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Mechanical Research and Development Engineer

Penn State University
University Park, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 13 Jul 2026
💰 $137,280/yr($81,312/yr$137,280/yr)

About the role

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location. For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

 

 

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are searching for a Mechanical Research and Development Engineer to join the Expeditionary Manufacturing and Repair Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. We are seeking individuals with knowledge across a range of competencies including Design and Analysis, Model and Simulation, Process Development and Optimization, and Characterization and Testing. The successful candidate will support research and development of new materials, innovative material system designs, and novel fabrication and testing methods covering a wide range of material systems including ceramics, metallics, and ceramic/metal matrix composites.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

  • Provide input to and assist with sample production as well as Cold Spray process support equipment setup, design and assembly

  • Perform fabrication/machining/characterization/mechanical testing of materials in support of projects

  • Meet with faculty and staff engineers to define the scope of task requirements and schedule constraints, communicate with engineers and project managers to provide progress reports and facilitate the identification of resources needed to accomplish the task/project

  • Perform daily specimen and coupon fabrication operations and fabrication of facility and test equipment

  • Document process parameters and processes

  • Operate and maintain Cold Spray, Cold Spray Additive Manufacturing and Wire Arc Direct Energy Deposition systems which include both stationary and portable robotics

  • Inspect, test, and calibrate equipment as directed

  • Perform facility maintenance and repair of capital and test equipment in support of various projects

  • Assist senior technical/engineering staff in gathering, compiling, and archiving test data in the laboratory or in the field

  • Develop documentation of task procedures and process evaluation

Required Skills/Experience areas include:

  • Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, Science, or Engineering Technology Discipline and 4+ years related experience

  • Strong foundation in machining including CNC and Manual Machinin

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Company

Penn State University

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