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Principal Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Spring, TX

Lead/Principle Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$103K - $124K/yr

JOB SUMMARY The Lead/Principal Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in planning, coordinating and managing mechanical engineering efforts for primarily natural gas transmission pipeline and ...

JOB SUMMARY The Lead/Principal Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in planning, coordinating and managing mechanical engineering efforts for primarily natural gas transmission pipeline and ...

Lead/Principle Mechanical Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site

$103K - $124K/yr

JOB SUMMARY The Lead/Principal Mechanical Engineer will play a key role in planning, coordinating and managing mechanical engineering efforts for primarily natural gas transmission pipeline and ...

Must have a knowledge base of mechanical engineering principals related to building mechanical designs * Proven experience overseeing mechanical designs, including detailed plans and specifications ...

Mechanical Engineering positions perform in alignment to expectations in the design, development, and production support areas associated with mechanical designs, validation principals, qualification ...

Showing results 21-40

Principal Mechanical Engineer information

See Spring, TX salary details

$76.5K

$129.1K

$151.7K

How much do principal mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for principal mechanical engineer in Spring, TX is $129,101.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $121,000.00 and $138,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a principal mechanical engineer?

A Principal Mechanical Engineer is a senior-level engineering professional responsible for leading mechanical design projects, overseeing teams, and ensuring technical excellence in product development. They often play a strategic role in planning, innovation, and providing expert guidance to solve complex engineering challenges. Principal Mechanical Engineers typically have significant experience, advanced technical knowledge, and are involved in mentoring junior engineers, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and ensuring projects meet safety, quality, and regulatory standards.

What types of projects and responsibilities can a principal mechanical engineer expect to handle on a typical team?

As a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will often lead multidisciplinary teams on complex projects, overseeing the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems or products. Your responsibilities commonly include setting technical direction, mentoring junior engineers, ensuring quality standards, and collaborating closely with project managers and other engineering disciplines. You may also be involved in client consultations, risk assessments, and making high-level decisions to drive innovation and efficiency. The role often requires balancing hands-on technical work with strategic planning and leadership duties.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a principal mechanical engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Principal Mechanical Engineer, you need deep expertise in mechanical design, analysis, and project management, typically supported by a bachelor's or master's degree in mechanical engineering and significant industry experience. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), FEA tools, and knowledge of relevant industry standards or certifications (like PE licensure) are essential. Leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving are crucial soft skills for guiding teams and collaborating with stakeholders. These skills ensure the successful delivery of complex engineering projects, innovation, and alignment with organizational goals.

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

AspectPrincipal Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, Professional Engineer (PE) license often preferredBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, development, and oversight of complex mechanical systems, often in leadership rolesDesign, analysis, and testing of mechanical components and systems
Industry UsageUsed across manufacturing, aerospace, automotive, and energy sectorsCommon in similar industries, often as entry to mid-level roles

The Principal Mechanical Engineer typically holds advanced credentials and leads complex projects, focusing on strategic oversight. Mechanical Engineers are more involved in hands-on design and analysis tasks. Both roles are vital in engineering teams, but the Principal Mechanical Engineer usually has more experience and responsibility.

How much does a principal mechanical engineer earn?

A principal mechanical engineer typically earns between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and industry. Senior roles often require advanced skills in CAD software, project management, and engineering design.

What does a principal mechanical engineer do?

A principal mechanical engineer leads the design, development, and testing of mechanical systems and components, often overseeing projects and providing technical guidance. They typically have advanced knowledge of engineering principles, CAD tools, and industry standards, and may coordinate teams to ensure project goals are met efficiently.

What are popular job titles related to Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs in Spring, TX?

For Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs in Spring, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs in Spring, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs in Spring, TX are:

What cities near Spring, TX are hiring for Principal Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities near Spring, TX with the most Principal Mechanical Engineer job openings:

Infographic showing various Principal Mechanical Engineer job openings in Spring, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $129,101 per year, or $62.1 per hour.

