Mechanical Systems Engineer - JobID-0219

Company: Innovative Defense Technologies
Location: Arlington, Virginia
Type: hybrid
Posted: Aug 19, 2026
Views: 3

✨ AI Summary

Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a defense technology company, is hiring a Mechanical Systems Engineer for compute infrastructure and integration in Arlington, VA. The role involves mechanical design, thermal analysis, and systems integration for advanced computing and mission systems, using CAD tools like SolidWorks, Creo, or CATIA. Requires a Bachelor's in Mechanical/Systems Engineering and 5+ years of experience; must be able to obtain a Secret clearance. On-site at least 3 days per week, with a pay range of $114,000-$231,000 and perks like 9/80 schedule, 401(k) match, and tuition assistance.

About The Role:
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT), a leading defense technology company, is seeking a Mechanical Systems Engineer – Compute Infrastructure & Integration to be part of our Advanced Capabilities team and based out of our Arlington, VA location.
Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT) is seeking a Mechanical Systems Engineer for IDT’s HCI, tactical compute and data-center modernization efforts. This position supports the design, integration, and sustainment of advanced computing, networking, and mission systems deployed in defense environments. This role combines traditional mechanical engineering principles with systems engineering methodologies to ensure hardware platforms, infrastructure components, and integrated solutions meet performance, thermal, reliability, and operational requirements.
The ideal candidate possesses a strong background in mechanical design, thermal management, systems integration, and technical architecture development. This individual will work closely with software, network, electrical, cybersecurity, and systems engineering teams to develop and deploy mission-critical solutions for Department of Defense customers.
Clearance & Location Requirements:
  • All applicants must be able to obtain/maintain an active Secret U.S. Security Clearance.
  • This is an on-site position. Requiring at least 3 days in office, based out of our Arlington, VA location.
What You Will Do:
  • Design and develop mechanical solutions supporting computing infrastructure, networked systems, ruggedized hardware, and mission systems.
  • Create and maintain detailed 3D CAD models, assemblies, and engineering drawings for system enclosures, racks, mounts, cooling solutions, and integrated hardware platforms.
  • Perform thermal analyses, heat transfer studies, airflow evaluations, and cooling assessments for high-performance computing and electronic systems.
  • Support system architecture development through the creation and interpretation of Unified Data Architecture (UDA) diagrams, interface control documents, data flow diagrams, and system integration artifacts.
  • Collaborate with systems engineers to define hardware, infrastructure, environmental, and operational requirements.
  • Participate in requirements decomposition, trade studies, system modeling, and architecture development activities.
  • Support the integration of computing, networking, storage, and mission systems into customer environments.
  • Analyze system performance, identify technical risks, and recommend engineering solutions to improve reliability, maintainability, and scalability.
  • Support engineering reviews, integration events, testing activities, and customer demonstrations.
  • Develop technical documentation, engineering reports, installation guides, and design packages.
  • Work closely with cross-functional engineering teams to ensure successful implementation of integrated hardware and software solutions.
Who You Are (Required):
  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Systems Engineering, related engineering discipline, or equivalent full-time professional experience.
  • 5+ years of engineering experience supporting complex technical systems.
  • Proficiency with CAD software such as SolidWorks, Creo, CATIA, or equivalent.
  • Experience performing thermal analyses, heat transfer studies, and cooling system evaluations.
  • Experience supporting systems engineering activities, including requirements development, architecture definition, and integration planning.
  • Ability to interpret and develop technical diagrams including UDA diagrams, system architecture diagrams, interface diagrams, and engineering workflows.
  • Understanding of data center infrastructure, computing hardware, networking equipment, or mission system architectures.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to travel up to 10% of the time as needed
What Makes You Stand Out:
  • Experience supporting Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition programs.
  • Familiarity with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) methodologies and tools.
  • Experience with Cameo, MagicDraw, Enterprise Architect, or similar systems modeling tools.
  • Experience integrating servers, storage systems, networking equipment, or hyperconverged infrastructure (HCI) solutions.
  • Experience with computational fluid dynamics (CFD), thermal modeling, or environmental testing.
  • Familiarity with open architecture initiatives such as SOSA, CMOSS, FACE, and MOSA.
  • Knowledge of cybersecurity requirements and secure infrastructure design.
  • Experience supporting system-level integration, test, and evaluation activities.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced engineering environment.
  • Commitment to engineering excellence, quality, and mission success.
  • Ability to operate effectively between traditional engineering disciplines and IT-focused technical teams.
  • Strong systems-thinking mindset with the ability to understand interactions between hardware, software, networking, and operational requirements.
  • Proven ability to communicate complex technical concepts to engineering leadership, program management, and customers.
  • Experience working in fast-paced development and integration environments.
  • 5+ years of compliance, risk management, or related experience within the defense or government contracting industry
  • Experience with:
    • Ruggedized compute platforms
    • Electronics packaging
    • Thermal management of high-performance processing systems
    • C5ISR systems integration
    • Open architecture frameworks (CMOSS, SOSA, FACE, etc.) if applicable to your program portfolio
If you see yourself reflected in this role and are excited about the impact you could make, we encourage you to apply! If you know someone who may be a great fit, please feel free to share this opportunity with your network.

Pay Range*: $114,000 - $184,000 or $135,000 - $231,000

This amount may not be reflective of actual compensation that may be earned as pay is dependent on a candidate’s experience, skills, and education. The posted range does not include bonuses, commissions, tips, or other benefits. IDT is often looking to place multiple candidates at various levels. Therefore, more than one pay range has been included, commensurate with experience.
Why Work at Innovative Defense Technologies (IDT):

IDT is a growing company with a vibrant, entrepreneurial culture. We are headquartered in Arlington, VA with additional offices in Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; and San Diego, CA. At each location, our employees work together in a modern, snack-filled, and social office space, designing innovative solutions for our defense industry customers. We offer employees competitive pay and benefits including:
  • Generous benefits package
  • Competitive PTO
  • Paid holidays
  • 401(k) with immediate vesting and matching
  • 9/80 optional schedule (2nd and 4th Friday off every month)
  • Tuition Assistance Reimbursement Program
  • Professional Development Resources
  • Pre-Tax Commuter Benefits
  • Organization-Wide Monthly Tech Connect Events
  • Annual Employee Recognition Awards
  • Regular Social Events and Catered Lunches

EEO Statement:
IDT is an Equal Opportunity employer.
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About the Company

Name: Innovative Defense Technologies
Location: Arlington, VA; Fall River, MA; Mount Laurel, NJ; San Diego, CA
Website: https://idtus.pinpointhq.com

IDT leads the way in integrating complex and disparate defense systems, delivering transformative results. Through advanced technology/automation, IDT accelerates system modernization by enabling defense platforms to rapidly evolve and maintain mission superiority.

Our teams are highly skilled and a group that offers strong opportunities for collaboration and continuous learning/development. They reflect a culture grounded in teamwork, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence.

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