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Mechanical Engineer Student Jobs (NOW HIRING)

$86K - $129K/yr

CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with ... POSITION SPECIFICS The Mechanical Systems & Design Department under the Engineering Systems ...

The Mechanical Engineer will provide, revise or extend mechanical systems for new construction and ... Our robust internship program recognizes undergraduate and graduate students from across the world ...

The Mechanical Engineer will provide, revise or extend mechanical systems for new construction and ... Our robust internship program recognizes undergraduate and graduate students from across the world ...

The Mechanical Support Department of the Accelerator Division within Fermilab is seeking a ... Occasionally direct the activities of co-op engineering students and interns on their projects.

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Mechanical Engineer Student information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do mechanical engineer student jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineer student in the United States is $102,878.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,500.00 and $126,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a Mechanical Engineer Student do?

A Mechanical Engineer Student is someone currently studying mechanical engineering, typically at a college or university. Their main responsibilities include attending lectures, completing laboratory assignments, working on engineering projects, and gaining foundational knowledge in physics, mathematics, and engineering principles. They may also participate in internships or cooperative education programs to gain hands-on industry experience. The goal is to prepare for a future career as a professional mechanical engineer by developing problem-solving, design, and technical skills.

How Can I Get a Job as a Mechanical Engineer Student?

If you want to get a job as a mechanical engineer student, you need a bachelor’s degree in a field like mechanical engineering or mechanical engineering technology. Some internships or temporary roles require you to be currently enrolled in a university or college program, while others require a bachelor’s degree as part of their minimum qualifications. Computer skills, particularly in AutoCAD and Microsoft Office, are essential in an internship program. You work under supervision, but you must possess entry-level abilities in engineering processes. Mechanical engineering student jobs often turn into full-time roles upon graduation or completion of a specific educational program.

What types of projects or responsibilities can a Mechanical Engineer Student expect during an internship or co-op?

As a Mechanical Engineer Student in an internship or co-op role, you can expect to work on a mix of hands-on and analytical tasks such as assisting with CAD modeling, conducting basic tests, supporting prototype development, and performing data analysis. You may also help prepare technical documentation or reports and collaborate closely with engineers and technicians on ongoing projects. This experience offers exposure to real-world engineering challenges and provides valuable opportunities to develop both technical and teamwork skills while learning from experienced professionals.

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

To thrive as a Mechanical Engineer Student, you need a solid grasp of mathematics, physics, and engineering fundamentals, typically supported by enrollment in an accredited mechanical engineering program. Familiarity with CAD software (such as AutoCAD or SolidWorks), simulation tools, and basic programming is often required. Strong problem-solving abilities, teamwork, and effective communication skills help you excel in both academic and project-based settings. These skills and qualities are essential for successfully tackling coursework, collaborating on design projects, and preparing for a future professional engineering career.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineer Student vs Mechanical Engineering Intern?

AspectMechanical Engineer StudentMechanical Engineering Intern
CredentialsEnrolled in mechanical engineering programEnrolled or recent graduate, often with some coursework completed
Work EnvironmentClassroom, labs, university projectsCompany offices, manufacturing plants, engineering teams
Employer & Industry UsageEducational institutions, research projectsEngineering firms, manufacturing companies, industrial sectors
Common Search & ComparisonLearning phase, academic focusPractical experience, entry-level work

Mechanical Engineer Students are primarily focused on their education and academic projects, while Mechanical Engineering Interns gain practical industry experience through internships. Internships often lead to full-time roles, whereas students are still completing their degrees. Both roles are essential for career development in mechanical engineering.

What cities are hiring for Mechanical Engineer Student jobs? Cities with the most Mechanical Engineer Student job openings:
What states have the most Mechanical Engineer Student jobs? States with the most job openings for Mechanical Engineer Student jobs include:
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineer Student job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 63% Full Time, 36% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.
Mechanical Engineer

$86K - $129K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 19 days ago


Job description

APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS:
  • CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to Workday to complete the internal application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • CURRENT PENN STATE STUDENT (not employed previously at the university) and seeking employment with Penn State, please login to Workday to complete the student application process. Please do not apply here, apply internally through Workday.
  • If you are NOT a current employee or student, please click "Apply" and complete the application process for external applicants.

Approval of remote and hybrid work is not guaranteed regardless of work location.For additional information on remote work at Penn State, seeNotice to Out of State Applicants.

POSITION SPECIFICS

The Mechanical Systems & Design Department under the Engineering Systems Research and Development Division within the Undersea Systems Office (USO) of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University is seeking motivated and talented Mechanical Engineers whose primary tasking will be to design, analyze, build, and test mechanical hardware for undersea applications. Candidates must be able to demonstrate proficient and comprehensive knowledge of the principles and best practices of mechanical design.

ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You Will:

  • Analyze requirements, identify problems, and develop innovative solution concepts

  • Design structures, mechanisms, actuation systems, and bearing systems

  • Work with drafting to create and approve drawings

  • Develop assembly and test procedures

  • Work with technicians to perform assembly and testing of systems and subsystems

  • Support field testing

Required skills/experiences include:

  • 3D CAD design and engineering drawing development (Siemens NX preferred)

  • Read and interpret mechanical drawings

  • Completing free body diagrams; using hand calculations to calculate forces and resultant stresses on structures

  • Development of test plans and procedures

  • Effective verbal and written communication and presentation skills

  • Current active Secret level clearance, or higher

Preferred experience includes:

  • Structural or thermal finite element analysis

Your working locations will be fully on-site located in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Candidate may be subject to a government background investigation to upgrade clearance eligibility, if required.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

Bachelor's Degree - Engineering or Science 2+ years of relevant experience Required Certifications: None

ARL's purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC).

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.All positions at ARL require candidates topossess the ability to obtain a government security clearance; you will be notified during the interview process if this position is subject to a government background investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the ARL will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.

SALARY & BENEFITS

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades, is $86,300.00 - $129,500.00.**THE PROPOSED SALARY RANGE MAY BE IMPACTED BY GEOGRAPHIC DIFFERENTIAL**

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.

CAMPUS SECURITY CRIME STATISTICS

Pursuant to the Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Security Policy and Campus Crime Statistics Act and the Pennsylvania Act of 1988, Penn State publishes a combined Annual Security and Annual Fire Safety Report (ASR). The ASR includes crime statistics and institutional policies concerning campus security, such as those concerning alcohol and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault, and other matters. The ASR is available for review here.

EEO IS THE LAW

Penn State is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability or protected veteran status. If you are unable to use our online application process due to an impairment or disability, please contact 814-865-1473.

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About Pennsylvania State University

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Pennsylvania State University, often referred to as Penn State, is a major, public, research-intensive university located in University Park, PA, US. This esteemed institution serves as an important player within the education industry, offering a plethora of academic programs across various disciplines. The university was founded in 1855 with the mission to provide quality education, advanced research, and service to society. Penn State holds firmly to values of integrity, respect, and excellence, fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is renowned for its research productivity and its high-ranking programs in areas like engineering, business, and education. One notable achievement of the institution is its designation as a "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," demonstrating its commitment to scholarship and discovery.

Industry

Education

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

University Park, PA, US

Year founded

1855

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