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Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mechanical Engineer - R&D Robotics

Santa Clara, CA · On-site

$125K - $201K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Job Function: R&D Product Development Job Sub Function: R&D Mechanical Engineering Job Category: Scientific/Technology All Job Posting Locations: Santa Clara, California, United States of America The ...

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

Mechanical Engineer

West Monroe, LA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

SUMMARY: Under general supervision, the Mechanical Engineer provides engineering support and ... Provide technical solutions to customers that involve engineering research impacting * product ...

New

Senior Mechanical Engineer, R&D

Somerville, MA · On-site

$128K - $168K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • PTO

As part of the R&D team, you will own experimental hardware from concept through validation, partnering closely with other mechanical engineers, battery engineers, and materials scientists to de-risk ...

Research Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Research Assistant The part-time Research Assistant supports the planning, coordination, and ... Programming Coordination and Logistics * Researches, in collaboration with Center staff, topics and ...

Research Assistant

New York, NY · On-site

$21 - $29/hr

Research Assistant The part-time Research Assistant supports the planning, coordination, and ... Programming Coordination and Logistics * Researches, in collaboration with Center staff, topics and ...

Mechanical Engineer, R&D

Austin, TX · On-site

$169K - $208K/yr

Engineer the mechanical systems in the reference design: cooling distribution, piping, and heat rejection for modular units. * Run the calcs: hydraulics, heat transfer, and equipment sizing owned end ...

Showing results 41-60

Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant information

See salary details

$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.
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:

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.

Senior Mechanical Engineer - R&D Robotics

Johnson & Johnson

Santa Clara, CA • On-site

$125K - $201K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Johnson & Johnson rating

8.3

Company rating: 8.3 out of 10

Based on 112 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 86 rated pharmaceutical


Job description

At Johnson & Johnson,we believe health is everything. Our strength in healthcare innovation empowers us to build aworld where complex diseases are prevented, treated, and cured,where treatments are smarter and less invasive, andsolutions are personal.Through our expertise in Innovative Medicine and MedTech, we are uniquely positioned to innovate across the full spectrum of healthcare solutions today to deliver the breakthroughs of tomorrow, and profoundly impact health for humanity.Learn more at jnj.com

As guided by Our Credo, Johnson & Johnson is responsible to our employees who work with us throughout the world. We provide an inclusive work environment where each person is considered as an individual. At Johnson & Johnson, we respect the diversity and dignity of our employees and recognize their merit.

Job Function:

R&D Product Development

Job Sub Function:

R&D Mechanical Engineering

Job Category:

Scientific/Technology

All Job Posting Locations:

Santa Clara, California, United States of America

Job Description:

The Robotics and Digital solutions (RAD) group, part of the Johnson & Johnson family of companies, is recruiting for a Senior Mechanical Engineer for the Ottava R&D Team. This position is located in Santa Clara, CA.

What We Do:

The Ottava R&D team envisions a future for robotic intervention that is targeted, minimally invasive, and personalized. Building upon a deep understanding of patient and physician needs, we are developing a platform for the next evolution of soft-tissue robotic care.

Who We Are:

We are a team of mechanical, electrical, mechatronics, robotic controls, software, and clinical engineers who are passionate about improving patient care. The team includes a wide range of experience levels from junior engineers to industry experts. We follow an iterative design approach to product development that requires us to collaborate closely across clinical, capital hardware, and instruments & accessories teams. We value autonomy and empower each other to take action while remaining a supportive and closely knit team. We take pride in our culture and are committed to building an environment that is inclusive and promotes diversity of thought through varied experiences and backgrounds.

You:

As a member of the Ottava R&D team you will join us on our journey to design and build one of the world's most advanced medical robotic platforms. You will work alongside all engineering functions to make significant contributions to the mechanical design of our capital hardware including (but not limited to) custom actuator design, structural design, and sensor development. This role offers a high degree of autonomy and opportunities for growth within the team as we progress towards realizing our vision.

Performance Objectives and Responsibilities:
  • Design and develop robotic capital hardware for use in surgical room environments

  • Iterate quickly on proof-of-concept prototypes, implement long term commercial design solutions, and engage with vendors

  • Provide design recommendations to the engineering team regarding the feasibility and soundness of proposed engineering tests, products, and equipment

  • Develop novel technologies for human-robot interaction by closely collaborating with software and robotic and controls engineers, clinical engineers and physicians

  • Participate in multi-functional discussions and design reviews

  • Take part in clinical procedure labs and procedural development activities

  • Provide mentorship and guidance to junior mechanical engineers

Qualifications

Required Knowledge/Skills, Education, And Experience:

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field with 5+ years of experience developing mechanical hardware, or an advanced degree with 3+ years of experience developing mechanical hardware.

  • Deep knowledge of mechanical engineering fundamentals (e.g. mechanisms, materials, strength of materials, FEA, GD&T).

  • Extensive experience designing and bringing robotic hardware solutions to market.

  • Experience using SolidWorks (or equivalent CAD package) including the ability to create models, assemblies, and detailed drawings, following best design practices and ASME standards

Preferred Knowledge/Skills, Education, And Experience:

  • Experience in Robotic and/or Medical Device industry.

The anticipated base pay range for this position is $125,000.00 to $201,250.00

The Company maintains highly competitive, performance-based compensation programs. Under current guidelines, this position is eligible for an annual performance bonus in accordance with the terms of the applicable plan. The annual performance bonus is a cash bonus intended to provide an incentive to achieve annual targeted results by rewarding for individual and the corporation's performance over a calendar/performance year. Bonuses are awarded at the Company's discretion on an individual basis.

Employees and/or eligible dependents may be eligible to participate in the following Company sponsored employee benefit programs: medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short- and long-term disability, business accident insurance, and group legal insurance.

Employees may be eligible to participate in the Company's consolidated retirement plan (pension) and savings plan (401(k)).

This position is eligible to participate in the Company's long-term incentive program.

Employees are eligible for the following time off benefits:

  • Vacation - up to 120 hours per calendar year

  • Sick time - up to 40 hours per calendar year

  • Holiday pay, including Floating Holidays - up to 13 days per calendar year

  • Work, Personal and Family Time - up to 40 hours per calendar year

For additional general information on Company benefits, please go to:https://www.careers.jnj.com/employee-benefits

Johnson & Johnson is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local law. We actively seek qualified candidates who are protected veterans and individuals with disabilities as defined under VEVRAA and Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Johnson & Johnson is committed to providing an interview process that is inclusive of our applicants' needs. If you are an individual with a disability and would like to request an accommodation,external applicants please contact us viahttps://www.jnj.com/contact-us/careers. internal employees contact AskGS to be directed to your accommodation resource.

Required Skills:

Geometric Dimensioning And Tolerancing (GD&T), Hardware Development, Mechanical Design, Mechanism Design

Preferred Skills:

Business Case Modeling, Coaching, Critical Thinking, Design Thinking, Feasibility Studies, Mechanical Engineering, Problem Solving, Process Oriented, Product Design, Product Development, Project Management Methodology (PMM), Project Support, Research and Development, SAP Product Lifecycle Management, Technical Credibility, Technical Writing, Technologically Savvy

The anticipated base pay range for this position is :

$125,000.00 - $201,250.00

Additional Description for Pay Transparency:


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