Mechanical Engineer 3
Date: Nov 4, 2026
Location: Decatur, AL, US, 35601
Company: United Launch Alliance
Requisition ID: 2307
Location: ULA - Decatur
Relocation: Yes- Relocation may be available
Travel Requirements: 10%
At ULA, success comes through the efforts of a strong, united team.
Thanks for your interest in United Launch Alliance, the world's most experienced and reliable space launch company! Successfully launching more than 155 consecutive missions with 100% mission success doesn't happen by accident. It's a testament to the commitment and dedication of our team of rocket scientists and support employees combined with the systems and processes we use to pull them together. As a ULA employee, you'll have the opportunity to grow in your career while working in a team-oriented culture that combines technology, innovation, ingenuity and a commitment to the extraordinary. Whether you are in college just launching your career, or, have experience and want to come work with the best rocket team in the world, our unshakable unity yields stronger solutions and better results as we carry out our mission to save lives, explore the universe, and connect the world. Our team is excited to meet you!
Job Overview & Responsibilities
• Translate production requirements into practical tool concepts and fully engineered solutions.
• Create 3D models, 2D drawings, and engineering documentation in accordance with GD&T and company standards.
• Perform basic stress, tolerance, and fit/function analyses to ensure tool integrity and safety.
• Coordinate with internal and external fabrication teams, providing clear specifications and technical support.
• Conduct tool validation activities, including functional checks, load testing, safety reviews, and release documentation.
• Troubleshoot tooling issues on the shop floor, implement corrective actions, and support production needs.
• Manage tooling projects with minimal supervision, including schedule, cost, risk, and change management.
• Ensure compliance with OSHA, ASME, and internal safety requirements for all tooling designs and modifications.
• Support continuous improvement efforts by identifying opportunities to optimize tool performance, ergonomics, and production flow.
• Maintain configuration control, documentation accuracy, and engineering release quality.
• Collaborate across engineering, quality, and manufacturing teams to resolve design conflicts and improve build processes.
Required Education
Bachelor
Required Years of Experience
Minimum of 4 years of related work experience
Basic Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum 4 years of engineering experience (with significant tooling/fixtures emphasis).
• Proficiency in 3D CAD modeling and drafting (e.g., Creo, NX, SolidWorks, CATIA).
• Experience developing manufacturing tooling such as jigs, fixtures, lifting devices, machining/assembly tools, or automation tooling.
• Understanding of GD&T, engineering drawings, tolerancing, and industry standards.
• Ability to perform basic structural, tolerance, and fit/function analyses for tooling designs.
• Experience working within a production environment supporting manufacturing, quality, and operations.
• Ability to generate technical documentation, tool specifications, and release engineering deliverables.
• Demonstrated project ownership and ability to independently manage tooling projects from concept to implementation.
• Strong problem‑solving skills and ability to troubleshoot tool performance or production issues.
• Effective communication skills for cross‑functional collaboration with engineering, suppliers, and shop personnel.
Preferred Qualifications
• 4 years of tooling engineering experience supporting production, fabrication, or assembly operations.
• Advanced proficiency with 3D CAD and PLM systems (Creo, NX, SolidWorks, CATIA, Teamcenter, Windchill).
• Experience with FEA tools for basic structural validation (e.g., ANSYS, Creo Simulate).
• Background in design and commissioning of automated, robotic, or ergonomic tooling solutions.
• Proven experience supporting tool fabrication, vendor management, and cost/schedule oversight.
• Knowledge of machining processes, weldments, composites, or precision assembly.
• Experience developing lifting devices, below‑the‑hook tools, and working with OSHA/ASME safety standards.
• Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing, Six Sigma, DFMA, or continuous-improvement methodologies.
• Demonstrated ability to lead small engineering projects or mentor junior engineers.
• Strong troubleshooting skills for resolving tool performance issues on the shop floor.
• Experience with tolerance stack‑ups, root‑cause analysis, and corrective‑action development.
What makes ULA different?
Because we understand launch success comes through the collective efforts of a team, we seek the best to join us. We value ethics, ingenuity, engagement and professional development for employees at all levels.
We offer our employees competitive pay and benefits including:
- 401(k) match plus an additional employer contribution
- Discretionary annual incentive bonus for eligible employees
- Generous paid time off
- Flexible work environments
Additionally, most salaried ULA team members work a "9/80 schedule," meaning they enjoy every other Friday off.
Benefits and work schedules may vary for union-represented hourly positions and are described in the applicable collective bargaining agreement.
Security Clearance / International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR). This position requires use of information which is subject to the International Traffic In Arms Regulations (ITAR). Therefore, all applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined in ITAR 22 CFR 120.62 (e.g., U.S. Citizen, Lawful Permanent Resident (Green Card holder) or protected individual. See 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(20) and 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3) for additional information).
ULA is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.
ULA is a participant in the federal E-Verify Program. Posters in PDF format pertaining to this program can be accessed by clicking on the links identified below. E-Verify Participation poster (English / Spanish) and Right to Work Poster (English / Spanish).
Colorado Equal Pay for Equal Work Act requires covered employees to follow a post selection notification process. A hired candidate may opt out of this process by notifying the hiring manager in writing at the time the offer is accepted.
Nearest Major Market: Decatur