Mechanical Engineer (Per Diem) Aerospace

Job Title: Mechanical EngineerJob DescriptionThe position requires a strong knowledge of both technical and project/team management for the mechanical aspects of infrared (IR) payloads. The role involves mechanical systems leadership for IR payloads and subsystems, ensuring compliance from requirement allocations to specification and interface definition. The candidate will perform detailed mechanical design of precision mechanisms, including optical gimbals, bearings, twist capsules, deployment mechanisms, flexures, and mirror mounts for cryogenic applications.ResponsibilitiesLead small to mid-sized cross-functional design teams for IR payloads and mechanical subsystems.Collaborate with Manufacturing and Procurement during the build and test of mechanisms.Communicate effectively for internal and external presentations and reviews.Author Preliminary Design Reviews (PDRs), Critical Design Reviews (CDRs), and other required design reviews.Perform trade studies to determine optimal designs.Assist with schedule, cost, and technical responsibility at the major subsystem level.Complete cost estimation for proposals.Act as the primary interface to customers and upper management.Provide guidance and mentorship for other team members.Direct and review the work of junior engineers, designers, and technicians.Participate in risk assessment and develop mitigation strategies for complex projects.Essential SkillsBachelor's Degree with a minimum of 6 years of relevant experience or a Graduate Degree with a minimum of 4 years of related experience. In lieu of a degree, a minimum of 10 years of related experience is required.Ability to obtain and maintain DOD Security Clearance.Experience in design and testing for space environments such as temperature, vacuum, and radiation.3+ years of experience in 3D CAD modeling using industry-standard tools.Hands-on mechanical engineering experience, including integration and diagnosis of complex mechanisms and products.Additional Skills & QualificationsExperience with space mechanisms, infrared payloads, and mechanical design.Proficiency in Solidworks and Creo.Knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (Gd&t).Work EnvironmentThe position is a hybrid role, with work conducted at Nomadics HQ in Morristown, NJ, or onsite at a facility in Clifton, NJ. The work schedule follows a 9/80 structure, allowing flexibility in work hours. The opportunity offers the ability to work for a Small Business Enterprise (SBE) on a large Tier 3 government program.Job Type & LocationThis is a Contract position based out of Morristown, NJ.Pay and BenefitsThe pay range for this position is $75.00 - $100.00/hr.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 TypeThis is a fully onsite position in Morristown,NJ.Application DeadlineThis position is anticipated to close on Mar 27, 2026.Diversity, Equity & InclusionAt Actalent, diversity and inclusion are a bridge towards the equity and success of our people. DE&I is embedded into our culture through:Hiring diverse talentMaintaining an inclusive environment through persistent self-reflectionBuilding a culture of care, engagement, and recognition with clear outcomesEnsuring growth opportunities for our peopleActalent is an equal opportunity employer.About ActalentActalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services. For more than 40 years, we've helped visionary companies advance their goals. Headquartered in the United States, our teams span 150 offices across North America, EMEA, and APAC-with four delivery centers in India led by 1,000+ extraordinary employees who connect their passion with purpose every day.Our Bangalore, Hyderabad, Pune, and Chennai delivery centers are hubs of engineering expertise, with core capabilities in mechanical and electrical engineering, systems and software, and manufacturing engineering. Our teams deliver work across multiple industries including transportation, consumer and industrial products, and life sciences. We serve more than 4,500 clients, including many Fortune 500 brands. Learn more about how we can work together at actalentservices.com.