Mechanical Design and Analysis Research and Development Engineer

Job Overview

We are searching for a Research and Development Engineer to join our Advanced Design & Analysis Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. 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). This role will involve designing, analyzing, and testing structures and systems, with a particular emphasis on multi‑material assemblies, including fiber‑reinforced polymer composite structures.

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

For further information on ARL, visit our website .psu.edu.

Interested candidates should submit a resume to be considered for this position.

Security Clearance Preferred:
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. You will be subject to a government security investigation, and you must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with ARL requires successful completion of a pre‑employment drug screen.

Fully on-site, located in State College, PA.

• Perform advanced finite element analysis (FEA) modeling, structural analysis, and results interpretation.
• Develop detailed mechanical designs and assemblies using mechanical CAD software.
• Conduct laboratory testing to validate analytical models and determine material properties.
• Flexibly adapt across a variety of technical tasks, including CAD modeling, FEA, scripting in MATLAB/Python, and supporting experimental testing.
• Collaborate closely with senior engineers, receiving mentorship in CAD modeling, advanced FEA methods, and testing.

Minimally requires a Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or a science discipline and 2 years’ related experience.

• Finite element analysis (FEA) modeling and structural analysis.
• CAD software, such as Solid Works or NX.
• Programming skills (MATLAB/Python).
• Ability to quickly adapt to diverse engineering tasks and changing project priorities.
• Demonstrated collaboration within a multidisciplinary team.

• Experience with Abaqus or similar FEA software.
• Interest or experience with composite materials or multi‑material assemblies.
• Previous experience with mechanical testing methods and laboratory experiments.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is: $86,300.00 - $. The proposed salary range may be impacted by geographic differential.

Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action 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.