Research and Development Engineer - Mechanical

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 broad scope of Division technical expertise in core engineering disciplines. The work performed in this position directly supports the development, fabrication, assembly, integration, and testing of hardware and software systems in support of undersea applications for the United States Armed Forces and other government agencies. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

About the role

Your working location will be fully on-site in State College, PA. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations.

Responsibilities

• 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 positions include:

• 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

Requirements

• 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 skills were crucial to be effective
• 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
• U.S. citizenship

Qualifications

If filled as R&D Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• 14+ years of relevant experience

If filled as R&D Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• 5+ years of relevant experience

Preferred Skills

• Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
• Siemens NX 3D modeling
• Structural or thermal finite element analysis

Pay

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $121,704.00 - $231,000.00.

Benefits

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. Benefits include:

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Robust retirement plans
• Substantial paid time off, including holidays, vacation, and sick time
• Generous 75% tuition discount for employees, eligible spouses, and children