Research and Development Engineer

Position Specifications

We are searching for Mechanical Engineers to join the Mechanical Systems Design Department within the Engineering Systems Research and Development Division at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This role will design, analyze, build, and test hardware for undersea applications from concept to development and through transition using a board scope of Division technical expertise in core engineering disciplines. The work performed in this position directly supports the development, fabrication, assembly, integration and testing of hardware and software systems in support of undersea applications supporting the United States Armed Forces and other government agencies. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You Will

• Analyze requirements, identify problems, and develop innovative solution concepts
• Design structures, mechanisms, actuation systems, and bearing systems
• Work with the design and drafting department to create and approve drawings
• Develop assembly and test procedures
• Work with technicians to perform assembly and testing of systems and subsystems
• Support field testing

Additional responsibilities for higher-level position includes

• Plan and perform technical tasks of a larger scope and lead teams within the project scope
• Manage projects of moderate size and scope; plan, schedule, conduct, or coordinate detailed phases of the work
• Mentor junior engineers in the development of technical and project skills

Required Skills/Experience areas include

• Design of complex machined components and subsystems
• 3D CAD design and engineering drawing development
• Ability to read and interpret mechanical drawings
• Geometric dimensioning and tolerancing (GD&T ANSI Y14.5)
• Proficiency in completing free body diagrams; using hand calculations to calculate forces and resultant stresses on structures
• Packaging of complex electromechanical assemblies
• Development of test plans and procedures
• Success in environments where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective

Preferred Skills/Experience areas include

• Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering
• Siemens NX 3D modeling
• Structural or thermal finite element analysis
• 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

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as R&D Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Senior Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• 14+ years of relevant experience
• Required Certifications: None

If filled as R&D Engineer - Mechanical (ARL) - Advanced Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
• 5+ years of relevant experience
• 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 Intel Community (IC), and other federal government customers.

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 $121,704.00 - $231,000.00.

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,