Senior Mechanical Engineer

Alcoa; New Kensington (Westmoreland County); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

Alcoa is seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to contribute to their Breakthrough Technologies Team, focused on revolutionizing the aluminum industry. The role involves leading engineering design and innovation efforts, working collaboratively with a diverse group of experts to develop cutting-edge industrial equipment and techniques aimed at sustainability. Applicants should have a relevant bachelor's degree and significant R&D experience.

Benefits

Competitive compensation packages

Flexible spending accounts and HSA contributions

401(k) match

10 holidays and paid volunteer hours

Qualifications

• 8+ years of experience in R&D, design, or manufacturing.
• Experience with FEA, root cause analysis, and troubleshooting.
• Digital literacy and ability to learn new software.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and problem-solving efforts in R&D.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including scientists and engineers.
• Design, build, and test equipment for reactive environments.

Skills

SolidWorks

AutoCAD

Communication

Interpersonal Skills

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Shape Your World

At Alcoa, you will become an essential part of our purpose: to turn raw potential into real progress. The way we see it, every Alcoan is a work-shaper, team-shaper, idea-shaper, world-shaper.

AtAlcoa, we’re not just imagining a better future—we’re building it. OurBreakthrough Technologies Teamis at the forefront of revolutionizing the aluminum industry with innovations likeASTRAEAandELYSIS, aimed at eliminating CO₂ emissions from the smelting process. We’re looking for aSenior Mechanical Engineerwho is passionate about engineering, sustainability, and working in a collaborative, inclusive environment.

In this role the engineer will have the opportunity to work with PHD materials scientists, chemists, electro-chemists, analytical chemists with a full suite of analytical lab equipment, as well as teams of engineers and scientists in France and Canada all dedicated to the same goal!

The team is engaged in the production and treatment of molten metal producing systems, inclusive of bench scale to full commercial size production units. This professional will be encouraged to participate from concepts through design, construction and operation of systems at various scales to optimize the final design of equipment and support systems for commercial scale operation.

About the Role

As aSenior Mechanical Engineer, you’ll be a key contributor to the design, development, and testing of cutting-edge industrial equipment. You’ll work alongside a diverse team of engineers and scientists—locally and globally—to bring breakthrough technologies from concept to commercial scale. In this role, the Sr. Mechanical Engineer will:

• Lead mechanical design and problem-solving efforts in a fast-paced R&D setting.

• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams including materials scientists, chemists, and engineers.

• Design, build, and test equipment for high-temperature, chemically reactive environments.

• Drive innovation from bench-scale prototypes to full-scale commercial systems.

• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers and technicians.

• Conduct root cause and risk analyses; propose and implement design improvements.

• Create and present clear, confident technical presentations to diverse stakeholders.

• Manage project timelines, budgets, and vendor relationships.

• Ensure compliance with engineering standards and safety protocols.

• Use SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and other tools to develop and maintain technical drawings.

• Ensuring compliance with project work with appropriate engineering and industry standards.

• Identifying and implementing new insights while gaining team consensus.

• Able to shift focus and solve problems under pressure while leading others involved.

What You Bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (or related field).

• 8+ years of experience in R&D, design, or manufacturing.

• Proficiency in SolidWorks, AutoCAD, and Microsoft Office.

• Experience with FEA, root cause analysis, and troubleshooting.

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.

• A growth mindset and the ability to adapt in a dynamic environment.

• Excellent digital literacy with the ability to learn new software and programs

• Experience with Microsoft Office applications

• Demonstrates ability to adapt and be resourceful in the face of challenges; results oriented

What Alcoa Offers:

• Competitive packages, including variable pay, recognition programs, and stock-based awards.

• Flexible spending accounts, HSA contributions, 401(k) match, retirement income contributions, and more.

• 10 holidays, one flexible holiday, and paid volunteer hours.

• Named one of America’s Greatest Workplaces 2023 by Newsweek.

We value various perceptions and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive. If you bring curiosity, creativity, and a collaborative spirit, you’ll fit right in.

#LI-TL2

About the Location

Every day is a new and exciting challenge at the Alcoa Technical Center in New Kensington, PA, just north of Pittsburgh. We develop new technologies with our Breakthrough Technologies team that has the potential to impact the life of millions of people and foster the sustainable footprint from Alcoa to the world. It was here where we developed the technology recently announced in partnership with Rio Tinto, called ELYSIS, where we will produce aluminum with ZERO emission of greenhouse gases. In fact, we will actually be generating oxygen to our atmosphere during the aluminum production process– a revolution to the aluminum industry!

We are values led, vision driven and united by our purpose of transforming raw potential into real progress. Our commitments to Inclusion, Diversity & Equity include providing trusting workplaces that are safe, respectful and inclusive of all individuals, free from discrimination, bullying and harassment and that our workplaces reflect the diversity of the communities in which we operate.

As a proud equal opportunity workplace and affirmative action employer, Alcoa is dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of a person’s gender, age, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, nation of origin, disability, veteran status, language spoken or any other characteristic or status protected by the laws or regulations in the places where we operate.

If you have visited our website in search of information on U.S. employment opportunities or to apply for a position, and you require an accommodation, please contact Alcoa Recruiting via email at [e-mail].

This is a place where you are empowered to do your best work, be your authentic self, and feel a true sense of belonging. Come join us and shape your career!

Your work. Your world. Shape them for the better.