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Phd Mechanical Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Senior Mechanical Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$110K - $146K/yr

Bachelor's, master's, or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution, with progressive engineering experience (typically 15+ years with a bachelor ...

Intern C, Mechanical Engineer

Fort Wayne, IN · On-site

$17 - $22.75/hr

Must be pursuing a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Materials Science Engineering or related field at an ...

Design to Protect Our Electronics We are looking for mechanical engineers who want to be a part of ... Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical ...

Intern C, Mechanical Engineer

Palm Bay, FL · On-site

$16 - $21.50/hr

Must be pursuing a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Materials Science Engineering or related field at an ...

Mechanical Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

Master's with at least 3 years of experience or new grad PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related field * US Citizen with the ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance. Current active ...

Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD degree in Mechanical Engineering, Manufacturing, Robotics, Biomechatronics, Mechatronics, or related fields. * 5+ years of experience (3+ years with advanced degree ...

Mechanical Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$102K - $135K/yr

Master's with at least 3 years of experience or new grad PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related field * US Citizen with the ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance. Current active ...

Must be pursuing a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Materials Science Engineering or related field at an ...

Must be pursuing a bachelor's degree, a master's degree, or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Engineering Mechanics, Materials Science Engineering or related field at an ...

Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or related field. * 5+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in robotics or automation. * Proficient in CAD software (e.g ...

Master's degree or PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Robotics, or related field. * 5+ years of experience in mechanical design, preferably in robotics or automation. * Proficient in CAD software (e.g ...

Showing results 41-60

Phd Mechanical Engineer information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do phd mechanical engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd mechanical 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 PhD mechanical engineer do?

A PhD Mechanical Engineer is a highly trained professional who conducts advanced research and development in the field of mechanical engineering. They typically work on designing, analyzing, and improving mechanical systems, often leading innovative projects in areas such as robotics, energy systems, materials science, or manufacturing processes. In addition to research, they may teach at universities, publish scholarly papers, and mentor students. Their expertise is often sought after in both academia and industry for solving complex engineering challenges.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD mechanical engineer?

To thrive as a PhD Mechanical Engineer, you need advanced expertise in mechanical engineering principles, research methodology, and problem-solving, underpinned by a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Proficiency with simulation software (such as ANSYS or MATLAB), CAD tools, and experience with laboratory or experimental systems is typically required. Strong analytical thinking, effective communication, and project management skills help set top candidates apart. These abilities are crucial for driving innovation, leading complex research projects, and collaborating effectively in academic or industrial environments.

What types of projects do PhD mechanical engineers typically work on within a multidisciplinary team?

PhD Mechanical Engineers often contribute to complex research and development projects, such as advanced materials design, robotics, energy systems, or computational modeling. Within a multidisciplinary team, they frequently collaborate with electrical engineers, computer scientists, and specialists in fields like materials science or biology, depending on the project. Their role may involve leading experimental design, developing simulation models, and interpreting data to inform engineering solutions. This collaborative environment not only advances project goals but also provides opportunities to develop leadership and cross-functional communication skills.

What is the difference between Phd Mechanical Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPhd Mechanical EngineerMechanical Engineer
EducationDoctoral degree (PhD) in Mechanical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, R&D departmentsDesign, manufacturing, construction, and industry settings
CertificationsTypically none required, but may include professional engineering licensesProfessional Engineer (PE) license often preferred

The main difference between a Phd Mechanical Engineer and a Mechanical Engineer lies in their education level and work focus. Phd Mechanical Engineers primarily engage in research, development, and academic roles, while Mechanical Engineers focus on practical design, manufacturing, and industry applications. Both roles are vital in the engineering field, but their career paths and responsibilities differ significantly.

More about Phd Mechanical Engineer jobs

What cities are hiring for Phd Mechanical Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Phd Mechanical Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Phd Mechanical Engineer jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Phd Mechanical Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, 7% Part Time, 1% Contract, and 2% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $102,878 per year, or $49.5 per hour.

Senior Mechanical Engineer

General Atomics

San Diego, CA • On-site

$110K - $146K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 12 days ago


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

10th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) designs and manufactures first-of-a-kind electromagnetic and electric power generation systems. GA-EMS' expanding portfolio of specialized products and integrated system solutions support critical fleet, space systems and satellites, missile defense, power and energy, and process and monitoring applications for defense, industrial, and commercial customers worldwide.
We are seeking a Senior Mechanical Engineer to join our Aircraft Launch and Recovery Equipment (ALRE) sustainment team, supporting advanced aircraft carrier systems. This senior technical role focuses on fielded aerospace/defense systems, especially energy absorption systems used to safely decelerate aircraft in demanding maritime environments.
You will lead mechanical sustainment and design-for-manufacturing efforts, perform advanced analysis (structural, thermal, shock/vibration, tolerance, corrosion), ensure compliance with maritime MIL-STD requirements, and drive reliability and safety (including FMEA). The role also includes BOE development for DoD proposals, QN resolution, and mentoring mid-level and junior engineers.
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Lead mechanical sustainment for fielded systems, including design changes, obsolescence resolution, reliability improvements, and corrosion-related corrective actions.
  • Perform and review structural, thermal, shock/vibration, tolerance stack-up, and corrosion-related analyses; prepare clear technical reports and documentation.
  • Apply and review GD&T per ASME standards; approve drawings and guide design-for-manufacturing and corrosion-resistant design.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (Engineering, Manufacturing, Quality, Supply Chain, Program Management, vendors, and customers) to resolve design and production issues and ensure effective execution.
  • Support test activities and troubleshoot mechanical, environmental, and system-level issues at test sites.
  • Develop procurement specifications, SOWs, and technical content for proposals; provide technical input to procurement decisions.
  • Develop BOEs for DoD proposals using bottom-up, analogy, and parametric methods; support proposal and planning efforts.
  • Plan and manage engineering work packages, tracking scope, schedule, and cost; maintain favorable CPI/SPI and implement corrective actions as needed.
  • Apply reliability and safety engineering practices, including FMEA and other risk assessment methods.
  • Mentor and provide technical leadership to mid-level and junior engineers.
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Bachelor's, master's, or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution, with progressive engineering experience (typically 15+ years with a bachelor's, 13+ with a master's, or 10+ with a PhD). Equivalent engineering experience may be substituted in lieu of formal education.
  • Senior-level mechanical engineering experience in aerospace, defense, or DoD programs, including leading projects or work packages and serving as a prime technical contact.
  • Strong expertise in structural, thermal, shock/vibration, and tolerance stack-up analysis using hand calculations and FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, NASTRAN).
  • Extensive, practical GD&T experience per ASME standards, including reviewing and approving complex drawings.
  • Hands-on design-for-manufacturing and sustainment experience; energy absorption/arresting systems experience preferred.
  • Proficiency with CAD tools (e.g., Creo, SolidWorks, NX) and strong Excel skills.
  • Experience with sustainment engineering, configuration control, change management (CRs, ECNs/ECOs), and closing QNs; ability to update drawings, specifications, and BOMs.
  • Corrosion engineering experience in maritime/marine environments (shipboard, coastal, salt-spray) and familiarity with relevant maritime MIL-STD requirements.
  • Experience planning and managing engineering tasks, including scope, schedule, and cost control; familiarity with CPI/SPI metrics.
  • Experience with BOE development and DoD/government proposals.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills; able to work independently and in teams, with willingness to work extended hours and travel as required.
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD Security Clearance is required.

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About General Atomics

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955