Robotics and Mechanical Design Engineering Scientist

Robotics and Mechanical Design Engineering Scientist

Hiring Department: Applied Research Laboratories

Position Open To: All Applicants

Weekly Scheduled

Hours:

40

FLSA Status: Exempt

Earliest

Start Date:

Immediately

Position Duration: Expected to Continue

Location: PICKLE RESEARCH CAMPUS

Purpose:

Design, develop, test, document and maintain production and R&D equipment used in underwater robotics, sonar, navigation, life support, and diver systems. Equipment includes sonar, robotics and other systems that are constantly exposed to sea water, high pressure, and other extreme environmental conditions for the Advanced Technology Laboratory (ATL).

• Design, analyze and develop sonar/navigation/underwater robotics equipment using Solid Works and Solid Works Simulation.
• Create drawings, assembly instructions, and supporting documentation for systems.
• Assist in the assembly and testing of equipment.
• Participate in data collection exercises, data management, and analysis.
• Support the installation and testing of equipment in field locations.
• Complete other related functions as needed.

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or a related field.
• Three years of related/applied research and development experience.
• Demonstrated ability to design, evaluate, and document complex systems using CAD programs.
• Robotics background.
• Demonstrated ability to follow design and testing standards.

• Master’s degree in mechanical engineering preferred.
• Three or more years of development using Solid Works and finite element analyses (static, thermal, buckling, etc.).
• Familiarity with a PDM document management system.
• Experience designing underwater and robotics systems; experience leading a team of engineers.
• Experience with adhesives, molded parts, electronics packaging, seal design, cabling, machine/mechanism design, and other electro‑mechanical design.
• Knowledge of statics analysis, material analysis, thermal analysis, vibration, Finite Element Analysis, corrosion, fluid dynamics, acoustics.
• Hands‑on experience with hand tools, power tools, machining (mill, lathe, laser cutter, etc.). Familiarity with rapid prototyping.
• Prior work experience in professional or research‑oriented development.
• Prior military experience.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills.

Applicant must be highly organized, have excellent attention to detail, and possess sound scientific judgment. The position will require effective management of their own time with the ability to plan, coordinate, and execute multiple tasks simultaneously. Regular and punctual attendance in the workplace is required.

US Citizen. Applicant will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information at the appropriate level.

• 100% employer‑paid basic medical coverage
• Retirement contributions
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Paid holidays

$104,000‑$174,000+ (negotiable depending on qualifications)

• Standard office conditions
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Manual dexterity required
• Possible weekend, evening and holiday work
• Possible interstate/intrastate travel

• Resume/CV
• Three work references with contact information; at least one reference from a supervisor
• Letter of interest
• Unofficial college transcripts

A criminal history background check will be required for finalists.

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status.

Eligible applicants must complete the federal I‑9 form and present acceptable documents proving identity and authorization to work in the United States within three days of employment.

Illinois remains compliant with E‑Verify for new hires. The university’s r for E‑Verify is 854197.