Signature Research, Inc. (SGR) seeks a Lead Mechanical Design Engineer in Calumet, Michigan, right in the heart of the Upper Peninsula—where world-class engineering meets the kind of natural beauty that takes your breath away.
If you’re the kind of engineer who loves turning a rough sketch into a fully functioning prototype—and you find as much satisfaction in mentoring others as you do in tackling complex technical challenges—this may be a perfect fit for you.
WHAT WE OFFER.
- $85,000 – $110,000 annual starting wage based on your knowledge and experience.
- Comprehensive health and benefit package in which company pays all base plan health insurance premiums; buy-up options available.
- Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) Plan.
- Paid vacation, sick time and holidays.
- In-office full-time, Monday – Friday position.
WHAT YOU WILL DO.
You’ll play a key role in supporting Department of Defense and Intelligence Community programs, leading the design and manufacturing of complex systems that push boundaries in test and evaluation and prototyping. From concept to manufacturing, prototyping, and final assembly, you’ll be involved every step of the way.
- Lead mechanical design for large-scale prototypes, structural frames, enclosures, and complex mechanical systems.
- Mentor junior engineers and foster best practices in designing documentation, modeling standards, and version control.
- Drive design changes, make engineering decisions, and build outcomes that keep projects on track and in compliance.
- Apply Design for Manufacturability (DFM) principles to ensure components are optimized for machining, welding, forming, and other fabrication processes.
- Identify and mitigate design risks through analysis and prototyping.
- Collaborate with fabrication teams and suppliers to ensure smooth builds.
- Take part in design reviews, build planning, and supplier communication.
WHAT WE ARE LOOKING FOR.
- Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Design, Mechanical Engineering Technology or a directly related field required.
- 5+ years of experience designing complex mechanical systems from concept to production-ready status.
- Expertise in SolidWorks (including weldment tools, configurations, and revision control— Product Data Management (PDM) preferred).
- Proven track record producing manufacturing-ready drawings with proper GD&T and assembly references.
- Strong understanding of DFM/DFA, fabrication processes, and materials (steel, aluminum, polymers, etc.).
- Hands-on approach to solving engineering issues during prototyping and manufacturing.
- Experience with structural Finite Element Analysis (FEA).
- Ability to juggle multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
- A valid driver’s license and ability to travel within the United States (less than 20%) is required.
- S. citizenship and the ability to obtain (upon hire) and maintain a security clearance. We will help you obtain this clearance if you don’t already have it.
BONUS POINTS FOR.
- Knowledge of additive manufacturing.
- Experience working with machine shops, welders, and fabricators.
- Background in Ground Combat Vehicle Survivability or signature management.
- Active DoD Security Clearance.
ARE YOU EXCITED BY COMPLEX CHALLENGES, energized by smart teammates, and ready to lead impactful work for national defense? If this sounds like you, apply today at signatureresearch.hirescore.com
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At SGR, we’re a small, innovative tech company with offices in Calumet, Michigan and Navarre, Florida, focused on multi-spectral data collection, analysis, modeling, and software development. We offer a flexible and friendly work environment where team members are encouraged to grow, contribute, and enjoy a healthy work-life balance. Our Calumet team thrives in Michigan’s beautiful Upper Peninsula—perfect for hiking, skiing, boating, and more. If you’re looking for meaningful, challenging work in a supportive, close-knit setting, SGR is the place for you. SGR is an Equal Opportunity Employer.
