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Darpa Program Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Apptronik

Staff Mechanical Engineer - R&D

Austin, TX · On-site

Preferred: experience on advanced robotics, NASA/DARPA programs, or similar high-bar R&D environments PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: * Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer * Must ...

Apptronik

Staff Mechanical Engineer - R&D

Austin, TX · On-site

Preferred: experience on advanced robotics, NASA/DARPA programs, or similar high-bar R&D environments PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: * Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer * Must ...

Esolvit Inc

Enterprise Architect

Austin, TX · On-site

$68.50 - $88.25/hr

Architect-level knowledge of DARPA Nexus 7, MEMEX portfolio and XDATA programs 2 Years of Skills in the design, configuration and implementation of a Meta Information Catalog program Preferred: 1 ...

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Darpa Program information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a DARPA program manager?

To thrive as a DARPA Program Manager, you need expertise in science or engineering, experience leading research projects, and often an advanced degree (e.g., PhD) in a relevant field. Familiarity with project management tools, government contracting processes, and technical proposal evaluation is typically required. Strategic vision, strong communication, and the ability to inspire and coordinate multidisciplinary teams are standout soft skills. These abilities are crucial for successfully designing, launching, and managing high-impact, innovative research programs that address complex national challenges.

What is a DARPA program?

A DARPA Program refers to a research and development initiative managed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), a branch of the U.S. Department of Defense. These programs are designed to create breakthrough technologies and capabilities for national security, often focusing on high-risk, high-reward innovations. DARPA Programs span a wide range of fields, such as artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, biotechnology, and advanced materials. Each program is typically led by a program manager and aims to transition successful technologies to military or commercial use. Participation often involves collaboration among universities, private companies, and government labs.

What are some typical challenges faced when working on a DARPA program team?

Working on a DARPA program team often involves tackling highly ambitious technical goals with tight deadlines and evolving requirements. Team members must be adaptable, as projects may pivot based on research findings or shifting priorities. Collaboration is key, as teams are typically multidisciplinary and may include external partners from academia, industry, and government. Successfully managing these dynamics while maintaining innovation and compliance with security protocols is a common challenge.

What is the difference between Darpa Program vs Research Scientist?

AspectDarpa ProgramResearch Scientist
CredentialsTypically requires advanced degrees in science or engineering, often with security clearancesRequires at least a master's degree, often a Ph.D., in a relevant scientific or technical field
Work EnvironmentGovernment-funded projects, often in labs or specialized facilities, with a focus on innovation and defense applicationsAcademic, industrial, or government labs; conducting experiments, data analysis, and publishing research
Employer & IndustryU.S. Department of Defense, research agencies, and contractorsUniversities, research institutions, or corporate R&D departments

While Darpa Programs focus on funding and managing innovative defense research projects, Research Scientists conduct scientific investigations across various fields, often contributing to knowledge and technology development. Both roles require strong technical credentials, but Darpa Programs are more project and funding-oriented within the defense sector, whereas Research Scientists focus on scientific discovery and experimentation.

How do you get hired at DARPA?

To get hired at DARPA, candidates typically need a strong background in science, engineering, or technology, along with relevant research experience. The application process involves submitting a resume through official government channels and often requires security clearances and interviews. Demonstrating expertise in innovative research and collaboration skills can improve chances of selection.
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Darpa Program jobs near you
Infographic showing various Darpa Program job openings in Texas as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Staff Mechanical Engineer - R&D

Apptronik

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 19 days ago

Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Apptronik is building Apollo - a general-purpose humanoid robot designed to work alongside humans. We are seeking a Staff Mechanical Engineer to join our R&D team and lead rapid development of next-generation robotic systems. This is a prototype-first role: you will turn novel mechanical concepts into working hardware fast, learn from failure, and push the physical limits of what is mechanically possible - not sustain a production line.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Lead full-cycle prototype development - own mechanical assemblies from concept sketch through physical build, with a bias toward speed and iteration.
  • Design and fabricate hardware in-house - operate machine shop equipment, 3D printers, and fabrication tools to rapidly validate design concepts.
  • Plan and execute mechanical experiments - define test objectives, instrument prototypes with sensors, and run structured experiments to validate mechanical behavior.
  • Collaborate across engineering disciplines - work directly with controls, electrical, and systems engineers to integrate mechanical designs into full system prototypes.
  • Conceive novel mechanism architectures - evaluate new actuation concepts, transmission designs, and structural approaches beyond iteration on existing hardware.
  • Mentor junior engineers - guide team members through prototype development cycles, design reviews, and hands-on fabrication.
  • Maintain design documentation - capture design intent clearly enough to enable replication and inform cross-functional teams, without bureaucratic overhead.

SKILLS AND REQUIREMENTS

  • 8+ years of hands-on mechanical engineering experience with a strong focus on R&D and prototype development
  • Proven track record of taking novel mechanical concepts from sketch to functional hardware
  • Deep proficiency in 3D CAD (SolidWorks, Onshape, or equivalent)
  • Shop-floor capability: comfortable with machining, 3D printing, sheet metal, and manual fabrication
  • Experience with structural and dynamic analysis (FEA, hand calculations, or both)
  • Comfort with ambiguity - energized by open-ended problems and fast-changing requirements
  • Strong mechanical intuition developed through years of building and iterating on physical systems

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

  • Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent experience)
  • 8+ years of experience in R&D-focused mechanical engineering roles
  • Preferred: experience on advanced robotics, NASA/DARPA programs, or similar high-bar R&D environments

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

  • Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer
  • Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
  • Vision to read printed materials and a computer screen
  • Hearing and speech to communicate
  • Ability to work in a lab/machine shop environment, including standing for extended periods

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