We have an exciting opportunity for a
Mechanical Engineer - Rotating Equipment to join our JETS II contract team at
NASA Johnson Space Center in Houston, TX.
If selected you will: - Lead all reliability and lifecycle activities for critical rotating assets, high-vacuum systems, and complex pumping architectures.
- Develop detailed engineering calculations, technical specifications, and procurement packages for pumps, compressors, mechanical seals, bearings, and vacuum components.
- Act as the primary technical lead for real-time troubleshooting of mechanical failures, vibration issues, and performance degradation in rotating systems.
- Conduct formal Root Cause Analysis (RCA) on equipment failures reports and implement data-driven corrective and preventive action plans.
- Review, update, and interpret P&IDs, isometric drawings, and mechanical schematics to maintain strict configuration control.
- Oversee the design, installation, commissioning, and long-term maintenance of mechanical systems to ensure peak operational readiness.
- Partner with Systems Engineering, Human Factors, and maintenance teams during collaborative drafting sessions for facility upgrades and HITL test plans.
- Provide hands-on technical guidance and training to maintenance and operations personnel to improve system-specific knowledge and reduce manual errors.
- Participate in hazard reviews, design assessments, and reliability audits to ensure all equipment meets applicable codes (ASME, ANSI) and safety standards.
- Coordinate directly with vendors and contractors to resolve technical discrepancies and ensure high-quality delivery of specialized mechanical components.
- Maintain configuration management control and documentation throughout project and lifecycle phases
- Support procurement of mechanical components, including pumps, compressors, seals, bearings, and vacuum equipment.
Qualifications:This position has been posted at multiple levels. Depending on the candidate's experience, requirements, and business needs, we reserve the right to consider candidates at any level for which this position has been advertised.
- Typically requires a bachelor's degree in Engineering and a minimum of 2- 5 years of experience in the field or in a related area.
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology.
- Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, reliability engineering, or rotating equipment maintenance.
- Demonstrated background in the selection, operation, and maintenance of high-performance rotating assets, including centrifugal/positive displacement pumps, compressors, blowers, and turbines.
- Hands-on experience with industrial vacuum systems (roughing and high-vacuum) and complex pumping architectures.
- High proficiency in developing, reviewing, and interpreting P&IDs, mechanical schematics, and isometric drawings to maintain configuration control.
- Proven track record of performing Root Cause Analysis and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis to drive measurable reliability improvements.
- Strong understanding of critical mechanical components, including mechanical seals, precision bearings, couplings, and advanced lubrication systems.
- Ability to provide real-time technical support in a fast-paced operational environment, bridging the gap between engineering design and field maintenance.
- Excellent documentation skills and the ability to lead collaborative sessions with cross-functional teams (Systems Engineering, Human Factors, and Operations).
Preferred Qualifications: - Professional familiarity with ASME and ANSI mechanical standards and their application in high-reliability environments.
- Experience utilizing condition monitoring tools, including vibration analysis, thermography, and oil analysis, to drive proactive maintenance strategies.
- Direct experience with cryogenic systems or complex low-pressure vacuum architectures.
- Proven background supporting high-stakes operations in industrial, chemical, energy, or research facilities.
- Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., Inventor, AutoCAD, CREO) and engineering simulation tools.
Benefits - Competitive pay
- Positive work-life balance
- 100% Employer paid insurance including: Medical, dental, vision, life insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, short-term disability, and long-term disability
- 11 paid holidays annually
- Generous PTO
- 401k after 12 months of service with employer match
- Education assistance
- Relocation assistance (if applicable)
Mclaurin is a unique organization with a special focus on combining the best features of research and industry in order to foster innovation. Our organization strongly supports research, publication, and engagement with the academic community. We encourage our employees to remain on the cutting edge of new developments in their respective disciplines.
US Citizenship and the ability to pass a comprehensive security background investigation is required. 
