Principal Energetics Engineer

Huntsville, AL DEFENSE Full-time $134k to $204k Posted Oct 21, 2026
Apply on AeroVironment (opens in a new tab) Sourced via avav.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com · Posted 2026-10-21

About this role

AeroVironment is hiring a Principal Energetics Engineer, full-time, on-site in Huntsville, AL, in the DEFENSE sector.

Worker Type

Regular

Job Description

The Principal Mechanical Energetics Engineer is considered a subject matter expert in the discipline. One demonstrates visionary & professional concepts in developing resolution to critical issues and broad design matters pertaining to the development of a variety of innovative missile systems for defense and commercial applications. The Principal Mechanical Energetics Engineer will function as the primary point of contact for the supplier efforts to design/build/test/deliver Solid Rocket Motors (SRM) and Warheads for complex a missile system. This individual will lead/support the integration and requirements definitions for these subsystems to include generation of specifications and working with systems engineering to complete MBSE activities. Further skills will include driving mechanical packaging of these items to withstand stringent environmental requirements (i.e., mass, volume, thermal, vibration).

Position Responsibilities

· Personifies the AV pillar of “Innovation”.

· Lead development efforts of SRM and Warhead suppliers

· Leads proposal development for energetics related to new missile programs

· Functions as the interface between suppliers, AV, and the customer as it relates to energetics efforts

· Leads or supports the thermal, structural, dynamic, and fluid flow analysis efforts

· Leads the testing and data collection in the laboratory and the field

· Performs stress and fatigue analysis; Performs thermal analysis and selects bonding material

· Develops specifications, mechanical drawings, and specifies the dimensional tolerances

· Develops assembly instructions and test procedures

· Develops/supports test plans and test procedures to verify designs

· Works on complex issues where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth knowledge of variable factors

· Develops and mentors high-performing engineering teams

· Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

· A Minimum of 12 years and a Bachelor's degree; 8 years and a Master's degree; or 5 years and a PhD of relevant technical experience in SRM and Warhead development

· Experienced in developing requirements specification for mechanical subsystems

· Has sufficient proficiency with the following CAD/CAE tools to perform one's position responsibilities:

o CREO for mechanical modeling.

o ANSYS for structural and fatigue analysis

o ANSYS Icepack for thermal analysis.

· Experienced with manufacturing methodologies of electrical/mechanical assemblies

· Experienced with creating and maintaining products bill of materials (BOM)

· Experienced with test and measurement techniques, such as torque transducer calibration and instrumentation

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

· MS degree in Mechanical Engineering is preferred

· Demonstrates familiarity with MIL-STD-810 or DO-160

· Demonstrates familiarity with MIL-STD 961D standards (or equivalent) for developing subsystem technical specifications

· Demonstrates full understanding & knowledge of engineering principles in the technical discipline and successfully works independently

· Effectively articulates concepts and ideas to both technical and non-technical staff

· Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties

· Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives

· Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products

· Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company

· Has effective problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal and communication skills (Verbal and written)

· Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests

Physical Demands

· Ability to work in an office and production environment (Constant)

· Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)

· Performs stress and fatigue analysis; Performs thermal analysis and selects bonding material

· Develops specifications, mechanical drawings, and specifies the dimensional tolerances

· Develops assembly instructions and test procedures

· Develops/supports test plans and test procedures to verify designs

· Works on complex issues where analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth knowledge of variable factors

· Executes team assignments effectively following the given schedule, milestone, and available resources. May coordinate activities of other personnel (Team Lead).

· Other duties as assigned

Basic Qualifications (Required Skills & Experience)

· Minimum 8 - 12 years of relevant technical experience in SRM and Warhead development

· Experienced in developing requirements specification for mechanical subsystems

· Has sufficient proficiency with the following CAD /CAE tools to perform one's position responsibilities:

· CREO for mechanical modeling.

· ANSYS for structural and fatigue analysis

· ANSYS Icepack for thermal analysis.

· Experienced with manufacturing methodologies of electrical/mechanical assemblies

· Experienced with creating and maintaining product document tree

· Experienced with creating and maintaining products bill of materials (BOM)

· Experienced with test and measurement techniques, such as torque transducer calibration and instrumentation

Other Qualifications & Desired Competencies

· MS degree in Mechanical Engineering is preferred

· Demonstrates familiarity with MIL-STD-810 or DO-160

· Demonstrates familiarity with MIL-STD 961D standards (or equivalent) for developing subsystem technical specifications

· Demonstrates full understanding & knowledge of engineering principles in the technical discipline and successfully works independently

· Effectively articulates concepts and ideas to both technical and non-technical staff

· Able to excel in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, where small teams share a broad variety of duties

· Displays strong initiative and drive to accomplish goals and meet company objectives

· Takes ownership and responsibility for current and past work products

· Is committed to learning from mistakes and driven to improve and enhance performance of oneself, others, and the company

· Has effective problem-solving, analytical, interpersonal and communication skills (Verbal and written)

· Focuses on teamwork, collaboration and puts the success of the team above one's own interests

Physical Demands

· Ability to work in an office and production environment (Constant)

· Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)

Clearance Level

Secret

The salary range for this role is:
$133,500 - $203,750

AeroVironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.

ITAR Requirement:

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Description from AeroVironment's official posting. Always confirm details on the company careers page.

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About AeroVironment

AeroVironment

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Larry Sherwood Jr.

About Larry Sherwood Jr.

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