R&D Mechanical Engineer – Rapid Prototyping & Systems

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 105,900 - 231,000; Full time

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University (ARL) is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join the SERP Division in State College, PA. This on-site role focuses on rapid prototyping, systems engineering, and advanced hardware development for defense-related programs.

You will conduct independent and collaborative research, perform analytical studies, and lead prototype demonstrations across Navy, IC, and other sponsors.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science required.
• Experience with automation and control systems desirable.
• Ability to communicate across multidisciplinary teams and sponsors.
• Willingness to learn new tools and technologies.

Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research, development, testing, and evaluation activities to solve complex scientific and engineering challenges.
• Investigate, evaluate, and apply established and emerging engineering principles to develop innovative technical solutions.
• Plan, perform, and lead analytical studies, modeling and simulation, laboratory experimentation, field testing, and prototype demonstrations.
• Design, develop, integrate, analyze, and evaluate hardware, software, embedded systems, sensors, and electromechanical systems.
• Apply systems engineering principles throughout the project lifecycle: requirements, architecture, design trade studies, integration, verification, and risk management.
• Develop experimental plans, data collection methodologies, and performance metrics; analyze results and recommend improvements.
• Support development of prototypes and transition technologies for government sponsors.
• Prepare technical reports, analyses, publications, and sponsor deliverables documenting methods and findings.
• Present technical information to sponsors, program managers, and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with engineers, scientists, software developers, technicians, and partners to meet program objectives.
• Ensure compliance with sponsor requirements, engineering standards, cybersecurity, and lab security procedures.
• Support research in Unclassified, CUI, and Classified environments while safeguarding sensitive data.

Skills

Automation systems

Adaptability

Strong communication

Multidisciplinary collaboration

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering or Science

Tools

SolidWorks

Siemens NX

AutoCAD

Arduino

Job description

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University (ARL) is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to join the SERP Division in State College, PA. This on-site role focuses on rapid prototyping, systems engineering, and advanced hardware development for defense-related programs.

You will conduct independent and collaborative research, perform analytical studies, and lead prototype demonstrations across Navy, IC, and other sponsors.