Mechanical Engineer II - Research & Testing Position Summary We have a full time opportunity with our client in New Jersey for a Mechanical Engineer II to support research, testing, and development activities within Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) programs. This position applies mechanical engineering principles, system analysis, experimentation, and problem-solving to support research objectives across multiple ARFF focus areas. The Mechanical Engineer II will independently plan and execute research and development activities, including developing test plans, designing experimental setups, implementing instrumentation and data acquisition systems, conducting testing, and analyzing results. This role requires an engineer who is comfortable taking ownership of assignments and delivering complete, accurate work with minimal day-to-day supervision. The position includes hands-on work in both laboratory and field environments. Candidates should be comfortable working outdoors, around controlled fire-testing environments, and while wearing required personal protective equipment (PPE). Previous firefighting experience is not required but is strongly encouraged. Must have eligibility and willingness to obtain and maintain a Public Trust Clearance. Key Responsibilities Provide mechanical engineering expertise and technical analysis in support of ARFF research, testing, and operational activities. Plan, design, and execute experiments involving fire testing, thermal systems, fluid flow, and mechanical systems. Develop detailed test plans, engineering drawings, instrumentation layouts, and data acquisition systems. Evaluate mechanical, thermal, fluid, and structural systems using appropriate engineering tools, calculations, and analytical methods. Perform data collection, reduction, validation, and analysis to support research findings and technical conclusions. Develop project cost estimates, schedules, risk assessments, and logistics plans for assigned research and testing activities. Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical issues involving test setups, instrumentation, equipment, and facility systems. Support the fabrication, installation, integration, and validation of test articles, instrumentation, and experimental systems. Independently organize and manage project activities to ensure accurate and timely completion of deliverables. Prepare technical reports, research summaries, test documentation, and other formal deliverables for internal and FAA stakeholders. Develop and deliver technical presentations to engineering teams, management, and government clients. Maintain compliance with applicable safety policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements during laboratory and field activities. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related engineering discipline. Professional experience applying mechanical engineering principles to testing, research, system analysis, or experimental development. Experience developing and executing engineering test plans and experimental setups. Knowledge of mechanical systems, thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and/or structural principles. Experience with instrumentation, sensors, data acquisition systems, and engineering data analysis. Ability to interpret and/or develop engineering drawings and technical documentation. Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills. Ability to independently manage assignments and deliver projects with minimal day-to-day supervision. Strong technical writing and communication skills, including the ability to communicate findings to technical and non-technical stakeholders. Ability and willingness to work in outdoor and controlled fire-testing environments while utilizing required PPE. Occasional travel (e.g., 2-3 times per year) may be required. Eligibility and willingness to obtain and maintain a Public Trust Clearance. Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting research and development (R&D), experimental testing, fire testing, or large-scale engineering test programs. Experience with thermal testing, fluid systems, combustion, fire dynamics, or related engineering applications. Experience designing or configuring instrumentation and data acquisition systems. Experience supporting government, aviation, FAA, or safety-related research programs. Hands-on experience with fabrication, installation, or validation of experimental equipment and test systems. Firefighting, ARFF, or fire-service experience is strongly encouraged but not required.

Pay:

$79,073.52 - $101,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Dental insurance Health insurance Life insurance Paid time off Vision insurance

Work Location:

Hybrid remote in Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234