Mechanical Engineer, Principal

Audubon Companies

Houston, TX

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

Audubon is currently seeking a Part-time Mechanical Engineering Associate, Principal to join our team in our Houston, TX Office.The Mechanical Engineering Associate, Principal will perform mechanical engineering assignments associated with designing equipment, components, structures or systems.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Independently prepare advanced level specifications for project assignments detailing client performance requirements, specific component needs, design requirements, applicable design codes, and vendor drawing requirements.
  • Prepare engineering sketches, perform engineering calculations and develop analysis models for complex project assignments.
  • Review and/or approve vendor drawings for compliance with project specifications.
  • Interact and communicate effectively with clients, subcontractors, vendors and other consultants.
  • Set realistic expectations and ensure assigned projects are completed according to schedule and within budget.
  • Adhere to company quality standards and follow engineering checking and approval procedures.
  • Comply with all company and client health, safety, security and environmental (HSSE) standards as well as federal and local HSSE regulations.
  • Actively participate in company and client hazard identification and observation programs, and immediately report any unsafe acts, conditions or incidents to your supervisor.
  • Interact with drafting/design group to develop and review engineering drawings.
  • Visit job-sites to evaluate site, project requirements, and conditions.
  • Visit vendor facilities to inspect equipment for compliance with requirements/specifications.
  • Prepare inquiry and purchase requisitions as well as bid tabulations associated with equipment purchases.
  • Perform checking of engineering drawings and mathematical calculations.
  • Adhere to safe design practices, while focusing on identifying cost saving opportunities.
  • Plan and manage workload, budgets and project resources, requesting assistance as necessary.
  • Develop, review and/or approve conceptual and detailed engineering design packages.
  • Assist in the development of internal design guidelines, specifications, and design control procedures.
  • Assess feasibility of projects by assessing materials, costs and time requirements, applying knowledge and techniques of engineering and advanced mathematics.
  • Utilize complex and repetitive calculations.
  • Prepare or direct preparation and modification of reports, specifications, plans, and/or construction schedules for projects.
  • Analyze and examine different strategies, equations and applications to ensure appropriate procedures are applied and/or utilized.
  • Resolve design and development issues.
  • Manage client relationships and develop repeat business opportunities.
  • Compile discipline-specific man-hour estimates and Total Installed Cost estimates based on client provided project scope.
  • Manage and forecast man-hour requirements and schedules associated with discipline-specific project scope.
  • Assess challenges and potential risks of planned projects, including construction costs, government regulations, potential environmental hazards and other factors.
  • Undertake initiatives for risk management and appropriate steps to address it.
  • Undertake technical and feasibility studies including site investigations.
  • May lead large scope multi-discipline projects and manage day to day workflow within a group or project; may delegate assignments, distribute workload, establish work deadlines, and issue reports to immediate supervisor regarding completion of work.
  • Responsible for providing feedback to immediate supervisor regarding co-worker's performance and any work related issues, including those that might lead to disciplinary actions.
  • Provide advice and assistance on work techniques, best practices, and subject matter expertise to co-workers.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Bachelor's Degree in Engineering required.
  • Bachelor's Degree from ABET Accredited Institution preferred.
  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering preferred.
  • Engineer in Training (EIT) Certification preferred.
  • Field experience required.
  • Industry experience required.
  • Minimum of 20 years of experience preferred.
  • Large multi-discipline project lead experience preferred.
  • Caesar II, NozzlePRO and/or PIPE-FLO software experience preferred.
  • Working knowledge of the design of piping systems and process equipment preferred.
  • Working knowledge of piping, pressure vessel and equipment codes (ASME, API, etc.) preferred.
  • Ability to make decisions or take actions to solve a problem or reach a goal.
  • Ability to find a solution for or to deal proactively with work related problems.
  • Ability to comprehend instructions and request clarification as necessary.
  • Ability to work in a team-oriented environment.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with others verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to organize and direct a project to completion.
  • Ability to travel offshore to client facilities and HUET training preferred or ability to obtain HUET certification.

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