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Penn Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

R&D Engineer Intern

University Park, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

For additional information on remote work at Penn State, see Notice to Out of State Applicants. AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS Undergrad R&D Engineering Intern The Advanced Manufacturing and Materials ...

R&D Engineer Intern

University Park, PA · On-site

$16.50 - $21.25/hr

CURRENT PENN STATE EMPLOYEE (faculty, staff, technical service, or student), please login to ... Students in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or Engineering ...

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Penn Engineering information

See salary details

$46.5K

$146.9K

$174K

How much do penn engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for penn engineering in the United States is $146,868.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $116,500.00 and $173,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is Penn Engineering?

Penn Engineering refers to the School of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Pennsylvania. It is a prestigious institution that offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various fields of engineering, such as computer science, bioengineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. The school is known for its interdisciplinary approach, cutting-edge research, and strong industry partnerships. Students benefit from hands-on learning opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, and a vibrant academic community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Penn Engineering graduate, and why are they important?

To excel as a Penn Engineering graduate, you need a strong background in mathematics, science, and engineering principles, supported by a relevant bachelor’s degree. Familiarity with technical tools such as CAD software, programming languages, and laboratory equipment is typically required. Problem-solving ability, teamwork, and effective communication are essential soft skills for success. These skills and qualifications are crucial for tackling complex engineering challenges and contributing to innovative solutions in diverse technical fields.

What types of projects and collaborations can engineers expect to work on within Penn Engineering?

Engineers at Penn Engineering often participate in interdisciplinary projects, collaborating closely with faculty, researchers, and students from various departments. These projects may involve cutting-edge research in robotics, nanotechnology, data science, or bioengineering, often with real-world applications and industry partnerships. Teamwork is highly encouraged, and engineers frequently engage in design challenges, prototyping, and technical presentations. This collaborative environment not only fosters innovation but also provides opportunities to build a diverse professional network.

What is the difference between Penn Engineering vs Mechanical Engineer?

CriteriaPenn EngineeringMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsTypically requires a degree in engineering, often with specialization in electrical, computer, or systems engineeringRequires a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, design offices, and manufacturing facilities within university or industry settingsManufacturing plants, design offices, and R&D labs
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by universities, research institutions, and tech companiesUsed by manufacturing firms, aerospace, automotive, and industrial companies

Penn Engineering focuses on electrical, computer, and systems engineering within academic and research environments, while Mechanical Engineers primarily work on designing, analyzing, and manufacturing mechanical systems in industry settings. Both roles require engineering degrees but differ in specialization and work context.

More about Penn Engineering jobs
What cities are hiring for Penn Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Penn Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Penn Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Penn Engineering jobs include:

Opto-Mechanical Engineering Intern

Penn State University

Freeport, PA • On-site

$17.75 - $24/hr

Part-time

Posted 20 days ago


Penn State University rating

7.9

Company rating: 7.9 out of 10

Based on 100 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

173rd of 535 rated colleges and universities


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, see Notice to Out of State Applicants.
JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS:
The Electro-Optics & Electronics (EOE) Division of the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University, located in Freeport PA, is seeking an advanced undergraduate or graduate-level, Optical Engineering Intern to support High Energy Laser (HEL), Opto-Mechanical and Electro-Optical (EO) system development programs supporting military and intelligence community customers.
You will:
  • Support research and laboratory experiments involving optical components, data collection, analysis, and modeling
  • Design, assemble, align and exercise opto-mechanical components and systems
  • Computer Aided Design (CAD) support for optical experimental test fixture design
  • Communicate and document results in reports and presentations

Upperclass (junior or senior) undergraduate and graduate-level students studying Electrical Engineering, Engineering Science, Optics, Physics, Materials Science or similar programs are encouraged to apply.
Preferred skills and experience includes:
  • Strong science and mathematics foundation
  • Hands-on laboratory experience with optical components including lasers, lenses, mirrors, coatings, optical detectors, CCD cameras, as well as opto-mechanical accessories including lens and mirror mounts is desired
  • Background coursework and understanding of optics to include the fundamentals of Fourier optics, optical materials, coatings and diffraction gratings
  • Familiarity with data acquisition hardware and software including LabVIEW and MATLAB
  • Ability to analyze alternatives and apply sound engineering techniques and procedures to assignments
  • Ability to clearly communicate, document, and present results

The successful candidate will work up to 40 hours/week during the internship/co-op.
This is a paid internship and your working location will be fully on-site located out of the EOE Division in Freeport, PA; relocation and housing are not provided.
Candidates for consideration must submit a cover letter of interest and a resume.
Candidate selected will be subject to a government security investigation. You must be a U.S. citizen to apply. Employment with the Applied Research Laboratory will require successful completion of a pre-employment drug screen.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu
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.
Employment with the University will require successful completion of background check(s) in accordance with University policies.
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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