Mechanical Engineer – R&D

About the role

The Mechanical Engineer at Alcoa supports the development and commercialization of innovative technologies at the Alcoa Technical Center (ATC) in New Kensington, PA. This role combines mechanical design, equipment development, troubleshooting, and project execution within a fast-paced research and development environment.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a technical advisor for programs and projects, providing guidance while collaborating with cross-functional teams to achieve project objectives.
• Support the development, evaluation, and implementation of solutions that improve product performance, reliability, safety, and cost-effectiveness while reducing complexity and supporting continuous improvement initiatives.
• Drive equipment, process, and product design improvements through analysis, testing, root cause investigations, and data-driven decision-making.
• Build and maintain relationships with suppliers, fabricators, contractors, and external partners, providing oversight to ensure designs meet project deliverables.
• Ensure compliance with applicable engineering codes, industry standards, regulatory requirements, and company policies throughout all phases of project.
• Lead cross-functional problem-solving efforts and root cause analyses, facilitating consensus among stakeholders and implementing sustainable corrective actions for complex technical challenges.
• Manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment, demonstrating strong judgment, adaptability, and problem-solving skills when addressing critical and changing business needs.
• Create and maintain designs, models, and technical drawings using SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or equivalent CAD platforms, ensuring compliance with engineering standards.

Requirements

• Required Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• 4–8 years of mechanical engineering.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks or similar 3D CAD software.
• Experience managing engineering projects from concept through implementation.
• Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and problem-solving skills.
• Self-motivated, results-oriented, and able to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite.
• Willingness to learn.
• Ability to travel up to 15%.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in manufacturing, industrial, R&D, or product development environments with industrial equipment, automation, manufacturing, or materials processing.
• AutoCAD experience.
• Capital project or project engineering experience.
• Experience working with suppliers, fabricators, and contractors.
• FE/PE certification or progression toward licensure.

Skills

Competitive compensation packages, including pay-for-performance variable pay, recognition and rewards programs. 401(k), employer match up to 6%, additional employer retirement income contribution (no vesting period). Healthcare benefits: medical, Rx, dental, vision, flexible spending account, health savings account (generous employer contribution), life and accident insurance. Paid time off: 15 vacation days prorated in the 1st year based on hire date, 12 paid holidays, Care for Family leave and up to 5 bereavement days.

About the Location

The Alcoa Technical Center in New Kensington, PA, is located just north of Pittsburgh. Here, we develop new technologies with our Breakthrough Technologies team that has the potential to impact the lives of millions of people and foster the sustainable footprint from Alcoa to the world. We are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best work.