Mechanical Systems Engineer – Prototyping & Field Testing (On-Site)

Applied Research Laboratory at the Penn State University; University Park (FL); On-site; USD 47,000 - 103,000; Full time

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University is seeking a Technical Engineering Specialist, Mechanical (ARL) to support the Manufacturing, Fabrication and Assembly (MF&A) Department in State College, PA. This on-site position requires collaboration with engineers, technicians, and sponsors on mechanical systems used in undersea research and development.

You will assist in design, fabrication, assembly, testing, and documentation of experimental hardware and prototype systems,

Qualifications

• Proficient with mechanical tools.
• Very high attention to detail.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision on difficult tasks.
• Able to read and interpret engineering drawings.
• Knowledge of mechanical, electrical and electronic components.
• Clear communication with engineers, technicians and suppliers.
• Strong technical writing skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office 365.

Responsibilities

• Apply mechanical engineering principles to support R&D activities including design support, fabrication coordination, assembly, and testing of experimental hardware.
• Develop, modify, and refine experimental setups, mechanical subsystems, test fixtures, tooling, and prototype assemblies.
• Perform inspection, calibration, testing, and troubleshooting of mechanical systems and subsystems.
• Ensure safe operation of laboratory and field test equipment by following safety protocols and standards.
• Support field test environments, instrumentation integration, and post-test recovery.
• Maintain documentation of designs, configurations, fabrication records, and test results.
• Identify failures, perform root-cause analysis, and coordinate corrective actions.

Skills

Mechanical tools

Attention to detail

Independent work

Engineering drawings

Electrical/electronic components

Communication

Technical writing

MS Office

Education

Associate degree

Tools

CAD programs

Advanced electro‑mechanical hand tools

Non-CNC machine shop equipment

Job description

The Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University is seeking a Technical Engineering Specialist, Mechanical (ARL) to support the Manufacturing, Fabrication and Assembly (MF&A) Department in State College, PA. This on-site position requires collaboration with engineers, technicians, and sponsors on mechanical systems used in undersea research and development.

You will assist in design, fabrication, assembly, testing, and documentation of experimental hardware and prototype systems,