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Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral Jobs

South Dakota Mines

Postdoctoral Researcher

Rapid City, SD · On-site

$58K/yr

The postdoctoral researcher will primarily lead and support research in experimental rock mechanics ... D. in geological engineering, petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering ...

The Pennsylvania State University

The Postdoctoral Scholar will also mentor graduate students working in the area of semiconductor ... A PhD in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline ...

NorthEastern

Postdoctoral Research Associate

Boston, MA

$60K - $85K/yr

This is a full-time, fixed-term postdoctoral appointment within NanoSI. The position offers access ... PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a closely related ...

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Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral information

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How much do freelance mechanical engineering postdoctoral jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 30, 2026, the average yearly pay for freelance mechanical engineering postdoctoral in the United States is $54,223.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $53,500.00 and $56,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a freelance mechanical engineering postdoctoral?

A Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral position refers to a research role in mechanical engineering that is conducted independently without being tied to a single academic institution or employer. Individuals in this role often collaborate on a project basis with universities, research organizations, or private companies. This allows for greater flexibility, autonomy in research focus, and the opportunity to work on diverse projects. Freelance postdocs may handle their own funding, manage multiple contracts, and are responsible for networking to secure ongoing work.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a freelance mechanical engineering postdoctoral?

To thrive as a Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral, you need an advanced degree (PhD) in mechanical engineering, robust analytical skills, and a strong research background in your specialization. Experience with CAD software, simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, MATLAB), and familiarity with publishing platforms or grant writing is crucial. Strong project management, self-motivation, and clear communication skills set you apart in independent and client-driven environments. These abilities are essential for delivering high-quality research, managing multiple projects, and building a successful freelance reputation.

What are some common challenges faced by freelance mechanical engineering postdoctoral researchers, and how can they be addressed?

Freelance mechanical engineering postdoctoral researchers often face challenges such as securing consistent project work, managing their own schedules, and maintaining access to specialized equipment or software. Building a strong professional network and regularly reaching out to industry contacts can help in finding new opportunities. Additionally, collaborating with universities or research institutions can provide access to necessary resources and foster partnerships. Effective time management and clear communication with clients are key to delivering high-quality work on time.

What is the difference between Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectFreelance Mechanical Engineering PostdoctoralMechanical Engineer
CredentialsPhD in Mechanical Engineering or related fieldBachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentIndependent, project-based, often remoteCompany or manufacturing setting, team-based
Employer & Industry UsageAcademic institutions, research labs, consultingManufacturing, automotive, aerospace, product design
Search & Comparison IntentResearch, academic, specialized consultingIndustry roles, engineering projects

The main difference is that a Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral typically holds a PhD and works independently on research or consulting projects, often in academic or specialized settings. In contrast, a Mechanical Engineer usually has a bachelor's or master's degree and works within a company or industry environment on product development or manufacturing tasks.

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What are the most commonly searched types of Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral jobs?

The most popular types of Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral jobs are:

What states have the most Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral jobs?

States with the most job openings for Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral jobs include:

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The top searched job categories for Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral jobs are:

Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral jobs near you
Infographic showing various Freelance Mechanical Engineering Postdoctoral job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 4% Part Time, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 85% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,223 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Postdoctoral Researcher

South Dakota Mines

Rapid City, SD • On-site

$58K/yr

Full-time

Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 28 days ago

Job description

Posting Details
Posting Details
Logo
Institution
South Dakota Mines
Working Title
Postdoctoral Researcher
Posting Number
NFE03181P
Department
SDSMT-Geology & Geological Engineering 1
Physical Location of Position (City)
Rapid City
Posting Text
Position Summary
The Department of Geology and Geological Engineering at South Dakota Mines is seeking a highly motivated Postdoctoral Researcher to support a newly funded U.S. Department of Energy project focused on advanced sensing and characterization for critical minerals. The postdoctoral
researcher will primarily lead and support research in experimental rock mechanics, block-scale laboratory testing, and mechanical development of sensing tool prototypes. The position will involve close collaboration with an interdisciplinary team. This is a full-time, benefited position.
Primary Responsibilities
The successful candidate will contribute to the following activities:
  • Design, prepare, and characterize synthetic rock blocks for controlled laboratory experiments.
  • Develop and conduct block-scale experiments under relevant subsurface conditions.
  • Assist with the mechanical design, fabrication, assembly, and integration of downhole tools.
  • Design experimental fixtures, pressure chambers, tool housings, and other mechanical components.
  • Install and integrate sensors, instrumentation, data-acquisition, and experimental control components.
  • Contribute to technical reports, project meetings, journal publications, and conference presentations.

Required Qualifications
  • A Ph.D. in geological engineering, petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, geomechanics, rock mechanics, or a closely related field by the position start date.
  • Strong background in experimental rock mechanics, geomechanics, or rock-physics testing.
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience in laboratory experiment design, equipment operation, or experimental system development.
  • Ability to independently plan, conduct, troubleshoot, and document laboratory experiments.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and effectively within a multidisciplinary research team.

Preferred Qualifications
Experience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:
  • Preparation, casting, machining, or characterization of synthetic rocks, geomaterials, or ore analogs.
  • Mechanical design using SolidWorks, AutoCAD, or similar software.
  • Downhole tools, wireline logging systems, drilling tools, or subsurface instrumentation.
  • Prototype development, machining, fabrication, and assembly.
  • Sensors, data-acquisition, signal conditioning, control systems, or experimental automation.
  • Pressure vessels, sealing systems, high-pressure fluid systems, and mechanical testing fixtures.

To Apply:
Applications must be made online at https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu. South Dakota Mines is committed to recruiting and retaining a talented workforce and offers an excellent comprehensive benefits package for employees, spouses and dependents; retirement plans; paid holidays; and a generous vacation and sick day allowance. Human Resources can provide accommodation to the online application process and may be reached at (605) 394-1203 or hr@sdsmt.edu. Review of applications will begin August 28, 2026. Employment is contingent upon completion of a satisfactory background investigation.
Please attach a cover letter describing relevant research experience, technical qualifications, and interest; a current curriculum vitae; one to three selected publications or technical work samples; and a list of three professional references (include name and email address for each reference).
Posting Date
08/21/2026
Closing Date
Open Until Filled
Yes
First Consideration Date
08/28/2026
Advertised Salary
$58,000 depending on education and experience
Duration of the Term
12 months
If Other, describe duration
Appointment Percent
100
Work Hours
Typical Hours Worked Per Week
Appointment Type
Regular
Faculty Status
No
Scope of Search
External (includes Internal)
If internal, define scope of search
This position requires
Travel
If other, please indicate
Department Description and Cultural Expectations
Founded in 1885, South Dakota Mines is the premier destination for ambitious students seeking bachelor's, master's, or doctoral degrees in STEM fields. Our vibrant community of supportive faculty, tenacious students, and passionate alumni fosters a culture of ingenuity, collaboration, and lifelong success. South Dakota Mines is recognized frequently for its rigorous curriculum, groundbreaking research, and return on investment.
Rapid City, the home of the Hardrockers, is the state's second-largest city with an MSA population of nearly 160,000. The city is nestled next to the beautiful Black Hills, a region boasting breathtaking scenery, hundreds of miles of trails for outdoor enthusiasts, and attractions ranging from complex cave systems to historic towns and massive monuments.
Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
South Dakota Mines is an Equal Opportunity Employer. South Dakota Mines and the Board of Regents ensure that all employment practices are free of discrimination.
Contact Information

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