Principal Mechanical Engineer

Company: Saab
Location: Quincy
Posted on: April 3, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description: Saab Inc., Autonomous and Undersea Systems division is seeking an innovative and experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to guide others on technical teams in capturing, understanding, and implementing product design requirements for autonomous Unmanned Surface/Underwater Vehicles (aUSVs/aUUVs, AUVs) and Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs). This position will sit in our Quincy, MA or Cranston, RI facilities. Responsibilities: Ability to serve as the lead contributor for the research and development of new mechanical design methodologies Provide strategic direction for mechanical systems and present technical concepts regarding product design and performance. Contribute to the company and the industry by advancing the level of knowledge within that discipline Interface with Systems, Electrical, Quality and Safety/Human Factors as well as other business functions to develop/define/implement customer requirements. Provide leadership for the research and development of new mechanical components and electromechanical assemblies. Provide leadership and execute functional analysis, evaluation, and optimization of product designs. Understand customer base needs for business development and program execution. Develop work package labor estimates (BOEs) and status reports. Provide mentoring and broad technical guidance/coaching (including lessons learned), viewed as an expert in field. Present technical results and content to customers, tailored to the customer audience. Provide technical leadership to key subcontractors and suppliers. Maintain size, weight, and power budgets through development phases. Provide technical leadership in manufacturing related matters. Perform and oversee design verification efforts. Lead cost/benefit trade-off analysis and feasibility studies. Lead mechanical related failure analysis of hardware. Provide cost-effective inputs for planning, scheduling and estimating work Lead and verify adherence to the company’s quality system and processes. Lead and verify adherence to intellectual property protection and security procedures. Manage system level design considerations and trade-offs where many engineering disciplines are concerned. Provide technical vision to incorporate best practices into the company’s processes, tools, and methodologies to improve efficiency and effectiveness. Shape and contribute to business area objectives through development of technology plans. Typical Salary Range: Cranston, RI: $165,500 - $215,100 Quincy, MA: $180,600 - $234,700 The compensation range provided is a general guideline. When extending an offer, Saab, Inc. considers factors including (but not limited to) the role and associated responsibilities, location, and market and business considerations, as well as the candidate's work experience, key skills, and education/training. Skills and Experience: Bachelor of Science, Master of Science or PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering preferred. Minimum 20 years of experience in mechanical design preferred. Proficient in the use of industry standard mechanical engineering design tools (SolidWorks, Solid Edge, Creo, ANSYS, etc.) Significant product development background, demonstrating a strong engineering aptitude and good problem-solving skills with underwater vehicles and devices. Demonstrated leadership to resolve issues during design, development and execution of mechanical engineering activities. Strong interpersonal and group communication skills. Proficiency with MS Office software applications. Strong Earned Value (EV) skills, including Cost Account Manager (CAM) activities. Candidate must be able to work with limited/general direction. Must hold or be able to obtain U.S. DoD SECRET security clearance. Ability to travel up to 25%, both international and domestic. Able to lead a team of mechanical engineers to develop and document mechanical components and assemblies. Proficient at understanding and driving requirements traceability in a model-based systems engineering environment. Desired Experience and Skills: Prior DoD industry experience Experience packaging electronics and sensors with respect to CB/CG separation and weight Experience with SolidWorks, MS Project and modeling of mechanical systems Familiarity with Mil Standards, ruggedized equipment design and environmental test requirements Knowledge of materials and corrosion control. Experience with ANSI Y14.5 Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T), ANSI Y14.100 Engineering Drawing Practices Demonstrated performance and expertise in the elements of mechanical design, such as analysis and implementation of requirements, developing design concepts, evaluating designs, technical and design reviews. Citizenship Requirements: Must be a U.S. citizen. Applicants selected may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information. Drug-Free Workplaces: Saab is a federal government contractor and adheres to policies and programs necessary for sustaining drug-free workplaces. As a condition of employment, candidates will be required to pass a pre-employment drug screen. Benefits: Saab provides an excellent working environment offering professional growth opportunities, competitive wages, work-life balance, a business casual atmosphere and comprehensive benefits. Highlights include: Medical, vision, and dental insurance for employees and dependents Generous paid time off, including 8 designated holidays 401(k) with employer contributions Tuition assistance and student loan assistance Wellness and employee assistance resources Employee stock purchase opportunities Short-term and long-term disability coverage About Us: Saab is a leading defense and security company with an enduring purpose, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. In the U.S., Saab delivers advanced technology and systems, supporting the U.S. Armed Forces and the Federal Aviation Administration, as well as international and commercial partners. Headquartered in Syracuse, New York, the company has business units and local employees in ten U.S. locations. Saab is a company where we see diversity as an asset and offer unlimited opportunities for advancing in your career. We are also a company that respects each person’s needs and encourage employees to lead a balanced, rewarding life beyond work. Saab values diversity and is an Affirmative Action employer for protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Saab is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer, all qualified individuals are encouraged to apply and will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, veteran, disability status, or any other federal, state, or locally protected category.

Keywords: Saab, Nantucket , Principal Mechanical Engineer, Engineering , Quincy, Massachusetts