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Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Worcester Polytech

Research Assistant

Worcester, MA

$21/hr

JOB TITLE Research Assistant LOCATION Worcester DEPARTMENT NAME Mechanical & Materials Engineering - JM DIVISION NAME Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI SUMMARY Multiple PhD Research Assistant ...

Oakland University

Research Assistant

Rochester, MI · On-site

$15/hr

Posting Details Posting Details Position Title Research Assistant Department 2102 - Mechanical Engineering Position Number E21758 Requisition No. TC06313 Salary Range/Pay Rate $15.00/hr. Benefits of ...

University of Colorado

Mechanical Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$51K - $62K/yr

The Professional Research Assistant will provide technical and operational support for experimental equipment and research infrastructure. The role involves diagnosing and repairing mechanical and ...

Juul Labs

Senior Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA

$123K - $162K/yr

The Senior Mechanical Engineer, R&D will be joining an incredibly talented group of mechanical engineers on our R&D team tasked with bringing new products and major product improvements to market for ...

Juul Labs

Senior Mechanical Engineer

San Francisco, CA · On-site

$123K - $162K/yr

The Senior Mechanical Engineer, R&D will be joining an incredibly talented group of mechanical engineers on our R&D team tasked with bringing new products and major product improvements to market for ...

Apptronik

Staff Mechanical Engineer - R&D

Austin, TX · On-site

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 ...

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Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant information

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$33K

$88.8K

$134.5K

How much do mechanical engineer research assistant jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 11, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer research assistant in the United States is $88,754.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,500.00 and $104,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant, and why are they important?

Mechanical Engineer Research Assistants need a solid grounding in mechanical engineering principles, data analysis, and laboratory techniques, typically supported by a relevant bachelor's degree or progressing towards one. Familiarity with CAD software (such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD), simulation tools (like ANSYS or MATLAB), and laboratory instrumentation is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication skills help set candidates apart. These competencies are vital for supporting research projects, ensuring accurate data collection and analysis, and contributing to innovative engineering solutions.

What are some common challenges faced by Mechanical Engineer Research Assistants, and how can they be addressed?

Mechanical Engineer Research Assistants often face challenges such as adapting to rapidly changing project requirements, managing tight deadlines, and learning new technical tools or software quickly. To overcome these, it's helpful to maintain open communication with supervisors and team members, stay organized with task lists and project management tools, and proactively seek out training or mentorship when encountering unfamiliar topics. Building strong collaboration skills and being flexible in day-to-day responsibilities can significantly ease transitions and contribute to successful research outcomes.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineer Research AssistantMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field; some research experienceBachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering; professional licensure optional
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, or corporate R&D departmentsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, or project sites
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, R&D divisions of companiesManufacturing firms, engineering consultancies, industrial companies

The main difference is that a Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant primarily supports research projects and data collection, often in academic or research settings, while a Mechanical Engineer focuses on designing, analyzing, and implementing engineering solutions in industry. The research assistant role is more focused on supporting research activities, whereas the Mechanical Engineer role involves applying engineering principles to develop products and systems.

What does a Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant do?

A Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant supports research projects in the field of mechanical engineering by conducting experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and helping to design prototypes or systems. They work closely with senior engineers and researchers to develop new materials, products, or processes. Their tasks may include running simulations, preparing technical reports, and maintaining laboratory equipment. This role is vital for advancing technology and innovation within mechanical engineering research.
More about Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant job openings:
What states have the most Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs are:
Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, and 21% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $88,754 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Research Assistant

Worcester Polytech

Worcester, MA

$21/hr

Part-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

JOB TITLE

Research Assistant

LOCATION

Worcester

DEPARTMENT NAME

Mechanical & Materials Engineering - JM

DIVISION NAME

Worcester Polytechnic Institute - WPI

JOB DESCRIPTION SUMMARY

Multiple PhD Research Assistant positions are available in the Multiscale Thermal Fluids Laboratory (MTFL) within the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI). These are immediate openings, and priority will be given to applicants who can begin the program right away.
Compensation: $21/hourly. This position is supported through external funding.

JOB DESCRIPTION

Project 1: Droplet Dynamics

This project involves the experimental study of sessile droplet behavior in shear gas flows, using high-speed imaging and image processing techniques.

Project 2: Energy Analysis of Commercial Buildings

This project focuses on the energy performance analysis of commercial buildings in the region, with the broader goal of promoting clean energy systems.

Both projects fall under the overarching theme of clean energy research.

The Mechanical and Materials Engineering Department at WPI enrolls approximately 1,000 undergraduate and 200 graduate students. WPI is located in Worcester, MA, a dynamic and growing city just one hour from Boston.

Eligibility Requirements:

  • Project 1: Applicants must hold a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Chemical Engineering, with experience in experimental fluid dynamics and image processing.

  • Project 2: Applicants must hold a BS or MS in Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, or Architectural Engineering.

Application Instructions:

Interested applicants should include the following documents: Contact Dr. Mehdi Mortazavi (mmortazavi@wpi.edu) for any inquires:

  • Complete resume (PDF format)

  • BS and MS transcripts

  • GRE and TOEFL scores (for international applicants)

  • Names and email addresses of three references

Additional Information:

Details about Dr. Mortazavi's research can be found at:https://wp.wpi.edu/mtfl/

FLSA STATUS

United States of America (Non-Exempt)

WPI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified candidates will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status,or disability. It seeks individuals from all backgrounds and experiences who will contribute to a culture of creativity, collaboration, inclusion, problem solving, innovation, high performance, and change making.It is committed to maintaining a campus environment free of harassment and discrimination.

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