Job Title: Mechanical EngineerJob Description
This Mechanical Engineer role focuses on the design, analysis, and validation of complex mechanical and structural systems, with a strong emphasis on finite element method (FEM) analysis and structural dynamics. You will work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to develop high-performance vehicle systems, integrating dynamics requirements into the overall system baseline and supporting the full lifecycle from design through acceptance and qualification. The position offers the opportunity to contribute to advanced engineering projects, particularly in space, launch, or defense-related environments, while collaborating closely with colleagues across engineering disciplines.
Responsibilities
Apply finite element method (FEM) analysis principles to evaluate structural performance, strength, and durability of mechanical and structural components.
Develop, build, and refine finite element models for complex vehicle systems, ensuring accuracy and alignment with project requirements.
Perform structural dynamics analyses and apply key structural dynamics principles to assess dynamic behavior and responses under operational environments.
Define, derive, and integrate dynamics requirements into the system baseline, ensuring they are properly captured, documented, and communicated to the wider engineering team.
Use finite element numerical software such as NASTRAN to perform detailed simulations, evaluate results, and recommend design improvements.
Create and update Computer-Aided Design (CAD) and 3D models of vehicle systems using tools such as SolidWorks and other CAD packages.
Produce detailed engineering drawings and documentation, including drafting and use of tools such as AutoCAD, to support manufacturing and integration activities.
Support Assembly, Integration, and Test (AIT), Assembly, Integration, and Verification (AIV), as well as acceptance and qualification activities by providing structural and mechanical engineering expertise.
Contribute to risk assessments and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA), identifying potential issues and proposing mitigation strategies.
Collaborate closely with multi-disciplinary design and development teams, including other engineering units, to ensure cohesive and integrated solutions.
Provide support to other internal units by sharing structural, mechanical, and FEM expertise, and assisting with cross-functional engineering tasks as required.
Utilize tools such as MATLAB to perform data analysis, post-processing of FEM results, and development of engineering calculations and models.
Communicate technical findings, analysis results, and design recommendations clearly through written reports and oral presentations.
Manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously, maintaining excellent organization and prioritization to meet deadlines.
Demonstrate a proactive, "do what it takes" attitude and strong problem-solving skills to resolve technical challenges quickly and effectively.
Maintain impeccable attention to detail and a strong sense of urgency in all engineering activities, ensuring high quality and reliability of deliverables.
Essential Skills
At least 3 years of professional experience in a mechanical engineering role or closely related position; relevant work experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.
Proficiency in the application of finite element method (FEM) analysis principles for structural and mechanical systems.
Hands-on experience with finite element numerical software such as NASTRAN.
Strong expertise in structural dynamics, including analysis and practical application of key structural dynamics principles.
In-depth understanding and application of structures and structural dynamics principles in engineering projects.
Ability to define, derive, and integrate dynamics requirements into the system baseline.
Proficiency in CAD software packages such as SolidWorks for 3D modeling and mechanical design.
Experience with Computer-Aided Design and 3D modeling of vehicle systems.
Experience with drafting and use of CAD tools such as AutoCAD.
Excellent problem-solving skills and the ability to address complex engineering challenges.
Strong written and oral communication skills for clear reporting and collaboration.
Bachelor of Science degree in Science, Engineering, or another related STEM discipline.
Progressive experience working in multi-disciplinary design and development teams.
Demonstrated ability to multi-task with excellent organizational abilities.
Impeccable attention to detail and a strong sense of urgency in completing tasks.
Additional Skills & Qualifications
Background in the space or defense sector, which will be considered a significant plus.
Familiarity with space and launch environments, including derivation of environmental conditions for design and analysis.
Familiarity with aerospace standards and tailoring, including adapting standards to specific project needs.
Experience supporting Assembly, Integration, and Test (AIT), Assembly, Integration, and Verification (AIV), acceptance, and qualification activities.
Experience supporting risk assessment and FMEA activities in an engineering environment.
Experience with MATLAB for data analysis, post-processing of FEM results, and development of engineering models.
Proven ability to work effectively as a team player with a collaborative, "do what it takes" attitude.
Strong sense of ownership, accountability, and commitment to high-quality engineering outcomes.
Work Environment
This position is based on site, providing close interaction with engineering teams, test facilities, and integration areas. You will work in a professional engineering environment that supports advanced mechanical and structural design, analysis, and testing activities, particularly for vehicle systems and potentially space or defense-related applications. The role involves regular use of engineering software tools such as NASTRAN, SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and MATLAB, as well as participation in AIT, AIV, acceptance, and qualification activities. The on-site setting encourages collaboration with multi-disciplinary teams, timely communication, and hands-on involvement in the full lifecycle of mechanical and structural systems.
Job Type & Location
This is a Contract position based out of Melbourne, FL.
Pay and Benefits
The pay range for this position is $43.00 - $50.00/hr.
Individual compensation offered for this position within this range will depend on many factors, including qualifications, skills, relevant experience, job knowledge, geographic location, internal equity, and other pertinent job-related factors.
Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: - Medical, dental & vision - Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital - 401(k) Retirement Plan - Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available - Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) - Short and long-term disability - Health Spending Account (HSA) - Transportation benefits - Employee Assistance Program - Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)
Workplace Type
This is a fully onsite position in Melbourne,FL.
Application Deadline
This position is anticipated to close on Sep 3, 2026.
About Actalent
Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.
The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.
If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.
San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.
Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.
