Technical Engineering Specialist (Mechanical)

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University; University Park (TX); On-site; USD 51,504 - 113,100; Full time

Job summary

The Applied Research Laboratory at Penn State University is seeking a Technical Engineering Specialist (Mechanical) to design and fabricate test fixtures, prototypes, and components for the SERP division. You will work with engineers and support specialists to instrument assemblies and document experiments, performing precision measurements and shop work on-site in State College, PA.

This role requires the ability to travel domestically, interpret engineering drawings, and use CAD tools.

Qualifications

• Associate Degree with 2+ years of relevant experience, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Ability to interpret engineering drawings and use CAD software.
• Experience conducting and documenting laboratory experiments and using shop tools.
• Willingness for a hybrid role with ~50% desk work and 50% shop work.

Responsibilities

• Design and fabricate test fixtures, prototypes and components under supervision.
• Collaborate with engineers and support specialists to instrument electromechanical assemblies.
• Conduct and document laboratory experiments.
• Photographs/videography support of experiments; digital editing a plus.
• Procure hardware from vendors and reconcile expenses.
• Assist in project progress tracking and costing.
• Maintain a clean and organized shop environment.
• Lead or support laboratory safety and waste management.
• Travel domestically for training, demonstrations, conferences, and deployments.
• Support proposal generation with costing and document formatting.

Skills

Interpreting engineering drawings

Communication skills

Team collaboration

Hybrid work willingness

Adaptability

Education

Associate Degree

Tools

CAD software (AutoCAD/ SolidWorks/ NX)

Microsoft Office (Word/PowerPoint/Excel/Project)

Shop equipment handling

Job description

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.

For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

We are searching for a Technical Engineering Specialist (Mechanical) to join our Specialized Hardware and Rapid Prototyping Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. As you learn and grow, you will assist engineers in project execution via design, fabrication, documentation, and test activities. The mission of the Systems Engineering and Rapid Prototyping (SERP) Division is to provide full spectrum support for the research, evaluation, development, rapid prototyping, manufacturing, fielding, and testing of complex systems which support the warfighter and our nation’s defense. We support the mission of SERP by executing the research, design and application of engineering development and manufacturing methodologies supporting the strategic advancement of warfighter capability at the speed of relevance.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will

• Design and fabricate test fixtures, prototypes and other components under the supervision of an engineer.
• Work in teams with engineers and Support Specialists to fabricate and instrument electromechanical assemblies.
• Conduct and document laboratory experiments
• Photography and videography support of experiments, digital editing a plus.
• Using engineer specifications and shop equipment, fabricate custom components and hardware.
• Locate and procure hardware/components from various vendors and reconcile expenses with the PSU Concur reconciliation program
• Assist manager in project progress tracking and costing.
• Maintain a clean and organized shop environment.
• Lead or support laboratory safety and waste management for one to multiple sites.
• Travel domestically supporting; training events, demonstrations, conferences, and equipment deployments.
• Support generation of proposals with costing and document formatting

Additional responsibilities for higher-level position includes

• Identify vendors/outside shops for work, provide oversight of selected vendors/shops
• Extensive experience performing similar work

Required skills/experience areas include

• Proficiency in interpreting engineering drawings (mechanical and electrical); experience with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) programs is a plus
• Strong working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications, including Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Project, with the ability and willingness to learn new software tools
• Ability to operate a variety of shop and hand tools, perform precision measurements, and interpret technical drawings
• Skilled in mechanical assembly
• Ability to clearly and effectively communicate ideas to ensure accurate understanding
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams
• Willingness and capability to perform a hybrid role consisting of approximately 50% desk work and 50% shop work

Preferred skills/experience areas include

• Experience with industry-standard design software such as AutoCAD, SolidWorks, and Siemens NX
• Advanced manufacturing capabilities, including 3D printing, CNC machine operation, CNC programming, and laser cutting
• Demonstrated success in procurement and reconciliation activities within Department of Defense environments
• Knowledge of chemical management practices and Hazmat handling procedures
• 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 fully on-site between multiple locations in the State College Area. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as Technical Engineering Specialist, Mechanical (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires: Associate Degree 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None If filled as Technical Engineering Specialist, Mechanical (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires: Associate Degree 4+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None If filled as Technical Engineering Specialist, Mechanical (ARL) - Intermediate Professional, this position requires: Associate Degree 2+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted Required Certifications: None

ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our website at www.arl.psu.edu.

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.

Salary & Benefits

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $51,504.00 - $113,100.00.

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. 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.

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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