collaborate effectively with engineers, scientists, technicians, and manufacturing personnel. Willingness to learn new technical disciplines and work in a multidisciplinary research and development environment. Must be a U.S. citizen.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a DoD Secret security clearance. Preferred Qualifications Experience with SolidWorks, including 3D part modeling, assemblies, and engineering drawings. Familiarity with SolidWorks PDM or other product data management systems for managing CAD files, revisions, and engineering documentation.

Familiarity with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, material selection, and design for manufacturability. Experience with engineering design projects, senior capstone projects, internships, undergraduate research, or other hands-on hardware development activities. Familiarity with machining, welding, additive manufacturing, sheet metal fabrication, or other manufacturing processes.

Exposure to basic structural, thermal, or mechanical analysis using analytical methods or simulation software. Experience assembling, modifying, troubleshooting, or testing mechanical or electromechanical hardware. Familiarity with electrical circuits, instrumentation, oscilloscopes, data acquisition systems, or laboratory test equipment.

Interest in pulsed-power technology, high-voltage systems, electromagnetics, RF, or high-power microwave systems. Experience with MATLAB, Python, LabVIEW, or similar engineering analysis tools. Experience working with multidisciplinary engineering teams on prototype or research and development projects.

Familiarity with vacuum systems, pressure systems, thermal management, or mechanical packaging of electrical equipment. Previous internship or project experience in aerospace, defense, government laboratories, or related technical environments.

Ideal candidate is motivated, hands-on, detail-oriented, and interested in applying engineering fundamentals to real-world hardware challenges in a collaborative research and development environment. NKE If you're looking for comfort, keep scrolling. At Leidos, we outthink, outbuild, and outpace the status quo — because the mission demands it. We're not hiring followers.

We're recruiting the ones who disrupt, provoke, and refuse to fail. Step 10 is ancient history. We're already at step 30 — and moving faster than anyone else dares. Original Posting: November 4, 2026 For U.S.

Positions: While subject to change based on business needs, Leidos reasonably anticipates that this job requisition will remain open for at least 3 days with an anticipated close date of no earlier than 3 days after the original posting date as listed above. Pay Range: Pay Range $57,850.00 - $104,575.00 The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline only and not a guarantee of compensation or salary.

Additional factors considered in extending an offer include (but are not limited to) responsibilities of the job, education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities, as well as internal equity, alignment with market data, applicable bargaining agreement (if any), or other law.