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Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Berriehill Research

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA · 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 ...

J C FORD COMPANY

SR MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Columbia, TN · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

Summary: The R&D Senior Mechanical Engineer performs hands-on product design, computer analysis, and technical development for new capital machinery products and technologies using successful ...

ARi

Project Engineer - Mechanical

East Peoria, IL

Apply mechanical engineering principles for the assigned projects. Integrate 9 to 18 liters ... Research Assistant or related. The Benefits of Working at ARi If you work for ARi, we ensure the ...

J C FORD COMPANY

SR MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Columbia, TN · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

Summary: The R&D Senior Mechanical Engineer performs hands-on product design, computer analysis, and technical development for new capital machinery products and technologies using successful ...

J C FORD COMPANY

SR MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Columbia, TN · On-site

$89K - $118K/yr

Summary: The R&D Senior Mechanical Engineer performs hands-on product design, computer analysis, and technical development for new capital machinery products and technologies using successful ...

Stryker

Staff Mechanical Engineer, R&D

Portage, MI · On-site

$89K - $148K/yr

As a Staff Mechanical Engineer in our Research & Development team, you will support multiple business units across the organization by leading the design and development of life-changing devices that ...

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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 Aug 13, 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?

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.
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Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,754 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Staff Mechanical Engineer - R&D

Apptronik

Austin, TX • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 22 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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