Mechanical Research & Development Engineer

Penn State University•University Park, IL

4d•$105,900 - $200,808•Onsite

About The Position

We are searching for a high motivated Mechanical Research and Development Engineer to join our Advanced Design & Analysis Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. This role will involve designing, analyzing, and testing structures and systems, including multi-material assemblies, including fiber-reinforced polymer composite structures and other advanced materials. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

Requirements

Finite element analysis (FEA) modeling and structural analysis of multi-material systems
CAD software, such as SolidWorks, Creo, or NX
Programming skills (MATLAB/Python)
Ability to quickly adapt to diverse engineering tasks and changing project priorities
Demonstrated collaboration within a multidisciplinary team
Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science
5+ years of relevant experience (for higher-level position)
2+ years of relevant experience (for intermediate-level position)
Must be a U.S. citizen
Eligible to obtain a government security clearance
Participate in the ARL drug testing program
Comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors

Nice To Haves

Abaqus or similar advanced FEA software
Past success with multi‑material assemblies and integrated system architectures
Mechanical testing methods and laboratory experiments
Modeling, subsystem integration, or interface analysis

Responsibilities

Perform analytical and computational modeling to evaluate system and structural behavior, component interactions, and overall design performance
Develop detailed mechanical designs and assemblies using mechanical CAD software
Conduct laboratory testing to validate analytical models
Flexibly adapt across a variety of technical tasks, including CAD modeling, scripting in MATLAB/Python, analytical modeling, and supporting experimental testing
Collaborate closely with senior engineers, receiving mentorship in modeling, design methodologies, and interdisciplinary engineering practices
Support system and subsystem integration efforts by analyzing interfaces, ensuring compatibility, and contributing to the development of fully integrated system architectures
Perform detailed finite element analysis of multi‑material systems as part of broader design and integration activities, supporting structural evaluation, system modeling, and engineering decision‑making
Support research conducted within Unclassified, Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), and Classified environments while safeguarding sensitive technical information and government-furnished data
Participate in technology transition activities, including system integration, operational demonstrations, customer evaluations, manufacturing support, and field implementation
Identify technical risks and develop mitigation strategies to improve program execution, system performance, reliability, maintainability, and mission effectiveness
Initiate and contribute to business development activities through technical concept development, customer engagement, proposal preparation, Independent Research and Development (IRAD) initiatives, and strategic technology planning
Mentor and provide technical leadership to junior engineers, engineering technologists, engineering support personnel, interns, and students
Maintain technical expertise through continued professional development, participation in technical working groups, awareness of emerging technologies, and engagement with the defense research community