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Lead Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Downers Grove, IL ยท Hybrid

$110K - $133K/yr

Overview of YOUR role as a Lead Mechanical Engineer As a Lead Mechanical Engineer, you will lead mechanical engineering projects within the nuclear industry from proposal through design ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Cleveland, OH ยท On-site

$107K - $129K/yr

The Lead Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for working on various designs of high-performance buildings across multiple sectors, including Corporate Workplace and Commercial buildings, Federal ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Cleveland, OH

$107K - $129K/yr

The Lead Mechanical Engineer will be responsible for working on various designs of high-performance buildings across multiple sectors, including Corporate Workplace and Commercial buildings, Federal ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer Position Location: Remote - work virtually from anywhere in the United States Job Summary Positions are available in our Mission Critical Department which focuses primarily ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Clayton, MO ยท On-site

$103K - $125K/yr

Description The Lead Mechanical Engineer is a senior leadership role responsible for overseeing the mechanical engineering function for one or more processing areas within mining and minerals ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Leawood, KS

$107K - $129K/yr

Lead Mechanical Engineer About PROENERGY PROENERGY is an engineering, R amp;D, and manufacturing powerhouse. The company addresses every need for fast-start power generation: turbine and package ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Kansas City, KS ยท On-site

$106K - $128K/yr

Lead Mechanical Engineer About PROENERGY PROENERGY is an engineering, R&D, and manufacturing powerhouse. The company addresses every need for fast-start power generation: turbine and package ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Lead Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Hardware Systems Austin, Texas | On-site Opportunity Summary A venture-backed deep technology company is developing advanced hardware systems that leverage next ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Austin, TX ยท On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Lead Mechanical Engineer - Advanced Hardware Systems Austin, Texas | On-site Opportunity Summary A venture-backed deep technology company is developing advanced hardware systems that leverage next ...

Lead, Mechanical Engineer

Cincinnati, OH

$106K - $128K/yr

Lead, Mechanical Engineering Job Code: 37619 Job Location: Cincinnati, OH Job Schedule: 4/10 This is a Lead Engineer Position. It requires a leader that can staff, develop, and drive a team of both ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Framingham, MA ยท On-site

$113K - $137K/yr

Arcadis is looking for a talented and experienced Lead Mechanical Engineer with a strong understanding of the engineering lifecycle related to facility design and construction in clean room ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Monroe, NC ยท Hybrid

$102K - $123K/yr

Lead Mechanical Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Monroe, NC ยท On-site

$102K - $123K/yr

Lead Mechanical Engineer Collaborate with Innovative 3Mers Around the World Choosing where to start and grow your career has a major impact on your professional and personal life, so it's equally ...

Lead Mechanical Engineer

Torrance, CA

$114K - $138K/yr

In this position, you will lead mechanical design efforts from concept through production, improve engineering processes, and develop rugged, highly manufacturable antenna products for customers ...

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Lead Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$74K

$122.1K

$155.5K

How much do lead mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for lead mechanical engineer in the United States is $122,100.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $110,500.00 and $133,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the typical challenges a Lead Mechanical Engineer faces when managing multidisciplinary project teams?

As a Lead Mechanical Engineer, one common challenge is coordinating efforts across various engineering disciplines, such as electrical, civil, and controls, to ensure seamless project integration. This often requires balancing competing priorities, resolving technical disagreements, and maintaining clear communication among team members. Success in this role depends on strong project management skills, adaptability, and the ability to foster collaboration to keep projects on schedule and within budget.

What are Lead Mechanical Engineers?

Lead Mechanical Engineers are senior professionals responsible for overseeing the design, development, and implementation of mechanical systems and components in various projects. They manage engineering teams, coordinate project activities, and ensure technical accuracy and compliance with industry standards. In addition to technical expertise, they often handle budgeting, project scheduling, and communication with clients or stakeholders. Their leadership ensures the successful completion of mechanical engineering projects from concept to execution.

What is the difference between Lead Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectLead Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, often with experience or certifications in project managementBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentLeading projects, coordinating teams, overseeing design and developmentDesign, analysis, and testing of mechanical systems under supervision
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in engineering firms, manufacturing, and construction industries for senior rolesEntry to mid-level roles in similar industries

