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Mechanical Research Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

POSITION SPECIFICS We are searching for a Mechanical Research and Development Engineer to join the Expeditionary Manufacturing and Repair Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn ...

R10093909R10093909 Research Engineer, Mechanical (Open)Location:Newark, DE (ICD) - R&D - Customer ProcessesThe Innovation and Development Division (IDD) drives the innovation strategy for the Hubs ...

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R10093909 Research Engineer, Mechanical (Open) Location: Newark, DE (ICD) - R&D - Customer Processes The Innovation and Development Division (IDD) drives the innovation strategy for the Hubs and ...

$90 - $115/hr

Research Engineer (Mechanical / Electromechanical) - 1644 Full Time Colorado Springs, CO, US 3 days ago Requisition ID: 1644 Scientific Applications & Research Associates, Inc. (SARA) is a world ...

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Mechanical Research Engineer information

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$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do mechanical research engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for mechanical research engineer 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 research engineer do?

A Mechanical Research Engineer is responsible for designing, developing, and testing new mechanical devices and systems. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and use advanced software to improve product performance and efficiency. Their work often involves collaborating with other engineers and scientists to innovate and solve complex engineering problems. Mechanical Research Engineers play a crucial role in advancing technology in fields like automotive, aerospace, energy, and manufacturing.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a mechanical research engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Mechanical Research Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical engineering principles, analytical problem-solving, and typically a bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS, and experience with lab equipment or research-specific certifications are commonly required. Strong communication, creativity, and teamwork are crucial soft skills for sharing findings and driving innovation. These skills enable engineers to develop effective solutions, collaborate on research projects, and advance technological progress in their field.

What are some common challenges mechanical research engineers face when transitioning from academia to industry roles?

Mechanical Research Engineers moving from academia to industry often encounter challenges such as adapting to faster project timelines, prioritizing commercially viable solutions over purely theoretical work, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams. In industry, there is a stronger emphasis on meeting client requirements, cost-effectiveness, and product manufacturability, which may differ from academic research priorities. Building effective communication and project management skills is essential to succeed in these dynamic work environments.

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

AspectMechanical Research EngineerMechanical Design Engineer
Primary FocusDeveloping new theories, materials, and prototypes through researchCreating detailed designs and specifications for manufacturing
Work EnvironmentLaboratories, R&D centers, academic settingsDesign offices, manufacturing plants, CAD environments
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, research experienceBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering, CAD proficiency

Mechanical Research Engineers focus on exploring new concepts and materials, often working in labs or research settings. Mechanical Design Engineers concentrate on designing and developing products for manufacturing. Both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, but their daily tasks and environments differ significantly.

More about Mechanical Research Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Mechanical Research Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Mechanical Research Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Mechanical Research Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Mechanical Research Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Mechanical Research Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 84% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Sr. Principal Mechanical Research Engineer

Vertiv Co

Delaware, OH

Full-time

Re-posted 4 days ago


Vertiv rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 66 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

372nd of 495 rated machine equipment manufacturers


Job description

Job Summary

Vertiv is seeking a visionary Sr. Principal Mechanical Research Engineer with a strong foundation in mechanical engineering and material science to drive advanced research in IT rack systems. Based in Delaware, Ohio, this role focuses on blue-sky projects aimed at exploring breakthrough technologies that could redefine IT rack systems and infrastructure over the next 15 years or more.

The ideal candidate will bring a deep technical expertise in mechanical engineering and materials, combined with a creative approach to long-term research. Experience with or knowledge of physical infrastructure systems is beneficial. This role offers the opportunity to spearhead innovative research, collaborate with industry experts, and shape future IT rack technologies that can support evolving infrastructure needs.

This is an exciting opportunity for a seasoned professional to push the boundaries of power engineering and be at the forefront of technology development. If you have a passion for innovation and a desire to make a significant impact in the future of UPS systems, we encourage you to apply!

