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Principal Mechanical Engineer

Job DescriptionJob DescriptionSalary: 120K-160K DOE

Principal Mechanical Engineer


Columbia Energy and Environmental Services is an established small business headquartered in Richland, WA. We offer full-service engineering, design, fabrication, instrumentation and controls, testing, and technology development. Columbia Energy currently has an opening for a Principal Mechanical Engineer interested in advancing their career with opportunities to serve as technical leads, project engineers, and mentors to project teams. Veterans are strongly encouraged to apply!

Job Responsibilities/Duties:

  • Lead multi-disciplinary project teams in the development and execution of complex design/build/test projects, ensuring alignment with project goals, timelines, and budgets.
  • Provide strategic technical leadership, fostering collaboration among engineers, designers, and shop staff to deliver innovative solutions for nuclear and hazardous waste remediation, chemical processing, and nuclear ventilation systems.
  • Collaborate closely with fabrication teams to ensure designs are manufacturable and optimized for production, leveraging hands-on experience with fabrication processes and techniques.
  • Conduct design analysis and reviews to ensure compliance with industry standards and codes (e.g., ASME B31.3, ASME B&PV, ASME AG-1, etc.).
  • Develop and oversee test plans and procedures, supporting system testing and troubleshooting as needed.
  • Maintain configuration control of baseline drawings and documents while ensuring high-quality design deliverables.
  • Act as a mentor and resource for junior engineers and designers, promoting professional growth and technical excellence.
  • Communicate effectively with project stakeholders, providing clear updates on task status, progress, and technical challenges.
  • Support continuous improvement initiatives in design and fabrication processes to enhance efficiency and quality.

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelors degree or higher from an ABET-accredited university.
  • 15+ years of demonstrated experience in mechanical engineering design, adhering to industry standards.
  • Proven experience leading and managing project teams, including coordination across disciplines and ensuring successful project execution.
  • Extensive experience in preparing design deliverables, resolving technical review comments, and finalizing design packages.
  • Strong attention to detail and ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
  • Self-motivated with a focus on meeting project needs and delivery schedules.

Qualifications:

  • PE License.
  • DOE experience.
  • Hands-on experience with fabrication processes, including providing design input to optimize manufacturability and troubleshooting during production.
  • Experience working at nuclear facilities or within Navy Nuclear Power systems.
  • Willingness to embrace new challenges and contribute to the growth and development of project teams.

Working Conditions:

This position is performed in an office environment with occasional visits to the companys Fabrication Shop for testing and guidance to shop staff.

Equal Opportunity Statement:
Columbia Energy is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to , , , , , , , , protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal and state law.


Principal Mechanical Engineer

Richland, WA
Full time

Published on 07/08/2025

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