Research and Development Engineer - Mechanical Engineer

Penn State University•University Park, IL

2d•$92,100 - $174,708•Onsite

About The Position

Penn State’s Applied Research Laboratory (ARL), within the Energy Science and Power Systems (ESPS) Division, is seeking a Thermal Mechanical Engineer with experience in energetics. ESPS develops novel energy sources and power-producing systems, mainly for underwater applications, drawing on expertise in thermo-fluid systems, chemical reactions, high-speed machinery, structural analysis, and automation and controls. The position involves investigating, evaluating, and applying scientific theories and engineering principles; developing engineering products; and conducting experiments and tests. It will be filled at the Professional or Intermediate Professional level, based on the applicant’s education and experience. The role is fully on-site in State College, Pennsylvania. ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes transitioning military members to apply. Employees must be eligible to obtain a government security clearance, participate in ARL’s drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors. Applicants must be U.S. citizens. Employment is contingent on successful completion of required background checks.

Requirements

Experience with solid-modeling CAD software, including Unigraphics/Siemens NX.
Combustion experience, through coursework or hands-on work.
Ability to work independently and complete tasks with little to no supervision after appropriate training.
Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret level or higher; may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility if required.
U.S. citizenship.
Eligibility to obtain a government security clearance, participate in ARL’s drug testing program, and comply with electronic and physical monitoring requirements applicable to federal contractors.
For the Intermediate Professional level: bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science and at least 2 years of relevant experience.
For the Professional level: bachelor’s degree in Engineering or Science; no prior relevant work experience is required.

Nice To Haves

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a similar engineering discipline.
Past success working within an A&E in a professional setting.
Knowledge of ATF/DOT standards for storage and transportation of Hazard Class 1 items.
Knowledge of DOD Manual 4145.26, DOD Contractor’s Safety Manual for Ammunition and Explosives.
Knowledge of Defense Explosive Safety Regulation (DESR) 6055.09.

Responsibilities

Assist in designing, executing, and evaluating combustion-system and mechanical-system tests.
Assist in designing test equipment.
Work with Engineering Support Specialists and Engineering Technologists to create test equipment.
Install instrumentation and collect digital data using equipment such as thermocouples, pressure transducers, strain gauges, and accelerometers.
Document and report test results to engineering peers.
Handle energetic and reactive materials according to reasonable safe practices and established procedures.
Balance work across several simultaneous projects.
Use solid-modeling software such as Siemens NX and SolidWorks.
For the higher-level position, purchase and reconcile needed test equipment and consumables.
For the higher-level position, write test plans that include safety requirements.
For the higher-level position, direct technicians’ day-to-day work.
For the higher-level position, manage Engineering Interns’ time.