Responsibilities:

  • Lead advanced, long-term research initiatives focused on IT rack design, with an emphasis on material innovation, structural integrity, and thermal efficiency.
  • Conduct blue-sky research on next-generation rack materials and structural designs, identifying technologies and concepts that address future requirements for performance, durability, and sustainability.
  • Develop prototypes, models, and simulations to validate new ideas and support technology feasibility studies.
  • Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams, including product development, engineering, and infrastructure teams, to ensure alignment of research objectives with overall company vision and market trends.
  • Explore innovative approaches to rack design that incorporate advanced materials, weight reduction, environmental sustainability, and compatibility with evolving data center architectures.
  • Publish technical papers, file patents, and present findings to internal stakeholders and external audiences, contributing to the organization's knowledge base and thought leadership.
  • Identify and collaborate with external research institutions, industry partners, and academic organizations to leverage additional expertise and insights.
  • Mentor and guide junior engineers, fostering a culture of curiosity, creativity, and technical excellence within the research team.

Requirements:

  • Minimum of 5 years of experience in mechanical engineering, material science, or advanced research in related fields.
  • Master's or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field.
  • Expertise in material science as applied to mechanical design, with experience in advanced materials, composites, or sustainable materials.
  • Familiarity with IT rack systems or related mechanical infrastructure components is a plus.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with proficiency in modeling and simulation tools.
  • Demonstrated ability to conceptualize and validate transformative ideas in mechanical design and materials applications.
  • Strong communication and presentation skills, with a track record of published research or patents.
  • Ability to work both independently and collaboratively, engaging with cross-functional teams and external partners effectively.
  • Office and electrical lab environment. 
  • Must be comfortable working in an electronics lab performing or guiding experiments.
  • Preferred Qualifications:
    • Knowledge of thermal management principles as applied to rack design.
    • Familiarity with emerging trends in physical infrastructure systems, including modular designs and space efficiency.
    • Experience in long-term research with a focus on sustainability and future technology applications.

WHY JOIN VERTIV

  • Opportunity to lead advanced research initiatives and shape the future of UPS technologies.
  • Work on blue-sky projects that drive innovation and make a lasting impact on the industry.
  • Collaborate with a team of world-class engineers and researchers.
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
  • A supportive environment that encourages professional growth and continuous learning.

#LI-RB1

The successful candidate will embrace Vertiv's Core Principles & Behaviors to help execute our Strategic Priorities.

OUR CORE PRINCIPLES: Safety. Integrity. Respect. Teamwork. Inclusion.

OUR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

High-Performance Culture

Customer Focus

Operational Excellence

Innovation

Financial Strength

VERTIV BEHAVIORS

Own it

Act with urgency

Foster a customer-first mindset

Think big and execute

Lead by example

Drive continuous improvement

Learn and seek out development

Promote transparent & open communication

About Vertiv

Vertiv (NYSE: VRT) brings together hardware, software, analytics and ongoing services to enable its customers' vital applications to run continuously, perform optimally and grow with their business needs. Vertiv solves the most important challenges facing today's data centers, communication networks, and commercial and industrial facilities with a portfolio of power, cooling and IT infrastructure solutions and services that extend from the cloud to the edge of the network. Headquartered in Westerville, Ohio, USA, Vertiv employs around 34,000 people and does business in more than 130 countries. Visit Vertiv.com to learn more.

Work Authorization

No calls or agencies please. Vertiv will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States. This is not a position for which sponsorship will be provided. Individuals with temporary visas such as E, F-1, H-1, H-2, L, B, J, or TN or who need sponsorship for work authorization now or in the future, are not eligible for hire.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Vertiv is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We promote equal opportunities for all with respect to hiring, terms of employment, mobility, training, compensation, and occupational health, without discrimination as to age, race, color, religion, creed, sex, pregnancy status (including childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity / expression (including transgender status or sexual stereotypes), genetic information, citizenship status, national origin, protected veteran status, political affiliation, or disability. If you have a disability and are having difficulty accessing or using this website to apply for a position, you can request help by sending an email to help.join@vertiv.com


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