Junior Mechanical Engineer

Leidos Holding$69K — $125K *
Aerospace & Defense
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Active TS/SCI clearance with the ability to obtain a polygraph.
  • Bachelor's degree and 2+ years of relevant experience, or Master's degree with less than 2 years.
  • Experience in facility analysis and infrastructure vulnerability assessments.
  • Knowledge of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) systems in complex facilities.
  • Ability to conduct large dataset analysis and evaluate visual information for HVAC systems.

Responsibilities

  • Analyze and characterize facility designs in denied-access environments.
  • Evaluate vulnerabilities in facility and infrastructure designs.
  • Develop 3D models and simulations of facility operations.
  • Assess MEP system functionality and integration within facilities.
  • Create comprehensive technical reports and models for stakeholders.
  • Support research and development initiatives within a multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

  • Opportunity to work on critical national security missions.
  • Collaborative work environment with experienced engineers and analysts.
  • Contributions to fast-paced, mission-critical assessments.
  • Engagement in advanced modeling and simulation technologies.
Full Job Description
Mechanical Engineer (TS/SCI Required)

Leidos is seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineer to support critical national security missions in Reston, Virginia. This role focuses on the assessment, reverse engineering, and characterization of complex above-ground and subterranean facilities located in denied-access environments.

The successful candidate will apply mechanical engineering principles to analyze facility designs, spatial layouts, operational workflows, and supporting infrastructure to determine functional capabilities and mission relevance. You will evaluate facility systems, model critical infrastructure, identify vulnerabilities, and contribute technical insights that support complex intelligence and defense initiatives.

This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving challenging problems in situations where complete information is rarely available. The ideal candidate combines curiosity, analytical thinking, and engineering rigor with exceptional attention to detail. Working alongside experienced engineers, analysts, and government personnel, you will contribute to mission-critical assessments in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Primary Responsibilities

Reverse Engineering & Facility Characterization

Analyze and characterize the physical and functional attributes of facility layouts, building architecture, and operational workflows within denied-access environments to determine facility purpose, capability, and operational capacity.


Vulnerability Assessments

Evaluate facility and infrastructure designs to identify security vulnerabilities, single points of failure, operational bottlenecks, and potential mission impacts.


3D Modeling & Simulation

Develop high-fidelity 3D models and conduct engineering simulations to replicate facility operations, workflow efficiencies, and structural or mechanical limitations.


Infrastructure Analysis

Apply multidisciplinary engineering knowledge to assess supporting facility systems, with a primary focus on Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) integration and functionality.


Technical Documentation & Reporting

Translate field-collected data, intelligence information, and engineering assessments into comprehensive technical reports, CAD/BIM products, and simulation-based analyses for Department of Defense stakeholders.


Research & Development

Support customer-approved research and development initiatives independently or as part of a multidisciplinary team to advance analytical methodologies, modeling capabilities, and mission solutions.


Required Qualifications
  • Active and in scope TS/SCI clearance and willingness to obtain a polygraph required. Must be a U.S. Citizen.

  • Working knowledge of engineering principles, theories, concepts, and techniques, with the ability to apply them to technical and mission-focused challenges.

  • Bachelor's degree with 2+ years of relevant experience, or a Master's degree with less than 2 years of relevant experience.

  • Relevant experience includes facility analysis, infrastructure vulnerability assessments, and mechanical engineering within commercial, Department of Defense, or Intelligence Community environments.

  • MEP Systems Knowledge: Understanding of Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) system design, integration, and operational functionality within complex industrial or military facilities, including specialized containment systems, filtration systems, and backup power infrastructure.

  • Ability to identify industrial HVAC equipment, estimate system size and capacity, and assess operational capabilities through visual analysis.

  • Ability to evaluate, organize, and utilize large datasets from diverse sources, including field-collected data, equipment technical manuals, and existing facility models.

  • Experience with 3D modeling, engineering analysis, and physical simulation methodologies.

  • Familiarity with interpreting engineering drawings, facility layouts, blueprints, and intelligence-derived technical data.

  • Ability to make sound technical judgments with incomplete information and clearly communicate assumptions, information gaps, and recommended paths forward.


Preferred Qualifications
  • Two or more years of field experience working with industrial HVAC systems, including air-cooled and water-cooled chillers, condensers, cooling towers, air handlers, heat exchangers, boilers, and related equipment.

  • Working knowledge of air management systems supporting critical environments, including medical laboratories, clean rooms, chemical laboratories, and similar specialized facilities.

  • Hands-on experience with advanced Building Information Modeling (BIM) and engineering simulation tools, including Autodesk Revit, VENTSIM, ETAP, and other industry-standard CAD and modeling platforms.

  • Experience supporting forensic engineering investigations, industrial accident analyses, or Department of Defense facility vulnerability studies.

  • Professional Engineer (PE) license and/or Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

  • Experience identifying mechanical system vulnerabilities and developing effective corrective actions.



Original Posting:
June 19, 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 $69,550.00 - $125,725.00

The Leidos pay range for this job level is a general guideline onlyand 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.

About Leidos Holding

Leidos Holding Careers

Joining Leidos Holding presents an unparalleled opportunity to advance one's career with a leader in innovation and technology. The company offers a plethora of job opportunities aimed at fostering professional growth and development in a diverse and inclusive environment.

Explore Career Opportunities

Leidos Holding is actively seeking skilled professionals who are passionate about leveraging their expertise to drive innovation and leadership in their fields. With a variety of open positions, Leidos Holding provides a platform for individuals to challenge themselves in a dynamic work environment.

Innovation and Professional Growth

At Leidos Holding, innovation is at the core of everything they do. Employees are encouraged to think creatively and push boundaries. The company supports this drive for innovation through comprehensive professional development and diversity training programs that are designed to enhance skills and foster leadership.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Leidos Holding is committed to creating a workplace where diversity is not only recognized but celebrated. With a culture that values and promotes diversity, Leidos Holding ensures that all team members have the opportunity to contribute, learn, and grow.

Internship Programs

For those starting their career, Leidos Holding offers internship programs that provide a robust foundation in the industry. Internships are a great way to develop essential skills, gain valuable work experience, and build professional networks.

Benefits and Culture

Employees at Leidos Holding enjoy a range of benefits designed to support their professional and personal lives. The company culture is built on a foundation of respect and integrity, providing a supportive and collaborative environment where every team member is valued.

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Leidos Holding is hiring! Explore job opportunities that match your skills and interests. Leidos Holding looks for driven, curious, and innovative individuals to join their team. Positions are available across various disciplines and experience levels.

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Networking and Career Advancement

Leidos Holding encourages its employees to engage in networking within the company to discover new opportunities for career advancement. The leadership team at Leidos Holding is dedicated to supporting employees in their career paths with ample opportunities for networking and growth.

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Discover the exciting career opportunities at Leidos Holding today. With a commitment to employee growth, innovation, and diversity, Leidos Holding is the perfect place to advance your career. Check out the latest job listings and find your perfect fit at Leidos Holding.

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