Mechanical Materials & Process Engineer

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA), Applied Electromagnetics Division (AED) in Lafayette, CO seeks a seasoned Mechanical Materials & Process Engineer. This position is an excellent opportunity to apply extensive design and fabrication expertise to solve difficult problems associated with RF hardware including antennas and support equipment. This is an engineering development position where the candidate will generate drawing packages and solid models, formulate manufacturing processes, instruct internal/external teams of fabricators, and package electrical, mechanical, structural, and thermal components and equipment to support the design, materials, and manufacture of production level hardware. Our products employ a range of components, subassemblies, and subsystems requiring mechanical interfaces/assemblies, composite fabric/epoxy parts, printed circuit boards, and their integration. A candidate experienced in aerospace hardware production and fielding with broad theoretical and hands-on knowledge of components and processes that meet MIL-STD requirements is needed. This position requires a 4-year engineering degree and a security clearance, with 15+ years’ experience a PLUS.

• →Design interfaces, housings, and structures to integrate/support electrical and mechanical components (physical mounts, structural frameworks, fairings, molds, RF, AC/DC power, and cooling equipment enclosures, control/monitor panels, connectors/wiring/cabling).
• →Apply and develop as necessary, manufacturing processes to produce repeatable high-quality parts (machined and shaped metals, epoxy/fabric composites, circuit board population, screen printed specialized inks, wire/cable harnesses).
• →Provide materials selection and integration methods to ensure production of robust hardware that meets demanding environmental conditions (thermal, vibration, shock, moisture, corrosion per MIL-STD requirements).

• Extensive knowledge of acceptable materials and processes needed to meet MIL-STD quality hardware.
• Creative mechanical designer and problem solver with cradle to grave product experience.
• Mechanically inclined, knowledgeable of materials, hands on, and able to not only guide through clear verbal and written communication, but also by working directly with fabricators.
• Must possess a 4-year college degree in mechanical, materials, or manufacturing related engineering.
• Must have, or be able to obtain, a DoD secret level security clearance.

• Fifteen-plus (15+) years of experience in the aerospace/defense industry with a portfolio of successfully fielded products a PLUS
• Direct RF hardware experience with antennas, radomes, circuits, and/or RF/EM materials a PLUS
• Advanced graduate level engineering degree in mechanical, materials, or manufacturing related engineering a PLUS
• Hands on machining, metal working, bonding, soldering, welding, and screen-printing a PLUS
• In depth knowledge of quality management system procedures and operations a PLUS

For best consideration, please apply by January 12, 2027.