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Research and Development Engineer - Mechanical

Penn State University
Penn State University Park, United States, United Statesfull_timeVerifiedPosted 23 Jul 2026
💰 $231,000/yr($121,704/yr$231,000/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 Mechanical Engineers to join the Mechanical Systems Design Department within the Engineering Systems Research and Development Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This role will design, analyze, build, and test hardware for undersea applications from concept to development and through transition using a board scope of Division technical expertise in core engineering disciplines. The worked performed in this position directly supports the development, fabrication, assembly, integration and testing of hardware and software systems in support of undersea applications supporting the United States Armed Forces and other government agencies. 

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

You Will:

  • Analyze requirements, identify problems, and develop innovative solution concepts

  • Design structures, mechanisms, actuation systems, and bearing systems

  • Work with the design and drafting department to create and approve drawings

  • Develop assembly and test procedures

  • Work with technicians to perform assembly and testing of systems and subsystems

  • Support field testing

Additional responsibilities for higher-level position includes:

  • Plan and perform technical tasks of a larger scope and lead teams within the project scope

  • Manage projects of moderate size and scope; plan, schedule, conduct, or coordinate detailed phases of the work

  • Mentor junior engineers in the development of technical and project skills

Required Skills/Experience areas include:

  • Design of complex machined components and subsystems

  • 3D CAD design and engineering drawing development

  • Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings

  • Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T ANSI Y14.5)

  • Proficiency in completing free body diagrams; using hand calculations to calculate forces and resultant stresses on structures

  • Packaging of complex electromechanical assemblies

  • Development of test plans and procedures

  • Success in environments where various forms of communication and organizational s

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Company

Penn State University

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