Materials Testing Engineer

The Pennsylvania State University; University Park (PA, TX); On-site; USD 76,000 - 116,000; Full time

Job summary

An established research institution is looking for a Research and Development Engineer to join their Polymer Composite Manufacturing team. This role involves hands-on testing and analysis of innovative materials and structures, supporting critical national defense projects. The ideal candidate will have a solid mechanical engineering background and experience with CAD software. Opportunities to collaborate with a talented team and contribute to groundbreaking research await you. If you are passionate about engineering and want to make a significant impact in defense science, this position offers a unique chance to grow and excel in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Solid mechanical engineering background required.
• Fundamental knowledge of micro-mechanical design using 3D solid modeling software.

Responsibilities

• Assist with scheduling testing and executing trials for development.
• Utilize CAD tools to create and model mechanical designs.

Skills

Mechanical Engineering

3D Solid Modeling Software

Creativity

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

NX

SolidWorks

Abaqus

Python

MATLAB

Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:

• CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not previously employed at the university) seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Do not apply here; apply internally through Workday.
• If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

We are seeking a Research and Development Engineer with mechanical and materials engineering knowledge to join the Polymer Composite Manufacturing team in the Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State. This role involves testing structures and systems, analyzing data, with a focus on multi-material assemblies, including fiber-reinforced polymer composite structures. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with our R&D team to develop solutions and present analytical results. ARL at Penn State is dedicated to developing innovative solutions for complex national problems, primarily supporting the U.S. Navy, Department of Defense, and Intel communities.

As an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner, we welcome applications from transitioning military members.

You will:

• Assist with scheduling testing, tracking, and executing static and dynamic trials to support development and demonstration of emergent metal, composite, and hybrid components and systems.
• Contribute to the fabrication of test hardware and fixtures, and testing activities.
• Utilize CAD and other engineering tools to create and model mechanical designs.
• Collaborate with fellow engineers to develop innovative solutions.
• Contribute to proposals, reports, and presentations supporting projects and tasks.

Minimally, a Bachelor's degree in an Engineering or science discipline is required.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Solid mechanical engineering background.
• Fundamental knowledge of micro-mechanical design using 3D solid modeling software (e.g., NX, SolidWorks).
• Creativity, good decision-making, excellent communication skills, ability to meet schedules, and work effectively in a team.
• Ability to work both independently and as a team leader.

Preferred Skills and Experience:

• Abaqus, Python, MATLAB.
• Knowledge of composite materials and corrosion.
• Familiarity with fatigue or lifecycle assessment methodologies.

Candidates must submit a resume. The selected candidate will undergo a government security investigation and must be a U.S. citizen. Employment requires successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

ARL at Penn State is part of a leading research university, serving as a center of excellence in defense science, systems, and technologies, focusing on naval missions and related areas.

For more information, visit www.arl.psu.edu.

Note: The salary range may be impacted by geographic location. The salary range for this position is $76,700 - $115,100.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS:

Penn State publishes an annual security and fire safety report in compliance with federal law, available here. Employment requires background checks in accordance with university policies.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer, committed to diversity and inclusion. For accommodations due to disability, contact 814-865-1473.