Senior Mechanical Engineer - NREC

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), engineers and technicians drive breakthroughs that define success. The technical staff collaborates closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions addressing complex challenges in industrial, commercial, and government sectors. Each project benefits from expertise, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving, fueling progress and innovation. As part of the team, you will work alongside world-class robotics professionals committed to pushing technological boundaries and transforming ideas into real-world solutions. The environment fosters professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering flexibility to sharpen skills, lead impactful projects, and take control of career development.

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead and contribute to robot design, fabrication, assembly, and testing, applying solid mechanical engineering principles and practices. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, innovative setting and will be instrumental in advancing the design of groundbreaking robotics systems while ensuring exceptional results.

Responsibilities

• Perform research, design, development, and testing of electromechanical systems for robotic applications
• Apply the engineering design process from conceptualization to prototype development and validation
• Perform modeling, analysis, and simulation of electromechanical systems
• Lead design efforts for electromechanical subsystems
• Support junior engineers
• Develop CAD models and drawings of electromechanical assemblies and systems
• Perform light fabrication, subsystem assembly, and integration of subsystems
• Formulate and perform electromechanical system tests
• Document analyses, design, and build test reports
• Travel to support field experiments and off-site test programs
• Other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate degree in engineering or a related field, or equivalent experience of more than 6 years in engineering
• Experience with developing complex mechanical systems
• Experience with technical writing
• Effective organizational, planning, project management, public speaking, and analytical skills
• Independent judgment and problem-solving abilities
• 3D modeling experience (SolidWorks preferred)
• Ability to effectively interact with a multifaceted population of internal and external partners
• Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously
• Successful pre-employment background check
• Work on projects involving military/defense applications or funding

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with Finite Element Analysis using ANSYS and/or SolidWorks Simulation
• Experience with manufacturing using modern methods including CNC mill and lathe, CNC press brakes, laser cutters, and 3D printers
• Gear design experience
• Hydraulic system design experience
• Experience with structural design and analysis
• Experience specifying/selecting electrical components (motors, sensors, etc.) for robotic systems
• Knowledge of electrical circuit design
• Experience with programming for prototype development (Python, Arduino, etc.)
• Knowledge of technical project management and systems engineering

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous retirement savings program with employer contributions
• Tuition benefits
• Ample paid time off and observed holidays
• Life and accidental death and disability insurance
• Free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass
• Access to Family Concierge Team for childcare navigation
• Fitness center access

About NREC

• Located in Pittsburgh, known as “Roboburgh,” a hub for over 120+ robotics companies
• 30+ years of pioneering robotics research
• 150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world impact
• Part of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute, a global leader in robotics
• Leads educational outreach through the Robotics Academy, developing curricula and software for K–12 and college-level students

This full-time, regular staff position is based in Pittsburgh, PA.