Mechanical Systems Engineer I - Groton, CT

July 2021 - Present

General Dynamics Electric Boat designs, manufactures, and maintains US Navy nuclear submarines.

My department, Overhaul & Repair, specializes in life extension of aging submarines and incidental repair. Researching, planning and supporting the execution of work on each vessel is our responsibility.

As a part of the mechanical systems team on the overhaul of the Los Angeles class USS Hartford (seen above), I perform system research, design review, and technical documentation development to instruct and support work on various systems.

These boats must abide by strict government compliance guidelines to ensure safety, silence, and functionality. Out of spec work could result in the endangerment of the 130 sailors on board. Thus, it is imperative to perform the due diligence, review the as-built state of the vessel, review the applicable standards, instruct accurate work, and quickly mitigate any issues that arise.

When planning life extension work it is important to predict future, potentially life shortening, deficiencies. This is made possible leveraging mechanical knowledge, historical maintenance/overhaul records, and a cultivated understanding of the vessel and its systems. Complex issues are common and often require eyes-on in the boat, machine shop, or otherwise.

Responsibilities:

• Design review of historical component, system arrangement, electrical layout, and installation drawings

• Provide operational support and troubleshooting assistance in collaboration with multidisciplinary team of engineers

  • Interact with stakeholders, answer questions, and develop solutions

    • Trades (welders, painters, pipe fitters, machinists, etc.)

    • Planners

    • Other technical team members

• Develop technical work documents to direct work while considering:

  • Mechanical functionality

  • Compliance

  • Safety

  • Reliability

  • On-time delivery