Entry Level R&D Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Durham, NC

Protecting What Matters. Powering the Future of Naval Technology.

Your work here has global impact. From developing sonar and radar systems to advancing unmanned and undersea platforms, our technologies empower the U.S. Navy and allied forces to operate in some of the world's most complex environments.

As the maritime and underwater battlespace evolves, we continue to push boundaries-driven by innovation, accountability, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Join us as we shape the future of naval warfare-safeguarding the seas and strengthening navies worldwide.

Nationality Requirements

Due to the nature of the programs we support, certain roles may require candidates to meet U.S. nationality requirements and be eligible to obtain a security clearance.

Position Summary

Ultra Maritime is seeking a motivated Mechanical Engineer I to join our Engineering team. This entry-level position is ideal for recent graduates or early-career engineers who are eager to apply their mechanical engineering knowledge while contributing to the design, development, testing, and production of advanced defense systems.
Working under the guidance of experienced engineers, the Mechanical Engineer I will support engineering projects by designing mechanical components, conducting engineering analyses, performing prototype testing, and assisting with product development from concept through production.

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

• Apply mechanical engineering principles to support project objectives while meeting customer cost, schedule, and quality requirements.
• Design, analyze, and maintain mechanical components and assemblies in accordance with engineering requirements and applicable standards.
• Create and maintain engineering documentation including drawings, Bills of Materials (BOMs), specifications, and engineering change documentation.
• Develop 3D CAD models, detailed drawings, and engineering designs for new and existing products.
• Assist with prototype fabrication, assembly, integration, and testing.
• Conduct prototype and qualification testing to evaluate product performance, reliability, and safety.
• Collect, analyze, and document test data; recommend design improvements based on results.
• Support root cause investigations and corrective actions for product or manufacturing issues.
• Collaborate with Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Systems, Electrical, and Configuration Management teams throughout the product lifecycle.
• Participate in design reviews, peer reviews, and technical meetings.
• Support manufacturing by resolving production issues and implementing engineering improvements.
• Travel to customer sites, suppliers, or test facilities as required (up to 10%).

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related engineering discipline.
• 0+ years of professional engineering experience or completion of a recognized engineering apprenticeship or internship.
• Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles and engineering analysis.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.
• Experience with 3D CAD software such as:
  • SolidWorks
  • Autodesk Inventor
  • Creo
• U.S. Citizenship required with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government Security Clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of common manufacturing processes including machining, sheet metal fabrication, molding, welding, or additive manufacturing.
• Internship, co-op, or university project experience involving mechanical design or testing.
• Exposure to engineering documentation, prototype development, and laboratory testing.

What Ultra Maritime Offers You

At Ultra Maritime, we invest in our employees and their well-being:

• Climate controlled, well-lit and clean work environment!

• Work/life balance that includes up to 140 hours PTO for first year

• 8 Paid Holidays, with 3 floating holidays

• 401k Plan with Company Match

• Educational Assistance Program (Tuition Reimbursement)

• Wellness Program and incentives

• Company HSA contributions

• Insurance Benefits that start 1st of the month following hire

• Eligibility in Company Performance-based bonuses annually

• Additional Employee Discounts and Perks

Company-Paid Benefits:

• $75 monthly student loan repayment program

• Basic Life Insurance

• Basic Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance

• Short Term Disability

• Long Term Disability

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)

Voluntary Employee-Paid Benefits:

• Medical and Prescription insurance

• Dental insurance

• Vision insurance

• Supplemental Life Insurance Plans

• Supplemental AD&D insurance for Employee and Family

• Accident Plan

• Critical Illness Plan

• Hospital Indemnity Plan

• Pet Insurance

• Identity Theft

Reasonable accommodation statement: if you need an accommodation for any part of the application process, please email careers@ultra-us-gbs.com

Equal Opportunity Employer

Ultra Maritime is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a workplace that is fair, respectful, and inclusive, and we make employment decisions based on qualifications, merit, and business needs.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, marital status, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, citizenship status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

As a U.S. defense contractor, Ultra Maritime maintains strict standards related to integrity, compliance, and security.

We operate a drug-free workplace and, where permitted by law, may conduct pre-employment background checks and substance-abuse screening based on role requirements.

Company: Ultra Maritime

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