Mechanical Engineer and Material Science Engineer

Company Overview

We are a world-class team of professionals who deliver next generation technology and products in robotic and autonomous platforms, ground, soldier, and maritime systems in 50+ locations world-wide. Much of our work contributes to innovative research in the fields of sensor science, signal processing, data fusion, artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and augmented reality (AR).

QinetiQ US's dedicated experts in defense, aerospace, security, and related fields all work together to explore new ways of protecting the American Warfighter, Security Forces, and Allies. Being a part of QinetiQ US means being central to the safety and security of the world around us. Partnering with our customers, we help save lives; reduce risks to society; and maintain the global infrastructure on which we all depend.

Why Join QinetiQ US?

If you have the courage to take on a wide variety of complex challenges, then you will experience a unique working environment where innovative teams blend different perspectives, disciplines, and technologies to discover new ways of solving complex problems. In our diverse and inclusive environment, you can be authentic, feel valued, be respected, and realize your full potential. QinetiQ US will support you with workplace flexibility, a commitment to the health and well-being of you and your family and provide opportunities to work with a purpose. We are committed to supporting your success in both your professional and personal lives.

Position Overview

QinetiQ US is seeking a full-time Mechanical Engineering and Material Science Engineer to join our Optics, Displays, and Sensor Protection team at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. This position is focused on applying mechanical engineering principles and material science expertise to the design, development, testing, and evaluation of advanced optical systems, micro-display technologies, EO/IR sensors, and sensor protection solutions.

The selected candidate will contribute to meaningful technical work supporting the development of innovative solutions operating across the Visible (VIS), Near IR (NIR), Short-Wave IR (SWIR), Mid-Wave IR (MWIR), and Long-Wave IR (LWIR) portions of the electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) spectrum. This role is ideal for candidates with a strong foundation in mechanical engineering and material science who are looking to apply and deepen their technical expertise in a fast-paced defense prototyping environment.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and prototype advanced optical materials, components, assemblies, and subassemblies for imaging and non-imaging systems.
• Apply mechanical engineering principles to the development of lightweight eyepiece optics and electronically switchable optical devices.
• Conduct research and development of anti-reflectance, high-reflectivity, and enhanced absorption optical coatings and thin-film optical surface treatments for broad and narrow band applications.
• Contribute to the development of micro-display components and eyepiece optics, including refractive, waveguide, and freeform prism technologies for advanced virtual displays.
• Investigate and improve materials and processes for display technologies, build prototypes, and assess displays and eyepiece optics in a laboratory environment.
• Support the development, testing, and evaluation of IR and EO devices operating across VIS, NIR, SWIR, MWIR, and LWIR wavebands.
• Perform laboratory testing, characterization, and field testing of advanced EO/IR camera sensors and imaging systems.
• Collaborate within multidisciplinary teams of hardware engineers, software engineers, and scientists to design, develop, assemble, test, and optimize optical and electro-optical systems.
• Prepare technical reports, test plans, and documentation in accordance with applicable standards.
• Participate in design reviews and present findings to government and internal stakeholders.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Material Science, or a closely related STEM discipline.
• Demonstrated coursework or project experience in mechanical design, material science, or optical systems.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, AutoCAD) for mechanical design and analysis.
• Experience with Python, MATLAB, or similar tools for instrumentation, data acquisition, and analysis.
• Ability to perform hands-on laboratory work, including assembly, alignment, calibration, and testing of mechanical and optical devices.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to contribute to technical reports and documentation.
• Must be able to obtain a DoD Secret clearance (or have an active clearance).

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with optical systems, imaging science, or infrared technologies.
• Familiarity with thin-film coatings, surface treatment processes, or material characterization techniques.
• Experience with machining, mechanical design, electronics, or building scientific instruments.
• A passion for mechanical engineering, material science, and their application to national defense.

Company EEO Statement

Accessibility/Accommodation:

If because of a medical condition or disability you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please send an e-mail to or call Opt. 1 and let us know the nature of your request and contact information.

QinetiQ US is an Equal Opportunity employer. All Qualified Applicants will receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, age, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or protected Veteran status.