Mechatronics Engineer: Rapid Prototyping & Custom Robotics

Carnegie Mellon University; Pittsburgh (Allegheny County); On-site; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Benefits eligible employees

Tuition benefits

Free Pittsburgh bus pass

Job summary

Carnegie Mellon University’s National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) seeks a versatile Mechatronics Engineer (mechanical focus) to own the lifecycle of robotic designs, from brainstorming and modeling to assembly, wiring, and hardware-in-the-loop testing.

You’ll balance speed with engineering rigor, building quick proofs-of-concept and designing for reliability, while collaborating across interdisciplinary teams in a dynamic environment in Pittsburgh.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field) or equivalent experience.
• 1-3 years of engineering experience.
• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Onshape) with a portfolio of physical builds.
• Deep understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and designing for custom fabrication over relying on COTS components.
• Practical experience with mechanical assembly, hand tools, and an understanding of structural fits and tolerances.
• Functional knowledge of electronics—reading schematics, soldering, wiring harnesses, and diagnosing basic electrical faults.

Responsibilities

• Bespoke Mechanical Design: Lead the mechanical architecture and detailed design of custom robotic systems, specialized end-effectors, and unique enclosures.
• Rapid Prototyping & Fabrication: Use 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, and traditional fabrication methods to prototype concepts.
• Full Build Ownership (Assembly & Wiring): Assemble mechanical designs and route electrical wiring and wire harnesses.
• Testing & Electronics Debugging: Lead bring-up and testing; diagnose electrical issues with basic tools like multimeters and oscilloscopes.
• Scope & Explore: Interpret high-level requests, assess constraints, and communicate trade-offs before execution.

Skills

3D CAD modeling

SolidWorks

Fusion 360

Onshape

Mechanical assembly

C++

Python

ROS

Soldering

Wiring harnesses

CNC machining

3D printing

Laser cutting

Electrical fault diagnosis

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Mechatronics/Robotics or related field

Tools

CNC machining

3D printing

Laser cutting

Job description

Carnegie Mellon University’s National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC) seeks a versatile Mechatronics Engineer (mechanical focus) to own the lifecycle of robotic designs, from brainstorming and modeling to assembly, wiring, and hardware-in-the-loop testing.

You’ll balance speed with engineering rigor, building quick proofs-of-concept and designing for reliability, while collaborating across interdisciplinary teams in a dynamic environment in Pittsburgh.