Mechanical Engineering Technician

Join a dynamic and fast-paced environment where you will be instrumental in developing new generations of sensing, real-time processing, and actuation technologies. As a Mechanical Engineer, you will engage in a variety of tasks including designing, fabricating test equipment, assembling components, and supporting engineering design teams. Additionally, you will play a key role in designing, prototyping, and maintaining Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for counter-UAS testing, which may involve handling explosives and explosive devices.

• Design and possibly fabricate test equipment.
• Assemble components and assist engineering design teams.
• Develop and conduct internal and external tests.
• Design, prototype, assemble, and maintain UAS for cUAS testing.
• Assist with parts selection, purchasing, shipping, and overseeing outside contractors.
• Maintain shop, assembly, and testing areas.
• Manage the maintenance of company vehicles and experimental platforms including HMMWVs, MRAPs, and Strykers.

• Experience with UAS and drone technology.
• Proficiency in CAD and SolidWorks.
• Experience with 3D printing and maintaining a 3D print farm.
• Excellent shop skills and knowledge of safety practices.
• Ability to design, update, tune, maintain, and fly UAS.
• Use of hand tools and measurement equipment.

• Self-starter with a willingness to learn.
• Strong verbal communication skills and basic math ability.
• Experience or willingness to learn basic machine tools such as mills, drill presses, lathes, band saws, and grinders.
• Ability to read drawings.
• Auto maintenance experience.
• General laboratory and/or test range experience.
• Explosives experience or willingness to learn.
• CNC and CAM experience.
• Proficiency with standard PC programs (Word, Powerpoint, email, etc.).

The role involves a balanced work environment with a 50/50 split between office tasks and hands-on work in the onsite shop. You will be part of a rapidly growing team developing advanced protection systems for the military, offering a unique ground-floor opportunity in a thriving and innovative company.

This is a Permanent position based out of Herndon, VA.

The pay range for this position is $70000.00 - $100000.00/yr.

401k Health/ Dental PTO- 3 weeks + 1 week sick

This is a fully onsite position in Herndon,VA.

This position is anticipated to close on Feb 25, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 30,000 consultants and more than 4,500 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.