Principal Mechanical Engineer (Thermal Analyst)

Company: Leonardo DRS
Location: Cypress
Posted on: October 30, 2025

Job Description:

The Electro Optical Infrared Systems (EOIS) line of business within DRS has locations in Dallas and Austin, TX, Melbourne, FL, and Cypress, CA. EOIS develops, manufactures, and supports infrared and electro-optical solutions for soldiers, ground vehicles and airborne platforms. We offer an exciting and challenging work environment, a competitive salary and benefits package, and a business culture that rewards performance. Employing the world’s brightest. Supporting the world’s bravest. Job Summary DRS Network & Imaging Systems in Cypress, CA is part of the Electro-Optical and Infrared Systems Group of Leonardo DRS and has over 30 years of experience in designing and developing electro-optical/infrared systems for surveillance and targeting applications. We are seeking a highly motivated Principal Mechanical Engineer with a strong background in thermal analysis to join the company in the development of strategic space and weather systems. In this role, you will be a key contributor to the development of spaceborne EO/IR payloads, focal plane arrays, and other sensor technologies. Basic Qualifications and Required Skills Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with 10 years of relevant experience (8 years with a Master’s degree) in thermal analysis and design 5 years of experience with spacecraft thermal analysis, using tools such as Thermal Desktop, SINDA/FLUINT, SINDA/G, or TSS, including at least 2 years with Thermal Desktop and SINDA/FLUINT Strong understanding of the fundamental theories of heat transfer and the technologies of spacecraft thermal control including radiators, heat pipes, coatings, and both active and passive thermal control systems Excellent written and verbal communication skills Experience with Thermal Vacuum Chamber (TVAC) testing, including test design and planning, execution, and correlation of test results with thermal models Desired Skills and Experience Experience in the design and analysis of electro-optical (EO/IR) technology and cryogenic systems operating in space environments Proficiency with solid modeling tools, preferably Creo Experience in mechanical design and documentation per ASME standards Familiarity with DoD, NASA, and industry standards Experience in structural analysis, preferably using Ansys Workbench Proficiency in Fortran, MATLAB, Python, or VBA Current Secret or Top Secret (TS) clearance Job Duties and Responsibilities Conduct thermal analyses for opto-mechanical and electro-mechanical systems operating in orbital and cryogenic environments Collaborate with other engineers and industry partners to develop thermal interfaces and performance requirements for systems and sub-systems Provide technical expertise and assistance to other engineers and support personnel Work in a cross-functional engineering environment to support design trades, failure analyses, and design activities Ensure thermal requirements are met throughout all phases of design, integration, and testing Communicate results to internal and external stakeholders through written reports and formal presentations Participate in proposals and project planning with technical, cost, and schedule inputs Mentor junior engineers to enhance the mechanical engineering group’s capabilities Support, communicate, reinforce and defend the mission, values and culture of the organization Working Conditions Normal for an office environment. Work may require occasional weekend and/or evening work and local travel. U.S. Citizenship required. This position requires an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment. The expected pay scale for this position is $113,385/year - $176,031/year. Should the level, location, or scope of the position change during the hiring process, the pay scale may be modified accordingly. When extending an offer of employment, Leonardo DRS considers factors such as (but not limited to) the scope and responsibilities of the position; any Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, the candidate’s relevant work experience, education/training, certifications, and key skills; internal equity; and market and business considerations. Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours. *Some employees are eligible for limited benefits only Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

Keywords: Leonardo DRS, Cypress , Principal Mechanical Engineer (Thermal Analyst), Engineering , Cypress, California