Researcher

Penn State University; Northern (KY); Hybrid; USD 90,000 - 120,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

75% tuition discount

Job summary

Penn State University’s Applied Research Laboratory in State College, PA seeks a highly motivated Researcher with strong structural analysis expertise for the Energy Science and Power Systems Division. The role may be filled as Research and Development Engineer or non-tenure Research Faculty, with DoD SkillBridge eligibility for transitioning military members.

The position involves performing structural analysis, validating designs, and collaborating across R&D, manufacturing, and testing teams

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field.
• Solid understanding of finite element analysis (FEA) and structural analysis tools.
• Ability to communicate theories and results in writing and presentations.
• Experience with structural analysis and mechanical design principles.
• Proficiency with ANSYS, Abaqus, or SolidWorks Simulation.
• CAD proficiency: Unigraphics, Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Creo.

Responsibilities

• Perform structural analysis using analytical methods and FEA tools to evaluate components, assemblies, and systems.
• Develop, validate, and improve mechanical designs from concept through production.
• Collaborate with R&D, manufacturing, and testing teams to resolve structural challenges.
• Support prototype builds, design reviews, and design-for-manufacturing activities.

Skills

Structural analysis

FEA methods

Communication of results

Mechanical design principles

Engineering analysis tools

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor’s degree in Materials Science

Tools

ANSYS

Abaqus

SolidWorks Simulation

CAD: Unigraphics

Siemens NX

SolidWorks

Creo

Job description

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are seeking a highly motivated Researcher with strong structural analysis expertise to join our Energy Science and Power Systems Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. We support our national security and undersea warfare sponsors through the development and demonstration of science and technology with the expertise, tools, and processes to take concepts from the early developmental phase through transition to industry and the fleet. This position may be filled as either a Research and Development Engineer or a non-tenure Research Faculty. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

• Perform structural analysis using analytical methods and FEA tools to evaluate mechanical components, assemblies, and systems
• Develop, validate, and improve mechanical designs from concept through production
• Collaborate with research and development, manufacturing, and testing teams to resolve structural or mechanical challenges
• Support prototype builds, design reviews, and design-for-manufacturing (DFM) activities
• Identify opportunities for performance improvement, weight reduction, cost reduction, and increased reliability

Non-tenure faculty rank will be commensurate with education level and experience.

Required Skills / Experience Areas

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline
• Have a solid understanding of finite element analysis (FEA) principles, and analytical tools used in structural analysis and effectively communicate theories and results to colleagues, management, and sponsors, in both written and presentation format
• Structural analysis and mechanical design principles
• Finite Element Analysis (ANSYS, Abaqus, SolidWorks Simulation, etc.)
• CAD software (Unigraphics, Siemens NX, SolidWorks, Creo, or similar)
• Ability to express ideas successfully to drive understanding
• Past success in writing white papers or reports
• Excellent problem solving skills

Preferred Skills / Experience Areas

• Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related discipline
• Dynamic, thermal, or fatigue analysis of complex engineering systems
• Knowledge of material selection, manufacturing processes, and GD&T
• Familiarity with testing and validation methods for structural components

Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher and may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required.

Your working location will be located fully on-site located in State College, PA.

BACKGROUND CHECKS / CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies. Notice regarding employment at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL): Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in the ARL drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. ARL operates in a secure information environment involving Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified information. Personal electronic devices brought onsite must be registered and may be restricted from certain areas. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply.

BENEFITS

• Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional wellbeing.
• In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans.
• One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children.
• For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page. (Note: For Postdoctoral benefits, please see our Postdoctoral Benefits page.)

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status.

If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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