Mechanical Structural Engineer

We are seeking highly motivated Mechanical Engineers with strong structural analysis expertise to join our Energy Science and Power Systems Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State.

About the role

• Support our national security and undersea warfare sponsors through the development and demonstration of science and technology with the expertise, tools, and processes to take concepts from the early developmental phase through transition to industry and the fleet.
  • ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis using analytical methods and FEA tools to evaluate mechanical components, assemblies, and systems.
• Develop, validate, and improve mechanical designs from concept through production.
• Collaborate with research and development, manufacturing, and testing teams to resolve structural or mechanical challenges.
• Support prototype builds, design reviews, and design-for-manufacturing (DFM) activities.
• Identify opportunities for performance improvement, weight reduction, cost reduction, and increased reliability.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
• A solid understanding of finite element analysis (FEA) principles, and analytical tools used in structural analysis and effectively communicate theories and results to colleagues, management, and sponsors, in both written and presentation format.
• Structural analysis and mechanical design principles.
• Finite Element Analysis (ANSYS, Abaqus, SolidWorks Simulation, etc.).
• CAD software (Unigraphics, Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Creo, or similar).
• Ability to express ideas successfully to drive understanding.
• Past success in writing white papers or reports.
• Excellent problem solving skills.

Preferred Skills/Experience

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline.
• Dynamic, thermal, or fatigue analysis of complex engineering systems.
• Knowledge of material selection, manufacturing processes, and GD&T.
• Familiarity with testing and validation methods for structural components.

Skills

• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required.

Qualifications

• Your working location will be located fully on-site located in State College, PA.
• If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Advanced Professional, this position requires:
• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• 5+ years of relevant experience
• Required Certifications: None
• If filled as Research and Development Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires:
• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• 2+ years of relevant experience
• Required Certifications: None

Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $105,900.00 - $173,844.00. Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.

For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

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FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu.