Mechanical Engineer - Rotating Equipment

Mechanical Engineer - Rotating Equipment
Engineer II
ADV000CNA
NASA Johnson Space Center
Houston, Texas

HX5 is an award-winning provider of engineering, research and development, and technical services to clients such as NASA and the Department of Defense. Founded in 2004, HX5 is a fast-growing veteran- and woman-owned company with locations nationwide.

HX5 is currently seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join the team with NASA at Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, TX.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

The Mechanical Engineer - Rotating Equipment will:

• Lead all reliability and lifecycle activities for critical rotating assets, high-vacuum systems, and complex pumping architectures.
• Develop detailed engineering calculations, technical specifications, and procurement packages for pumps, compressors, mechanical seals, bearings, and vacuum components.
• Act as the primary technical lead for real-time troubleshooting of mechanical failures, vibration issues, and performance degradation in rotating systems.
• Conduct formal Root Cause Analysis (RCA) on equipment failures reports and implement data-driven corrective and preventive action plans.
• Review, update, and interpret P&IDs, isometric drawings, and mechanical schematics to maintain strict configuration control.
• Oversee the design, installation, commissioning, and long-term maintenance of mechanical systems to ensure peak operational readiness.
• Partner with Systems Engineering, Human Factors, and maintenance teams during collaborative drafting sessions for
  facility upgrades and HITL test plans.
• Provide hands-on technical guidance and training to maintenance and operations personnel to improve system-specific
  knowledge and reduce manual errors.
• Participate in hazard reviews, design assessments, and reliability audits to ensure all equipment meets applicable codes
  (ASME, ANSI) and safety standards.
• Coordinate directly with vendors and contractors to resolve technical discrepancies and ensure high-quality delivery of
  specialized mechanical components.
• Maintain configuration management control and documentation throughout project and lifecycle phases
• Support procurement of mechanical components, including pumps, compressors, seals, bearings, and vacuum
  equipment.

Education and Experience

• Typically requires a bachelor's degree in engineering and a minimum of 2- 5 years of experience in the field or in a
  related area.
• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or Mechanical Engineering Technology.
• Minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in mechanical design, reliability engineering, or rotating equipment
  maintenance.
• Demonstrated background in the selection, operation, and maintenance of high-performance rotating assets, including
  centrifugal/positive displacement pumps, compressors, blowers, and turbines.
• Hands-on experience with industrial vacuum systems (roughing and high-vacuum) and complex pumping architectures.
• High proficiency in developing, reviewing, and interpreting P&IDs, mechanical schematics, and isometric drawings to
  maintain configuration control.
• Proven track record of performing Root Cause Analysis and Failure Mode and Effects Analysis to drive measurable
  reliability improvements.
• Strong understanding of critical mechanical components, including mechanical seals, precision bearings, couplings, and
  advanced lubrication systems.
• Ability to provide real-time technical support in a fast-paced operational environment, bridging the gap between
  engineering design and field maintenance.
• Excellent documentation skills and the ability to lead collaborative sessions with cross-functional teams (Systems Engineering, Human Factors, and Operations).
  

Preferences:

• Professional familiarity with ASME and ANSI mechanical standards and their application in high-reliability environments.
• Experience utilizing condition monitoring tools, including vibration analysis, thermography, and oil analysis, to drive
  proactive maintenance strategies.
• Direct experience with cryogenic systems or complex low-pressure vacuum architectures.
• Proven background supporting high-stakes operations in industrial, chemical, energy, or research facilities.
• Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., Inventor, AutoCAD, CREO) and engineering simulation tools.

Position Type/Expected Hours of Work:

This is a full-time onsite position and offers a 9/80 work schedule (every other Friday off).

Work Environment:

• Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on task.
• Equipment and Machines - Standard office equipment (PC, telephone, printer, etc.).

Physical Requirements:

• Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of time).
• May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of time).

Other Position Requirements:

• Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency may be a requirement for this position.
  
• Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
• Regular attendance in accordance with established work schedule is critical. Ability to work outside normal schedule and
  adjust schedule to meet peak periods and surge requirements.

HX5 offers a competitive salary and benefits package to include:

• Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
• 401(k) plan with Company Match
• Paid Holidays
• Paid Time Off
• Parental Leave
• Life Insurance
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
• Pet Insurance

HX5, LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer that recruits and hires qualified candidates without regard to race, religion, sex, age, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, disability, or veteran status.

HX5, LLC is a Drug Free Workplace Employer.

ACCESSIBILITY NOTICE: If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process due to a physical or mental disability, please call (850) 362-6551.

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CJ