Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (ABET-accredited) or higher.
Registered Professional Engineer (PE).
15+ years in mechanical engineering design.
Experience leading cross-disciplinary project teams.
Skilled in preparing design deliverables and resolving technical comments.
Attention to detail and collaborative spirit.
U.S. citizenship and ability to secure government clearance.
Responsibilities
Lead multi-disciplinary project teams to execute design/build/test projects efficiently.
Mentor junior engineers and designers for their professional growth.
Provide strategic technical leadership in mechanical design.
Conduct design analysis to ensure compliance with industry standards.
Oversee test plans and support system testing and troubleshooting.
Collaborate with fabrication teams for manufacturability.
Communicate project status and challenges effectively with stakeholders.
Benefits
Opportunity to work on complex and innovative design projects.
Growth-oriented environment with mentorship opportunities.
Engagement in nuclear and hazardous waste remediation initiatives.
Access to a collaborative multidisciplinary team.
Involvement with government contract work enhancing job stability.
Full Job Description
Principal Mechanical Engineer
Location: Richland, WA Company: Columbia Energy & Environmental Services Salary: $120,000 - $180,000 DOE
Position Overview
We are seeking an accomplished Principal Mechanical Engineer to join our team in Richland, WA. This role provides opportunities to serve as a technical lead, project engineer, and mentor to project teams while contributing to complex design/build/test projects. The successful candidate will bring a combination of deep technical expertise, leadership ability, and a collaborative mindset to drive innovative solutions for nuclear and hazardous waste remediation, chemical processing, and nuclear ventilation systems.
Essential Responsibilities & Duties
Leadership & Mentorship
Lead multi-disciplinary project teams in the execution of complex design/build/test projects, ensuring scope, schedule, and budget objectives are met.
Act as a mentor and resource for junior engineers and designers, fostering technical growth and professional development.
Technical Expertise
Provide strategic technical leadership in mechanical design, collaborating with engineers, designers, and shop staff.
Conduct design analysis and reviews to ensure compliance with applicable industry codes and standards (e.g., ASME B31.3, ASME B&PV, ASME AG-1).
Develop and oversee test plans and procedures, supporting system testing and troubleshooting.
Maintain configuration control of baseline drawings and documents while ensuring accuracy and quality of design deliverables.
Project Collaboration & Fabrication Support
Work closely with fabrication teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and optimized for production.
Apply hands-on experience in fabrication processes to support design, manufacturability, and troubleshooting during production.
Provide clear communication and updates to project stakeholders regarding task status, technical challenges, and progress.
Support continuous improvement initiatives in design and fabrication processes to enhance efficiency and quality.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (ABET-accredited) or higher.
Registered Professional Engineer (PE).
Minimum of 15 years of demonstrated experience in mechanical engineering design.
Proven experience leading and managing project teams across disciplines.
