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Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Drive innovation through technical investigations QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE * BS degree in Mechanical Engineering. * Other degrees will be considered with relevant Design or Product Development ...

Drive innovation through technical investigations QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE * BS degree in Mechanical Engineering. * Other degrees will be considered with relevant Design or Product Development ...

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 ...

SR MECHANICAL ENGINEER

Columbia, TN

$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 ...

Participate in engineering research and testing activities to assess feasibility and performance of ... needed. * Assist with technical writing related to intellectual property, including disclosure ...

Support senior and mid-level R&D engineers in the development of new Motors and Generators tailored ... Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering with 0-5 years of experience in rotating ...

Engineer for Impact. Join Stryker's Surgical Technologies R&D team as a Staff Mechanical Engineer and help develop the next generation of surgical fluid and smoke management systems. As a senior ...

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 ...

Hybrid Shape the Future of Medical Innovation At Stryker, we're not just building products, we're transforming healthcare. As a Principal Mechanical Engineer for Stryker's Surgical Technologie's R&D ...

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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 Sep 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 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.

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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?

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Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Research Assistant job openings in the United States as of September 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,754 per year, or $42.7 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Reston, VA • On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 28 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 employees’ 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 company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” 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.