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Mechanical Engineering Research Jobs in Washington

ARA

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Alexandria, VA · On-site

$111.80K - $147.70K/yr

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 ...

Lynk

Mechanical Engineering Intern

Chantilly, VA · On-site

$19.25 - $25.75/hr

We are hiring Mechanical Engineer Interns with a BS, Masters, or PhD across the following ... At least 6 months of project experience with lab research, extracurricular project teams, personal ...

AEVEX

Mechanical Engineer 3

Washington, DC

Job Overview A Mechanical Engineer 3 is responsible for designing, analyzing, and improving ... Plan and perform engineering research, design, and development in conformance with design ...

Prescient Edge

Mid Mechanical Engineering

Bethesda, MD · On-site

Job Title Mid Mechanical Engineering Location Bethesda, MD 20800 US (Primary) Category Research, Development, and Engineering Job Type Full-Time Career Level Staff Education Bachelor's Degree Travel ...

AEVEX

Mechanical Engineer 2

Washington, DC · On-site

Job Overview A Mechanical Engineer 2 is responsible for designing, analyzing, and improving ... Support the planning and performing engineering research, design, and development in conformance ...

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Mechanical Engineering Research information

See Washington salary details

$51.5K

$116.5K

$188.6K

How much do mechanical engineering research jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical engineering research in Washington is $116,519.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $92,300.00 and $143,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Mechanical Engineering Research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Mechanical Engineering Research, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, advanced mathematics, and often a graduate degree in engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS or MATLAB, and experience with laboratory equipment are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and clear technical communication set outstanding researchers apart. These skills ensure rigorous, innovative research and effective collaboration, which are vital for advancing technology and solving complex engineering challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in mechanical engineering research roles?

Mechanical engineering research professionals often encounter challenges such as balancing theoretical analysis with experimental validation, managing tight project timelines, and staying current with rapidly evolving technologies. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams is frequent, so strong communication skills are crucial for integrating input from different fields. Additionally, securing funding for research and publishing results in reputable journals can be competitive, requiring persistence and adaptability.

What is mechanical engineering research?

Mechanical engineering research involves the systematic investigation and development of new technologies, materials, processes, or methods within the field of mechanical engineering. Researchers in this area work to solve complex engineering problems, improve existing mechanical systems, and innovate in areas like robotics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science. The goal is to advance knowledge and contribute to technological progress in industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing.

What is the difference between Mechanical Engineering Research vs Mechanical Design Engineer?

AspectMechanical Engineering ResearchMechanical Design Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; often requires research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering; focus on design skills
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, research facilities, academic or corporate R&D centersDesign studios, manufacturing plants, engineering firms
Primary FocusDeveloping new theories, materials, or technologiesCreating and testing mechanical components and systems
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, R&D departmentsProduct development, manufacturing, engineering consulting

Mechanical Engineering Research involves exploring new concepts and technologies in labs, often within academic or corporate R&D settings. In contrast, Mechanical Design Engineers focus on designing, prototyping, and refining mechanical systems for practical application. Both roles require a strong foundation in mechanical engineering but differ in their primary objectives and work environments.

What are popular job titles related to Mechanical Engineering Research jobs in Washington? For Mechanical Engineering Research jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Mechanical Engineering Research jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Mechanical Engineering Research jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Mechanical Engineering Research jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Mechanical Engineering Research job openings:
Mechanical Engineering Research jobs near you
Infographic showing various Mechanical Engineering Research job openings in Washington as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 81% Full Time, 12% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $116,519 per year, or $56 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

Berriehill Research

Alexandria, VA

$111.70K - $147.50K/yr

Full-time

Posted 14 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

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.

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