The main difference between a Lead Mechanical Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in leadership responsibilities and experience. The Lead Mechanical Engineer oversees projects and teams, requiring additional experience and often certifications, while the Mechanical Engineer focuses on technical tasks and design work. Both roles are essential in engineering projects, but the lead position involves more coordination and decision-making responsibilities.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Lead Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Lead Mechanical Engineer, you need advanced knowledge of mechanical engineering principles, project management experience, and a relevant engineering degree, often with a Professional Engineer (PE) license. Expertise in CAD software, finite element analysis (FEA) tools, and familiarity with industry standards are typically required. Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving abilities help you guide teams and coordinate complex projects. These competencies are essential for delivering high-quality engineering solutions, ensuring project efficiency, and maintaining safety and compliance.
More about Lead Mechanical Engineer jobs
What cities are hiring for Lead Mechanical Engineer jobs? Cities with the most Lead Mechanical Engineer job openings:
Who are the top companies hiring for Lead Mechanical Engineer jobs? The top employers for Lead Mechanical Engineer jobs are:
What states have the most Lead Mechanical Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Lead Mechanical Engineer jobs include:
Infographic showing various Lead Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 1% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $122,100 per year, or $58.7 per hour.

Lead Mechanical Engineer

RCS Staffing

Downers Grove, IL โ€ข Hybrid

$110K - $133K/yr

Other

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 days ago


Job description

Job Description RCS Staffing has an immediate need for a Lead Mechanical Engineer in Downers Grove, IL. This is a full-time direct-hire Office Based assignment with our client (on-site or hybrid - 3 days per week in office). This position offers a competitive package including significant holiday, 401(k), vacation and comprehensive health benefits.

Overview of YOUR role as a Lead Mechanical Engineer As a Lead Mechanical Engineer, you will lead mechanical engineering projects within the nuclear industry from proposal through design, implementation, and project closeout. This leadership role requires someone with 10+ years of experience managing plant modification projects, preparing engineering solutions, and leading technical discussions with utility clients. You will develop engineering solutions for plant systems, perform design modifications, prepare technical and commercial proposals, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring compliance with nuclear industry codes and standards.

As a Lead Mechanical Engineer YOU will: Lead mechanical engineering projects from proposal development through design, implementation, and closeout Perform engineering evaluations, design modifications, and plant modifications in accordance with nuclear industry codes, standards, and NRC regulations Prepare, review, and approve engineering calculations, technical reports, design packages, and engineering change documentation Develop engineering solutions for plant systems, components, and equipment, including life extension, equipment qualification, uprates, and modernization projects Interface directly with utility clients to define project scope, resolve technical issues, and present engineering recommendations Prepare technical and commercial proposals, including scope of work, cost estimates, schedules, and staffing plans Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary engineering teams including structural, civil, electrical, I&C, and licensing personnel Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior and mid-level engineers Support plant outages, field walkdowns, and equipment inspections as required Ensure all deliverables meet NRC regulations, ASME Code requirements, and client quality standards Participate in business development activities with existing and prospective nuclear utility clients YOU are the ideal Lead Mechanical Engineer candidate if you have: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering (required); Master's degree preferred Minimum of 10 years of engineering experience supporting commercial nuclear power plants (required) U.S. citizenship (required) Demonstrated experience leading plant modification projects and multidisciplinary engineering teams Strong knowledge of NRC regulations, ASME Boiler & Pressure Vessel Code, ANSI standards, and nuclear quality assurance requirements (10 CFR 50 Appendix B or NQA-1) Excellent technical writing, proposal development, and client communication skills Ability to manage multiple projects while maintaining high technical quality and meeting schedules Proficiency with Microsoft, CAD, Adobe, and Gothic computer system platforms It's a BONUS if you have: Professional Engineer (P.E.) license Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering Extensive commercial nuclear power plant experience Experience with plant life extension and modernization projects Track record of successful business development with utility clients Advanced technical certifications or training in nuclear systems About Our CLIENT Our client is a leading engineering firm specializing in mechanical engineering solutions for the commercial nuclear power industry. They provide comprehensive services including plant modifications, equipment qualification, design solutions, and technical consulting for utility clients

With a focus on technical excellence, regulatory compliance, and long-term client relationships, they provide an environment in Downers Grove, IL where mechanical engineers can lead meaningful nuclear infrastructure projects while managing technical teams and contributing to power generation innovation. Who WE Are RCS Staffing is a certified Women-Owned Small Business (WOSB) specializing in the recruitment of professionals for best-of-class companies throughout the United States. Since 1994, RCS recruits top talent for direct hire, temp-to-perm and contract staffing positions and provides customized payroll services.

Our Recruiting Specialties consist of all Engineering Disciplines, Project Management, Project Controls, Information Technology, Energy Efficiency and Business Professionals. RCS is an equal opportunity employer that prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type. RCS recruits, hires, and promotes for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, citizenship status, disability, military status, veteran status, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, sex, genetic information or age.

All terms and conditions of employment such as compensation, benefits, work assignment, availability of facilities and privileges of employment are administered on the same basis of equality.


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About RCS Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

201 - 500 Employees

Headquarters location

Charlotte, NC, US

Year founded

1994