Lead Mechanical Design Engineer

Position Overview

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.

Key Responsibilities

• 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.
• ApplyDesign 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.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Design, Mechanical Engineering Technology or a directly related field.
• 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.
• U.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.)

Preferred Qualifications

• 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.

Benefits & Perks

• $85,000 – $110,000 annual starting wagebased on your knowledge and experience.
• Comprehensive health and benefit package(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.