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Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering Jobs

Optics Research Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · Hybrid

$124K - $151K/yr

Optics Research Scientist Collaborate with innovative 3Mers around the world. This role offers an ... D. in Optical Sciences, Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering ...

S. or Ph.D. in Applied or Computational Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science ... A Research Scientist should have a record of academic excellence, including demonstrated experience ...

Optics Research Scientist

Saint Paul, MN · Hybrid

$124K - $151K/yr

Optics Research Scientist Collaborate with innovative 3Mers around the world. This role offers an ... D. in Optical Sciences, Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering ...

S. or Ph.D. in Applied or Computational Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science ... A Research Scientist should have a record of academic excellence, including demonstrated experience ...

S. or Ph.D. in Applied or Computational Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Computer Science ... A Research Scientist should have a record of academic excellence, including demonstrated experience ...

This role bridges fundamental molecular science with large-scale manufacturing and engineering applications. This is a hands-on, research-forward opportunity to develop a deep, mechanistic ...

This role bridges fundamental molecular science with large-scale manufacturing and engineering applications. This is a hands-on, research-forward opportunity to develop a deep, mechanistic ...

This role bridges fundamental molecular science with large-scale manufacturing and engineering applications. This is a hands-on, research-forward opportunity to develop a deep, mechanistic ...

... tissue engineering, or related life sciences expertise and an AI-first mindset to support ... Participate in research efforts exploring mechanisms underlying personalized neuromodulation ...

... tissue engineering, or related life sciences expertise and an AI-first mindset to support ... Participate in research efforts exploring mechanisms underlying personalized neuromodulation ...

... tissue engineering, or related life sciences expertise and an AI-first mindset to support ... Participate in research efforts exploring mechanisms underlying personalized neuromodulation ...

$120K - $190K/yr

We conduct pre-deployment testing on behalf of frontier developers such as OpenAI and independent ... Mechanistic Interpretability : Finding issues with Sparse Autoencoders, probing deception using ...

D. in Coastal Engineering, Oceanography, Civil/Environmental Engineering, Marine Science, Applied Mathematics, or closely related field Experience * Demonstrated record of peer-reviewed research and ...

Engineering • Full-time • San Francisco; New York Apply Our mission is to automate coding. The ... Research Scientist Cursor is building the future of coding. We train frontier coding agents and ...

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Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering information

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$37K

$106K

$142.5K

How much do entry level research scientist mechanical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level research scientist mechanical engineering in the United States is $106,012.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $104,000.00 and $104,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level research scientist mechanical engineering?

To excel as an Entry Level Research Scientist in Mechanical Engineering, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, data analysis, and experimental design, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's or master's degree. Familiarity with simulation tools like ANSYS or MATLAB, as well as laboratory instrumentation and CAD software, is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help you stand out in this role. These competencies ensure accurate research outcomes, efficient project collaboration, and meaningful contributions to innovative engineering solutions.

What are some common challenges an entry level research scientist mechanical engineering might face during their first year?

As an Entry Level Research Scientist in Mechanical Engineering, you may encounter challenges such as adapting to new laboratory protocols, mastering specialized research equipment, and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Collaborating with senior researchers and cross-disciplinary teams requires effective communication and a willingness to learn from feedback. Additionally, balancing hands-on experimentation with data analysis and documentation is crucial for success and professional growth in this role.

What does an entry level research scientist mechanical engineering do?

An Entry Level Research Scientist in Mechanical Engineering typically assists with designing, conducting, and analyzing experiments related to mechanical systems, materials, or processes. They may work on developing prototypes, testing new materials, or improving existing technologies under the supervision of senior scientists or engineers. Their responsibilities often include data collection, report writing, and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. This role is ideal for recent graduates who are looking to apply their engineering knowledge to innovative research projects.
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Infographic showing various Entry Level Research Scientist Mechanical Engineering job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 86% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,012 per year, or $51 per hour.

Optics Research Scientist

3M

Saint Paul, MN • Hybrid

$124K - $151K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


3M rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 244 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

160th of 537 rated manufacturers


Job description

Optics Research Scientist Collaborate with innovative 3Mers around the world. This role offers an opportunity for professionals with experience in private, public, government or military sectors to transition to a 3M career. The Impact You'll Make Leverage expertise to develop and advance optical materials technologies for new product commercialization opportunities. Protect 3M intellectual property through filing new patent applications and presenting at appropriate conferences. Collaborate with research teams from Corporate Research and Business Labs to develop capabilities and applications that use scientific, mathematical, and computational skills. Engage with 3M's international laboratories for technology and product transfers. Qualifications Ph.D. in Optical Sciences, Physics, Materials Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline (completed prior to start). Experience with software tools to develop optical modeling and simulation capabilities. Experience with CAD software and component design. Additional Qualifications Experience working with optical materials such as fiber optics, photonics, or optoelectronics; setting up experiments, collecting data in optical laboratories, and performing data analysis. Strong written and oral communication skills and ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams. Demonstrated work‐related leadership ability and accomplishments. Familiarity with the optical interconnect industry, key issues, major players, and trends. Work Location The role follows an on‐site working model, requiring the employee to work at least four days a week at the 3M Center in Maplewood, MN. Travel May include up to 10% domestic/international travel. Relocation Assistance May be authorized. Legal Requirements Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without sponsorship for employment visa status (e.g., H1B). Benefits 3M offers comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, health savings accounts, flexible spending accounts, disability benefits, life insurance, voluntary benefits, paid absences, retirement plans, and more. Compensation range is $124,127–$151,710 (base pay plus variable incentive pay, if eligible). Equal Employment Opportunity 3M does not discriminate in hiring or employment on the basis of race, color, sex, national origin, religion, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr


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