Mechanical Engineer - NREC

cmu· Carnegie Mellon University
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📍 Pittsburgh, PAFull time
Full timeCarnegie Mellon University

About this role

The National Robotics Engineering Center is seeking a dynamic Mechanical Engineer to contribute to the design of groundbreaking robotics systems. The candidate will contribute to robot design, fabrication, assembly, and testing with a solid application of mechanical engineering principles and practice. As an institution working on robotics systems, a successful candidate will keep an open mind to problem solving and reaching solutions with an interdisciplinary team. Candidates should be eager to immerse themselves in challenges and be willing to learn and apply new domain specific knowledge.

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
  • 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
  • Interact with and present to customers and work with subcontractors and vendors of technology
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in an engineering or related field, or equivalent experience
  • Minimum 3-5 years of related experience in engineering
  • Proven track record in developing mechanical systems
  • Effective organizational, planning, and analytical skills
  • Independent judgment and problem-solving abilities
  • 3D modeling experience (SolidWorks preferred)

Desired Qualifications:

  • Experience with Finite Element Analysis with ANSYS and/or SolidWorks Simulation
  • Experience with manufacturing using modern methods including CNC mill and lathe, laser cutters, and 3D printers
  • 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.)
     

Why NREC?

You will have an impact in shaping the robotics revolution, collaborate with and learn from experts, and build your career in a rapidly growing field. As part of our team, you will develop solutions to solve industrial and government challenges, deploy your technology in real-world situations, work side-by-side with robotics experts, and develop an array of innovative technologies.
 

Have an Impact!

  • Remove waste from farming = more food (link)
  • Make industrial processes environmentally friendly (link)
  • Make hazardous jobs safer (link)
  • Improve efficiency in industry & manufacturing (link)
  • Accelerate screening of pharmaceuticals (link)

Take Control of Your Career!

  • Select the career pathway that interests you
  • Influence the direction of projects
  • Supportive of a non-standard schedule
  • Maintain work/life balance
  • Switch between part-time and full-time as life demands
     

NREC is at the center of the robotics ecosystem in Pittsburgh, PA. With over 100 robotics companies, Pittsburgh is recognized as the Robotics Capital of the World. Geek Wire calls it Robotics Row; others call it Roboburgh. Join the leader in the most exciting time in robotics!
 

Join the Best Robotics R&D Group

Join our passionate and versatile team at NREC, an operating unit within the world-renowned Robotics Institute at Carnegie Mellon University.

NREC has 25+ years of experience developing and deploying robots into many applications across multiple sectors, such as agriculture, mining, defense, energy, and manufacturing. We strive to provide solutions for real-world challenges where automation and robots impact efficiency and improve the safety and comfort of the labor force. Our unique expertise places us at the forefront of autonomous ground vehicle design, autonomy, sensing and perception, machine learning, machine vision, operator assistance, 3D mapping, and position estimation. With over 160 robotics professionals, we solve challenges that no other organization can.
 

NREC also leads in educational outreach through its Robotics Academy, which builds robotics curricula and software for K-12 and college-level students, and offers professional development certification courses and training to educators.
 

Opportunities people at NREC have seized:

As a member of NREC, you have the opportunity to take control of your career. People in similar roles have shaped their careers to suit their interests and their needs.

  • Becoming an in-depth expert in a technical area
  • Leading projects and fostering client relationships
  • Receiving mentoring from senior engineers and robotics experts
  • Mentoring junior engineers
  • Taking courses at Carnegie Mellon
  • Staying connected with academic and recreational activities at Carnegie Mellon
  • Transitioned into a robotics, program management, technical lead, or software architecture roles
  • Performing consulting during off time
  • Outreach to K-12 and college-level students
     

At NREC, we value diversity, support it, and thrive with it for the benefit of our organization, our employees and our community. 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, PA

Job Function

Engineering, Research and Project Scientists

Position Type

Staff – Regular

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Salary

More Information: 

  • Please visit Why Carnegie Mellonto 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

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the salary disclosed for the Mechanical Engineer - NREC position at cmu?
The salary for this Mechanical Engineer - NREC role at cmu is not publicly listed. Click "Apply Now" to learn more about the compensation package on their official careers page.
Where is the Mechanical Engineer - NREC position at cmu located?
This Mechanical Engineer - NREC role at cmu is based in Pittsburgh, PA. The position is listed as on-site or hybrid. Check the full job description or apply directly to confirm the work arrangement.
Is the Mechanical Engineer - NREC role at cmu full-time or part-time?
This is listed as a Full time position. It is posted as a Mechanical Engineer - NREC role in the Carnegie Mellon University department at cmu.
Which team or department does the Mechanical Engineer - NREC at cmu belong to?
This Mechanical Engineer - NREC position is part of the Carnegie Mellon University department at cmu. See the full job description for more information about the team structure and responsibilities.
How do I apply for the Mechanical Engineer - NREC position at cmu?
Click the "Apply Now" button on this page. You will be redirected to cmu's official application portal hosted on workday where you can submit your application directly.
When was the Mechanical Engineer - NREC job at cmu posted?
This Mechanical Engineer - NREC position at cmu was posted on Aug 12, 2026. Apply as soon as possible — early applications are often reviewed first.
Mechanical Engineer - NREC
cmu
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