HRL Laboratories, an IBM company, pioneers the next frontiers of physical and information science. Delivering transformative technologies in automotive, aerospace and defense, HRL advances the critical missions of its customers to help them remove limitations and create competitive advantage. HRL then transitions the work back to customers – ready for real-world application. For more than 70 years, HRL’s rich portfolio of scientific discoveries and engineering innovations continues to build on each other — often in unexpected, profound and far-reaching ways. As a private company owned by IBM, HRL prioritizes purpose over profit, significantly advancing the state of the art.

HRL Laboratories pioneers world-class infrared sensor systems for aerospace and defense, enhancing national capabilities through innovative solutions. We collaborate closely with our customers to transform emerging needs into high-performance outcomes. Our business model leverages our focus on advanced research and product delivery, ensuring customer satisfaction and mission success.

HRL is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to support the design, development, qualification, and production of advanced infrared imaging systems. This role focuses on infrared detector packaging, Integrated Dewar Assemblies (IDAs), cold-stage design, cryogenic hardware, and precision electro-mechanical systems. The successful candidate will serve as a key technical contributor and provide technical leadership commensurate with experience, influencing packaging architectures, engineering best practices, and design decisions across multiple development efforts.

Key Responsibilities

Lead the design and development of infrared detector packaging, cold stages, IDAs, and related electro-mechanical assemblies

Defind packaging architectures and perform design trade studies supporting next generation infrared sensing products

Perform thermal, structural, tolerance, and reliability analyses to support product design and qualification

Generate CAD models, drawings, specifications, bills of materials, and engineering documnentation

Apply GD&T principles to ensure manufacturability, assembly, inspection, and product performance requirements are achieved

Support environmental, thermal, vibration, shock, vacuum, and qualification testing efforts

Participate in customer reviews, design reviews, and technical interchange meetings

Provide technical guidance and mentorship as appropriate

Required Qualifications

BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering or related discipline

Significant experience in precision mechanical design and advanced product development

Strong proficiency with 3D CAD tools and engineering drawing creation

Deep understanding of GD&T, tolerance analysis, materials selection, manufacturing methods, and engineering analysis techniques

Familiarity with AS9100-controlled engineering and manufacturing environments

Physical Requirements

Ability to work for extended periods while standing or sitting at a computer workstation

Familiarity standard laboratory and manufacturing safety procedures

Sufficient mobility to work within laboratory, cleanroom and manufacturing environments

Special Requirements

US citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain a US Government security clearance

Must be able to work flexible hours

Compensation and Benefits

Pay Range: $172,900 - $221,600

Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location (California). The range displayed on each job posting reflects the target range for new hire salaries for the position. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range during the hiring process.

Benefits: HRL offers a generous and very competitive total compensation and benefits package. Our Regular/Full Time benefits include medical, dental, vision, life insurance, 401K match, gym facilities, PTO, Sick time, upward mobility, and an exciting and challenging work environment.