At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), it is our engineers and technicians who drive the breakthroughs that define our success. The members of our technical staff collaborate closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions that address complex challenges in industrial, commercial and government sectors. Each project benefits from their expertise, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving, fueling progress and innovation across the organization.
As part of our dedicated team, you will work alongside world-class robotics professionals committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and redefining ideas into solutions for real-world applications. We foster a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible and encouraging environment where you can sharpen your skills, lead impactful projects, and take control of your career development.
We are seeking a dynamic Senior Mechanical Engineer to lead and contribute to efforts in robot design, fabrication, assembly, and testing with a solid application of mechanical engineering principles and practice. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast-paced and innovative setting. In this role, you will be instrumental in advancing the design of groundbreaking robotics systems and ensuring our team delivers exceptional results.
Your primary responsibilities are to:
- Perform research, design, develop, and test electromechanical systems for robotic applications
- Apply engineering design process from conceptualization to prototype development and validation
- Perform modeling, analysis, and simulation of electromechanical systems
- Lead design efforts for electromechanical subsystems
- Support junior engineers
- Develop CAD models and drawings of electromechanical assemblies and systems
- Perform light fabrication, subsystem assembly, and integration of subsystems
- Formulate and perform electromechanical system tests
- Document analyses, design and build test reports
- Travel to support field experiments and off-site test programs
- Other duties as assigned
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor / Masters/ Doctorate degree in an engineering or related field, or equivalent experience of more than 6 years of related experience in engineering
- Experience with developing complex mechanical systems
- Experience with technical writing
- Effective organizational, planning, project management, public speaking and analytical skills required
- Independent judgment and problem-solving abilities
- 3D modeling experience required (SolidWorks preferred)
- Ability to effectively interact with a multifaceted population of internal and external partners
- Ability to work on multiple projects at the same time
We especially want to hear from you if you have experience or qualifications in any of the following areas:
- Experience with Finite Element Analysis with ANSYS and/or SolidWorks Simulation
- Experience with manufacturing using modern methods include CNC mill and lathe, CNC press brakes, laser cutters, and 3D printers
- Gear Design experience
- Hydraulic system design experience
- Experience with structural design and analysis
- Experience specifying/selecting electrical components (motors, sensors, etc.) for robotic systems
- Knowledge of electrical circuit design
- Experience with programming for prototype development (Python, Arduino, etc.)
- Knowledge technical project management and systems engineering
Other Requirements:
- Successful pre-employment background check
This position will require work on a variety of projects, including projects that involve military/defense applications and/or are funded by military/defense sponsors.
Are you interested in joining our versatile team at NREC where you will have a direct impact on operations and meaningful projects?
Join a collaborative environment where your hands-on skills, leadership, and mentorship will directly influence operations and inspire the next generation of innovators.
Why NREC?
At NREC, you will shape the robotics revolution by tackling real-world challenges in agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and much more. You will work alongside top robotics experts, develop ground breaking technologies, and see your solutions deployed in the field.
NREC at a Glance:
- Located in Pittsburgh or “Roboburgh”, a hub for over 120+ robotics companies
- 30+ years of pioneering robotics research
- 150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world impact
- Part of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute, a global leader in robotics
NREC also leads in educational outreach through its Robotics Academy, which develops curricula and software for K–12 and college-level students. You will also have opportunities to engage with these student groups through outreach activities.
As part of our team, you will have the flexibility to grow your career - whether becoming a technical expert, leading projects, mentoring others, or exploring new pathways and making an impact in developing technologies that drive progress, improve safety and transform industries.
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.
Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.
Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!
For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.
At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.
Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!
Location
Pittsburgh, PAJob Function
Engineering, Research and Project ScientistsPosition Type
Staff – RegularFull Time/Part time
Full timePay Basis
SalaryMore Information:
Please visit “Why Carnegie Mellon” to learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.
Click here to view a listing of employee benefits
Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.
Statement of Assurance
Skills Required
- Bachelor's in Electrical Engineering and more than 6 years' experience OR MS in Electrical Engineering and 3+ years' experience
- Proficiency with systems engineering and project management with focus on systems-level design and integration
- Strong understanding of motion control, brushed and brushless motors, and motion controller design
- Circuit design and multi-layer PCB layout experience using Altium Designer
- Embedded system design implementing microcontrollers and FPGAs; strong programming in C/C++ for embedded systems
- Experience programming FPGAs (Verilog or VHDL)
- Extensive analog circuit and low-voltage system design experience
- Sensor interface design experience with SPI, I2C, CAN, UART and standard computer buses
- Understanding of design and debugging of safety-critical electrical systems and fault detection/prevention/mitigation
- Ability and eagerness to work in a fast-paced, rapid design, prototype, and build environment
- Successful pre-employment background check
- Ability to travel domestically and willingness to work outside normal business hours as needed
- Experience with UL certification processes
- Extensive knowledge of NFPA 70 National Electrical Code (NEC)
- Python, Bash scripting, Matlab experience
- MCU firmware development experience (Atmel, STM32)
- FPGA development experience
- Experience with industrial I/O systems and embedded/industrial computing
- High-speed routing and fabrication considerations experience
- Imaging and optics experience
- Power supply design experience
- Motor controller design and specification experience
- Smart battery design experience
- Familiarity with 3D modeling software such as SolidWorks
- Experience mentoring or supporting junior engineers
Carnegie Mellon University Compensation & Benefits Highlights
The following summarizes recurring compensation and benefits themes identified from responses generated by popular LLMs to common candidate questions about Carnegie Mellon University and has not been reviewed or approved by Carnegie Mellon University.
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Retirement Support — Retirement support is positioned as a standout, with automatic employer contributions to a TIAA-administered plan at 8% of base salary (and 9.78% for 9‑month academic appointments), plus optional employee deferrals. Vesting after three years is clearly specified, which helps set expectations for long-term value.
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Parental & Family Support — Parental and family support is strengthened by 100% paid parental leave for six weeks and 100% paid maternity leave for 6–8 weeks (delivery-type dependent), effective July 1, 2024. Childcare support is also referenced through a Cyert Center subsidy up to $5,000 per family, alongside no-cost EAP access.
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Wellbeing & Lifestyle Benefits — Wellbeing and lifestyle benefits include free Pittsburgh Regional Transit access and access to fitness classes and facilities, adding recurring non-cash value to the overall package. Pittsburgh’s relatively affordable cost of living can further increase the perceived adequacy of a given salary compared with higher-cost coastal hubs.
Carnegie Mellon University Insights
What We Do
Carnegie Mellon University founder Andrew Carnegie said: "My heart is in the work." No statement better captures the passion and drive of our people to make a real difference. At Carnegie Mellon, we're not afraid of the work. Our educational environment creates problem solvers, drivers of innovation and pioneers in technology and the arts. Employers in every field say our graduates are ready to hit the ground running the day they graduate. So, join us. Whether you're looking for a career or an education. Or both.
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