Lead Mechanical Designer - 1702

SARA, Inc. • Full-time • Colorado Springs, CO • $43 - $50 / hour • 7h ago

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technology innovations in support of Commercial & Government organizations. We have expertise in RF, EMP, Pulsed Power, Acoustics and Threat Warning Systems, and we prioritize partnering with our customers to address real-world problems with cost-effective solutions… that work.

The SARA, Inc. High Power Electromagnetics Division (HPEM) is looking for a remarkably talented, motivated, and imaginative Lead Mechanical Designer to support research and development activities and transition innovative technologies to the DoD, DoE, and their contractors in Colorado Springs, CO. The candidate will have the opportunity to grow and learn with talented engineers, physicists, and technicians on long-standing programs and new programs supporting our customers. Our small group will allow the candidate to experience, contribute, and collaborate in a multidisciplinary nature from conception all the way through to operation.

Core Responsibilities:

Prepare 3D models and GD&T input for detailed manufacturing drawings considering design intent and customer feedback
Independently handle moderate to advanced-complexity mechanical design projects
Interact with all levels of engineering staff and outside vendors
Must have knowledge of manufacturing materials and their inherent properties
In-depth understanding of manufacturing processes, to include milling, lathe, waterjet, laser, and typical heavy shop equipment
Researching and analyzing data such as customer design proposals, specifications, and manuals to evaluate the feasibility, cost, and/or maintenance requirements of the product line
Work as part of a cross-functional team to resolve system issues and provide technical recommendations for design modifications to eliminate system malfunctions
Prepare, conduct, and document simulation and mechanical testing to analyze the design, operation, and performance of equipment
Provide advanced technical writing to capture detailed documentation used for presentations

Requirements:

High School diploma or equivalent GED
5 – 7 years of demonstrated experience designing mechanical or electromechanical equipment
Higher education may be considered in lieu of experience
Advanced skills in SolidWorks 3D modeling
Proven time management skills; able to thrive in a deadline-driven environment juggling multiple priorities and projects
Ability to work in a rapid-prototyping environment with agility and openness to change
Must be able to fabricate and concept prototypes quickly using 3D printing, models and other mockup techniques
Ability to provide insight and execution to process improvements
Upbeat, positive, high energy with a “can do” attitude; reacts well under pressure
Willingness to work as part of a team and initiate communication
Extremely reliable and dependable
Ability and willingness to travel to support field testing activities in-state and out-of-state (< 15% time)
Ability to obtain and maintain TS security clearance
US Citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain DoD security clearance
May require moderate physical effort, involving standing, sitting and use of hands while performing duties, carrying or lifting up to 50 pounds
Working environment is indoor, moderately quiet, reasonably clean, well-lighted and well-ventilated; moderate physical hazards may exist

Preferred Qualifications:

7 – 10 years of demonstrated experience designing mechanical or electromechanical equipment
Experience using SolidWorks 3D CAD with PDM or comparable data management system
Experience using SolidWorks Simulation for FEA, thermal analysis
Experience with High Voltage Systems a plus
Familiarity and understanding of electronic components and how they interact
Excellent problem-solving skills to effectively research answers to conceptual questions utilizing internal and external resources
Active TS security clearance

SARA offers a competitive benefits package to include:

Medical, dental, vision, disability and life insurance; and other supplemental programs
A generous PTO program (vacation, sick, holiday)
Tuition & certification reimbursement
Flexible work schedules
Discretionary Employee bonuses
401(k) match/profit sharing
Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)

Pay Range:

Salary at SARA is determined by various factors, including but not limited to location, the individual’s particular combination of education, knowledge, skills, competencies, and experience, as well as contract-specific affordability and organizational requirements. The projected compensation range for this position is $43.50 to $50.50 (annualized USD). The estimate displayed represents the typical salary range for this position and is just one component of SARA’s total compensation package for employees.

Application Deadline: November 5, 2026

SARA is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Related Jobs

Mechanical Engineer - Undersea Systems - 1680

SARA, Inc. • Full-time • Colorado Springs, CO • 3w ago

Manufacturing Engineering

3w ago

Apply

Quality Systems Specialist - 1694

SARA, Inc. • Full-time • Colorado Springs, CO • 1w ago

Manufacturing

1w ago

Apply

Assembly Technician - 1686

SARA, Inc. • Full-time • Colorado Springs, CO • 2w ago

Manufacturing

Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world-class Defense Research and Development enterprise, with a charter to create new and emerging technological innovations in support of Commercial &a...

2w ago

Apply

Industrial Security Specialist - CSSO - 1679

SARA, Inc. • Full-time • Colorado Springs, CO • 3w ago

Manufacturing

3w ago

Apply

Part-Time AI Architect - 1703

SARA, Inc. • Part-time • Colorado Springs, CO • 4h ago

Architecture

4h ago

Apply

Engineering Technician - 1700

SARA, Inc. • Full-time • Colorado Springs, CO • 7h ago

Engineering Construction

7h ago

Apply

Engineering Technician II/III - 1701

SARA, Inc. • Full-time • Colorado Springs, CO • 7h ago

Engineering Construction

7h ago

Apply

Building Services Technician - 1699

SARA, Inc. • Full-time • Colorado Springs, CO • 23h ago

Installation & Maintenance

23h ago

Apply

Simulation Interface Unit (SIU) Operator

Torch Technologies • Full-time • Schriever Air Force Base, CO, US • 2d ago

Torch Technologies Thank you for your interest in employment with Torch Technologies. We are a 100% employee-owned, Certified Great Place To Work and named Best Places to Work in Huntsville/Madison County, headquartered...

2d ago

Apply

STEM Intern - 1696

SARA, Inc. • Part-time • Colorado Springs, CO • 3d ago

Are you looking for a hands-on internship that will engage you and help you grow in your chosen field of study? Would you like to be a part of an organization that is inventing new technologies and maturing them into use...

3d ago

Apply