Robotics Engineer

About the Company

Carnegie Mellon University's National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) is a leading applied robotics organization focused on developing and deploying sophisticated robotic technologies for real-world applications. NREC operates at the intersection of academic research and commercial production, creating custom robotic systems for industries including agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and other advanced technology sectors.

With more than 30 years of robotics innovation and a multidisciplinary team of engineers and technicians, NREC provides an environment where technical creativity, hands-on engineering, and collaborative problem-solving drive meaningful results.

About the Role

NREC is seeking a versatile Robotics Engineer / Mechatronics Engineer with a strong focus on mechanical design, rapid prototyping, fabrication, and hands-on system integration.

This role offers ownership across the complete engineering lifecycle—from brainstorming and CAD modeling through fabrication, assembly, wiring, testing, and hardware debugging. The ideal candidate is comfortable working with ambiguity, evaluating technical trade-offs, and building practical solutions quickly while applying engineering rigor when required.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical architecture and detailed design for custom robotic systems, end-effectors, and specialized enclosures.
• Develop prototypes using 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, and traditional fabrication techniques.
• Assemble mechanical systems and create reliable electrical wiring and wire harnesses.
• Support hardware bring-up, system integration, and testing.
• Use tools such as multimeters and oscilloscopes to diagnose basic electronic and hardware issues.
• Investigate ambiguous technical requirements, identify constraints, and communicate engineering trade-offs.
• Develop and test robotic systems from initial concepts through physical implementation.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams and project stakeholders.
• Contribute to projects involving machine vision, edge computing, sensors, robotics software, and system integration.
• Support real-world deployment of robotic technologies across diverse industries.

Qualifications

Basic Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, Robotics, or a related engineering field, or equivalent experience.
• 1–3 years of engineering experience, while candidates with varying levels of experience may be considered.
• Strong proficiency with 3D CAD software such as SolidWorks, Fusion 360, or Onshape.
• Demonstrated portfolio of physical hardware projects personally designed and built.
• Strong understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and custom fabrication.
• Practical experience with mechanical assembly, hand tools, structural fits, and tolerances.
• Functional electronics knowledge, including reading schematics, soldering, wiring harness fabrication, and basic electrical troubleshooting.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in an environment involving complex and ambiguous engineering challenges.
• Successful completion of a pre-employment background check.
• Portfolio, website, or GitHub link showcasing relevant physical hardware projects is required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with machine vision and edge computing integration.
• Hands-on experience with I2C, SPI, and CAN sensor protocols.
• Experience with microcontrollers and robotics programming using C++, Python, or ROS.
• Experience integrating mechanical, electrical, computing, and sensor systems.
• Strong understanding of rapid prototyping and custom robotic fabrication.
• High autonomy and a collaborative, low-ego approach to problem-solving.
• Ability to balance rapid proof-of-concept development with appropriate engineering rigor.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to work proactively with engineers, stakeholders, and multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience working on robotics projects involving industrial, commercial, government, or defense applications.

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions.
• Tuition benefits and professional development opportunities.
• Paid time off and observed holidays.
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance.
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass.
• Family Concierge Team support for childcare needs.
• Fitness center access.
• Opportunities to work alongside leading robotics professionals.
• Career growth opportunities through technical leadership, project management, mentorship, and specialized engineering pathways.
• Opportunities to contribute to innovative projects across agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and other sectors.

This position may involve projects associated with military or defense applications and/or funded by military or defense sponsors.