Mechanical Engineer - NREC

Carnegie Mellon University; False Pass (AK); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University''s National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) seeks an Electrical Engineer to contribute to robot design, fabrication, assembly, and testing. You will apply electrical engineering principles to develop circuits, sensors, and power systems across diverse projects in industry, defense, and research.

The role calls for hands-on circuit prototyping, PCB layout, document analysis, and collaboration with interdisciplinary teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field or equivalent experience.
• 3-5 years of related engineering experience.
• Proven track record of developing electrical circuits and electrical systems.
• Circuit design software experience (Altium preferred).
• Effective organizational, planning, and analytical skills.
• Independent judgment and problem‑solving abilities.
• Ability to interact with a diverse set of internal and external partners.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

Responsibilities

• Research, identify and test relevant circuits and sensors.
• Find new sensors and ICs relevant to implementing and improving designs.
• Perform PCB board design, schematic and layout.
• Perform circuit prototyping, PCB assembly and rework.
• Generate wiring diagrams.
• Source and procure electronic components and lab supplies.
• Participate in hardware design process design, reviews, and testing.
• Perform light fabrication of prototype parts for robots.
• Assemble and test mechanical and electrical/electronic assemblies.
• Document analysis, design, and test results.
• Work with interdisciplinary teams to determine comprehensive solutions.
• Travel to support field experiments in the field.
• Other duties as assigned.

Education

Bachelor's degree in engineering or related field

Tools

Altium

Python

C

C++

Matlab

PCB design

Job description

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), it is our engineers and technicians who drive the breakthroughs that define our success. The members of our technical staff collaborate closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions that address complex challenges in industrial, commercial and government sectors. Each project benefits from their expertise, creativity, and hands‑on problem‑solving, fueling progress and innovation across the organization.

As part of our dedicated team, you will work alongside world‑class robotics professionals committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and redefining ideas into solutions for real‑world applications. We foster a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible and encouraging environment where you can sharpen your skills, lead impactful projects, and take control of your career development.

We are seeking a dynamic Electrical Engineer to contribute to robot design, fabrication, assembly, and testing with a solid application of electrical engineering principles and practice. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced and innovative setting. In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing robotics design across multiple industries, ensuring our team delivers exceptional and ground‑breaking results.

Your primary responsibilities are to:

• Research, identify and test relevant circuits and sensors.
• Find new sensors and ICs relevant to implementing and improving designs
• Perform PCB board design, schematic and layout
• Perform circuit prototyping, PCB assembly and rework
• Generate wiring diagrams
• Source and procure electronic components and lab supplies
• Participate in hardware design process design, reviews, and testing
• Perform light fabrication of prototype parts for robots.
• Assemble and test mechanical and electrical/electronic assemblies
• Document analysis, design, and test results
• Work with interdisciplinary teams to determine comprehensive solutions
• Travel to support field experiments in the field
• Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in an engineering or related field, or equivalent experience
• Minimum 3-5 years of related experience in engineering
• Proven track record of developing electrical circuits and electrical system
• Circuit design software experience (Altium preferred)
• Effective organizational, planning, and analytical skills
• Independent judgment and problem‑solving abilities
• Ability to effectively interact with a multifaceted population of internal and external partners
• Ability to work on multiple projects at the same time

We especially want to hear from you if you have experience or qualifications in any of the following areas:

• Experience with UL certification processes
• Extensive knowledge of NFPA 70 National Electrical Code (NEC)
• Python/Bash scripting, Matlab, C, C++ Experience with MCU firmware development, Atmel and STM32
• Experience around FGPA development
• Industrial IO systems
• Experience with High speed routing and fabrication considerations
• Imaging and optics
• Embedded and industrial computing
• Power supply design
• Motor controller design and specification
• Smart battery design
• Familiarity with 3D modeling software (SolidWorks or similar)

Other Requirements:

• Successful pre‑employment background check
• Travel Requirements: You should be able to travel domestically and be willing to work outside of normal business hours as needed

This position will require work on a variety of projects, including projects that involve military/defense applications and/or are funded by military/defense sponsors.

Are you interested in joining our versatile team at NREC where you will have a direct impact on operations and meaningful projects?

Join a collaborative environment where your hands‑on skills, leadership, and mentorship will directly influence operations and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Why NREC? (https://www.nrec.ri.cmu.edu/careers/why-nrec/)

At NREC, you will shape the robotics revolution by tackling real‑world challenges in agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and much more. You will work alongside top robotics experts, develop ground‑breaking technologies, and see your solutions (https://www.nrec.ri.cmu.edu/solutions/) deployed in the field.

NREC at a Glance:

• Located in Pittsburgh or "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

NREC also leads in educational outreach through its Robotics Academy (https://www.cmu.edu/roboticsacademy/) , which develops curricula and software for K-12 and college-level students. Yo