Principal Mechanical Engineer

Principal Mechanical EngineerViken Detection is seeking a highly experienced Principal Mechanical Engineer to provide technical leadership and architectural ownership across our advanced detection and imaging systems. This highest-level individual contributor role sets mechanical design strategy, drives cross-platform alignment, and tackles complex system-level challenges. The Principal Mechanical Engineer partners closely with Engineering, Physics, Program Management, and Operations to deliver high-performance, manufacturable, reliable, and cost-effective solutions from concept through sustaining engineering.ResponsibilitiesServe as mechanical system architect for major product platformsLead system-level design decisions, trade studies, and risk mitigationEstablish mechanical standards, best practices, and reusable design architecturesDrive cross-functional alignment across mechanical, electrical, software, and physics teamsLead development of complex electromechanical systems including structures, mechanisms, and enclosuresDrive early-stage innovation by assembling and testing proof-of-concept prototypes to validate concepts and reduce technical riskOwn mechanical execution across the full product lifecycle from concept through sustainingResolve high-impact, cross-subsystem technical challengesOversee tolerance analysis, structural integrity, environmental robustness, and reliabilityPartner with Operations to ensure manufacturable, scalable, and cost-effective designsLead mechanical NPI efforts, production readiness, and supplier engagementIncorporate production, quality, and field feedback into continuous improvementMentor engineers and lead technical design reviewsInfluence engineering roadmaps, resourcing, and long-term technical strategyAdvise engineering leadership on mechanical risk, capability, and executionPromote engineering rigor, documentation quality, and technical excellenceTravel as needed (e.g., to suppliers, manufacturing partners, field deployments, or customer sites) to support development, integration, and issue resolutionRequirementsBachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering10+ years of mechanical engineering experience in complex product developmentProven technical lead or system owner on shipped productsExperience designing electromechanical systems such as handheld devices, large-scale industrial or vehicle-mounted equipment, or precision mechanismsStrong knowledge of manufacturing processes including injection-molded plastics, structural metals, welded assemblies, and tolerance managementAdvanced proficiency with SolidWorks or Onshape; working knowledge of FEA and mechanical simulationExcellent communication and cross-functional collaboration skillsDemonstrated ownership of designs from concept through full-rate productionExperience with ruggedized, safety-critical, or harsh-environment products; collaboration with Physics or Imaging teams preferredPassion for mission-driven engineering and real-world impactAdditional InformationLocation: This role is based in Burlington, MA. We are seeking local candidates, as relocation assistance is not available.Work Authorization: Applicants must be authorized to work in the U.S. on a full-time basis. We are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this position.