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Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant Jobs in Silver Spring, MD

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) has an outstanding opportunity for an exceptional Senior Mechanical Engineer to support on-going ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$130K - $190K/yr

Job Title Senior Mechanical Engineer Location Bethesda, MD 20800 US (Primary) Category Research ... Mechanical engineers rely on computers to assist them in efficiently performing computations, and ...

Research Assistant

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$21 - $31/hr

Research Assistant will assist with user testing and user centered design of biometric technologies ... Mastery of programming languages (Python, Java, C++, C, R) and command-line scripting. โ€ข ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA ยท On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) has an outstanding opportunity for an exceptional Senior Mechanical Engineer to support on-going ...

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Bethesda, MD ยท On-site

$85 - $110/hr

Mechanical engineers research, develop, design, manufacture, and test tools, engines, machines, and ... Mechanical engineers rely on computers to assist them in efficiently performing computations, and ...

Mechanical Engineer

Ashburn, VA ยท On-site

$125K - $165K/yr

Toyon is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to support a critical infrastructure protection program. In ... Toyon Research Corporation will consider the individual candidate's education, work experience ...

Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Mission-Critical Infrastructure, Secure Facilities, R&D, and Specialized HVAC Work Setting: In ... Lead and assist in the full design process including HVAC load calculations, system sizing ...

Mechanical Engineer Who We Are To accomplish their goals, the world's leading scientists, research ... * Assist in the assembly and testing of various pieces of hardware with junior and senior ...

Mechanical Engineer

Springfield, VA ยท On-site

$64K - $128K/yr

... research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and ... Additionally, the engineer will assist the Program Manager with technical, cost, and schedule ...

Mechanical Engineer

Springfield, VA ยท On-site

$64K - $128K/yr

... research, ubiquitous technical surveillance, data intelligence, lifecycle mission enablement, and ... Additionally, the engineer will assist the Program Manager with technical, cost, and schedule ...

Mechanical Engineer

Chantilly, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $120K/yr

Mission-Critical Infrastructure, Secure Facilities, R&D, and Specialized HVAC Work Setting: In ... Lead and assist in the full design process including HVAC load calculations, system sizing ...

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Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant information

See Silver Spring, MD salary details

$34.1K

$91.8K

$139K

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer research assistant in Silver Spring, MD is $91,752.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $72,900.00 and $108,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical engineer research assistant?

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 are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD?

For Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD look for?

The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs in Silver Spring, MD are:

What cities near Silver Spring, MD are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs?

Cities near Silver Spring, MD with the most Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant job openings in Silver Spring, MD as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 90% In-person, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,752 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berriehill Research

Reston, VA โ€ข On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

The Capabilities, Analysis and Development (CAD) division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) has an outstanding opportunity for an exceptional Senior Mechanical Engineer to support on-going research and development efforts and develop new business in technologies for functional characterization of WMD facilities and their associated design. Are you a mechanical engineer virtuoso with a passion for engineering the world? Join us as a Senior Mechanical Engineer and become a key player in characterizing large-scale and small-scale mechanical, commercial, and institutional projects? If you thrive on tackling complex challenges and driving innovation in reverse engineering mechanical processes, this is the opportunity you've been waiting for.

The successful candidate will:

  • Innovative Design and Development:
    • Characterize the structure and operation of WMD facilities, some of which are clandestine.
    • Conduct reverse engineering.
    • Engineer precise load calculations, system sizing, and performance predictions.
    • Create and refine detailed technical drawings and schematics.
  • Dynamic Project Management:
    • Spearhead projects from vision to reality, delivering on time and within budget.
    • Collaborate seamlessly with project managers, architects, and contractors.
    • Present compelling project reports and updates to stakeholders.
  • Cutting-Edge System Analysis and Optimization:
    • Dive deep into mechanical engineering analysis to uncover fault exploitation opportunities.
    • Advance reverse engineering capabilities.
  • Inspiring Leadership and Development:
    • Mentor and inspire junior engineers and technicians.
    • Foster a collaborative, innovative, and continuous learning environment.
    • Stay ahead of industry trends and emerging technologies.

Required Qualifications:

  • Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering or similar
  • Demonstrated ability to work effectively within or lead a team of peers, as well as excellent interpersonal and communications skills
  • Ability to communicate highly technical analyses at a level comprehensible to laymen and senior-level government representatives
  • Must be a US Citizen
  • Ability to clearly express in writing technical analysis results
  • 6-8 years of experience in solving DoD or Industry mechanical engineering problems
  • Practical experience in mechanical engineering
  • Research and Development of new tools and methodologies to understand and reverse engineer processes and support systems at remote WMD-related facilities
  • TS clearance

Desired Qualifications:

  • 10 years of experience in solving DoD engineering/science problems
  • TS clearance with eligibility for SCI based on single-scope background investigation
  • Military or defense-related experience and an understanding of operational planning and functional defeat of hard targets and underground facilities

Compensation & Benefits: Pay Range: $110,000 - 150,000.00 per year, based on years of experience, education, and any specialized skills or knowledge brought to the position. ARA offers competitive benefits designed to support our employeesโ€™ needs now and in the future. Learn more about our benefits at https://www.ara.com/benefits/.

COMPANY INFORMATION:

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 1200 professionals. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership fosters greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the companyโ€™s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, โ€œEngineering and Science for Fun and Profitโ€ sums up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com.

Please apply at www.careers.ara.com for the Senior Mechanical Engineer position.