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PRINCIPAL ENGINEER - STAFF ENGINEER - Marine Structures & Pressure Vessels

Southwest Research Institute

  • San Antonio, TX
  • 2 days ago
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    Skills

    • Analysis Skillsunmatched
    • Business Developmentunmatched
    • Change Managementunmatched
    • Commissioningunmatched
    • Cross-Functionalunmatched
    • Design Servicesunmatched
    • Documentationunmatched
    • Driver's Licenseunmatched
    • Editingunmatched
    • Establish Prioritiesunmatched
    • Finite Element Analysisunmatched
    • Follow Throughunmatched
    • Governmentunmatched
    • Industry Standardsunmatched
    • Leadershipunmatched
    • Maintain Complianceunmatched
    • Marine Engineeringunmatched
    • Materials Analysisunmatched
    • Mechanical Engineeringunmatched
    • Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA)unmatched
    • Network Architecture/Engineeringunmatched
    • People Managementunmatched
    • Pressure Vesselsunmatched
    • Project/Program Managementunmatched
    • Regulationsunmatched
    • Research & Development (R&D)unmatched
    • Technical Drawingunmatched
    • Technical Presentationunmatched
    • Technical Writingunmatched

    Description

    Who We Are:

    The Marine Structures & Engineering Section delivers R&D engineering services for commercial and government clients, specializing in the design, analysis, fabrication, and commissioning of pressure vessels.

    Objectives of this Role:
    • This chief engineer–level role will guide a multidisciplinary team (10+) across the full lifecycle—from concept through fabrication and certification—on complex, multi-million dollar programs.
    • Offers a rare opportunity to combine deep technical authority, hands-on engineering, work closely with clients, fabrication teams, and regulatory bodies to deliver high consequence hardware.
    • Serve as the technical authority for pressure vessel systems, ensuring designs meet requirements for quality, performance, and certifiability.
    • Ensure compliance with applicable codes, standards, and project requirements (e.g., ASME BPVC, PVHO, NAVSEA P-9290).
    • Provide expert guidance on fabrication processes, inspection methods, and material selection for demanding marine environments.
    • Approve and oversee technical documentation including drawings, material specifications, analysis reports, and fabrication plans.
    • Contribute to business development efforts through client engagement, technical presentations, and concept development.
    Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
    • Interface with project managers and team members to identify, plan, and execute project objectives. Provide input and co-design efforts for structures, mechanisms, and pressure chambers.
    • Conduct and lead design reviews, ensuring engineering rigor and alignment with requirements and standards.
    • Regularly communicate status and assist project management in prioritizing activities.
    • Execute quality program objectives to meet internal, project-specific, and/or industry standards. This may include generation of new or editing of existing documentation.
    • Ensure proper change management is followed through monitoring of activities of various teams or systems. Communicate changes regularly with engineering staff and project management.
    Requirements:
    • Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Marine Engineering, Naval Architecture Engineering, Ocean Engineering or related engineering degree with directly related experience.
    • 15+ years: Expertise in design, analysis, and fabrication of pressure vessel or elements for marine/sub-surface structural systems in demanding environments.
    • 5+ years: Leadership and supervisory experience including training of individuals.
    • Experience in finite element analysis for complex or combined pressure loading scenarios, additional mechanism design experience preferred.
    • Proficiency in fabrication and inspection methods for high-strength steels, advanced metallic alloys, and non-metallics for marine environments.
    • P.E. preferred.
    • A valid/clear driver's license is required.

    Numbers & Facts

    LocationSan Antonio, TX
    IndustryEngineering Services
    Company Size2,000 to 2,499 employees
    Year Founded1947
    Websitehttp://www.swri.org/

    Benefits

    Paid Sick Days, Parking, Professional Development, Employee Referral Program, Flexible Spending Accounts, Employee Events, Retirement / Pension Plans, Tuition Reimbursement, Health Care on Site, Merchandise Discounts, Military Leave, On Site Cafeteria

    About Company

    We are R&D problem solvers providing independent, premier services to government and industry clients. Our multidisciplinary nature allows us to rapidly assemble diverse teams to tackle problems from multiple directions. We push the boundaries of science and technology to develop innovative solutions that advance the state of the art and improve human health and safety. Operating as a nonprofit since our 1947 inception, we work in the public’s best interest and toward the betterment of mankind.  At SwRI, we tirelessly pursue innovation and excellence in science and technology for the betterment of humankind. We support work on nearly 4,000 client projects at any given time through a wide range of technical competencies with 2,574 staff members in nine technical divisions. Client services include, but are not limited to, Automotive and Transportation, Biomedical & Health, Chemistry & Materials, Computers and Electronics, Defense & Security, Earth & Space, Energy & Environment, and Manufacturing & Construction. 

    TECHNICAL DIVISIONS

    • Applied Physics-Developing advanced electronic and microelectronic devices, power supplies, voice and data communication systems, robot test services, and payloads
    • Applied Power-Using physical science research and applied engineering to produce sensors, instruments, and hardware used worldwide.
    • Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses-Resolving technical and regulatory issues related to a potential geologic repository for spent nuclear fule and high-level radioactive waste.
    • Chemistry and Chemical Engineering-Performing research and technical services using chemistry and chemical engineering technology.
    • Defense and & Intelligence Solutions-Providing advanced direction finding and tracking systems through geolocation system development.
    • Fuels and Lubricants Research-Performing fuels and lubricants research activities to meet regulatory and competitive goals.
    • Intelligent Systems-Providing engineering services in resaerch and development of complex systems and equipment.
    • Mechanical Engineering-Improving safety, reliability, efficiency and life of new or existing mechanical components or systems.
    • Powertrain Engineering-Designing and developing vehicle and engine components to achieve performance and emissions goals.
    • Space Science & Engineering-Developing and managing advanced scientific payloads aboard satellites and sounding rockets.

    PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

    Innovation in science and technology has been a hallmark of Southwest Research Institute since its earliest days. It's no exaggeration to say we are committed to advancing science and applying technology to benefit government, industry, and all humankind. That is our mission. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach allows us to successfully solve clients' most challenging problems. Today, we are a leader among independent, nonprofit research and development organizations. Our staff of 2,574 scientists, engineers, analysts, and support staff members continues to accomplish outstanding fundamental and applied engineering and research for clients from diverse segments of government and industry. Adam L. Hamilton, P.E, President and CEO

    IN THE COMMUNITY
    Our staff is expert at developing solutions that help build a better tomorrow today; and that practical, innovative spirit carries through to our community interactions. Staff members generously donate time and outher resources to support food drives, blood drives, and other
    outreach programs. 
    HONORS AND AWARDS
    Southwest Research Institute has earned 43 R&D 100 awards since 1971. Each year R&D Magazine recognizes developments regarded as among the 100 most significant technical accomplishments. The Chicago Tribune dubbed the program "the Oscars of Invention". 

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