ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Phd Mechanical Engineering Jobs (NOW HIRING)

ASM

Engineer, Mechanical Engineering

Phoenix, AZ

Masters in Mechanical Engineering or related degree, PhD strongly preferred. * Experience in engineering, design, and development of complex mechanical systems including: reactors, vacuum chambers ...

ASM

Engineer, Mechanical Engineering

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

Masters in Mechanical Engineering or related degree, PhD strongly preferred. * Experience in engineering, design, and development of complex mechanical systems including: reactors, vacuum chambers ...

Symbotic

Manager of Mechanical Engineering

Wilmington, MA · On-site

$113K - $156K/yr

Masters/PHd Degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Aerospace Engineering. * Experience with mobile robots, AGV, AMR, or warehouse automation systems. * Familiarity with PPAP, FMEA, and quality systems in ...

WSP

Mechanical Engineering Intern - Fall 2026

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$23.03 - $29.96/hr

Actively enrolled in an accredited Mechanical Engineering, or related, Master's or PhD program with an anticipated graduation date of December 2026 or later. * Experience using AutoCad, Revit, Load ...

WSP

Mechanical Engineering Intern - Fall 2026

Milwaukee, WI · On-site

$23.03 - $29.96/hr

Actively enrolled in an accredited Mechanical Engineering, or related, Master's or PhD program with an anticipated graduation date of December 2026 or later. * Experience using AutoCad, Revit, Load ...

Symbotic

Manager of Mechanical Engineering

Wilmington, MA

$113K - $156K/yr

Masters/PHd Degree in Mechanical/Electrical/Aerospace Engineering. * Experience with mobile robots, AGV, AMR, or warehouse automation systems. * Familiarity with PPAP, FMEA, and quality systems in ...

LLNL

Senior Mechanical Engineering Analyst

Livermore, CA

$210K - $267K/yr

PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field. * Experience with National Laboratory codes such as ParaDyn, Nike3D, Dyna3D, Diablo, Sierra, ALE3D, CTH, or similar commercial FEA codes such as Abaqus ...

LLNL

Senior Mechanical Engineering Analyst

Livermore, CA · On-site

$210K - $267K/yr

PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field. * Experience with National Laboratory codes such as ParaDyn, Nike3D, Dyna3D, Diablo, Sierra, ALE3D, CTH, or similar commercial FEA codes such as Abaqus ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsPhd Mechanical Engineering Jobs

Phd Mechanical Engineering information

See salary details

$45.5K

$102.9K

$166.5K

How much do phd mechanical engineering jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for phd mechanical engineering 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a PhD Mechanical Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a PhD Mechanical Engineer, you need advanced expertise in mechanical engineering principles, research methodologies, and a doctoral degree in the field. Proficiency in simulation software (such as ANSYS or MATLAB), data analysis tools, and familiarity with laboratory equipment are commonly required. Exceptional problem-solving, critical thinking, and strong written and verbal communication skills distinguish top performers in this role. These abilities are crucial for driving innovation, publishing impactful research, and collaborating effectively within multidisciplinary teams.

What are some common challenges faced by PhD graduates in Mechanical Engineering when transitioning into industry roles?

PhD graduates in Mechanical Engineering often face the challenge of adapting their deep research focus to the faster-paced, results-driven environment typical in industry. While academic research emphasizes thorough investigation and innovation, industry roles may require quicker decision-making, collaborative teamwork, and balancing multiple projects with business goals. Additionally, communicating complex technical ideas to non-specialist stakeholders and aligning research efforts with commercial objectives can be new experiences. However, these challenges also provide opportunities to develop valuable skills in project management, cross-disciplinary collaboration, and leadership.

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

AspectPhd Mechanical EngineeringMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsDoctoral degree in Mechanical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academia, advanced R&DDesign, manufacturing, industry settings
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, R&D departmentsManufacturing firms, engineering consultancies, industrial companies

In summary, a Phd Mechanical Engineering focuses on advanced research, academia, and specialized R&D, requiring a doctoral degree. A Mechanical Engineer typically holds a bachelor's or master's degree and works in practical engineering roles within industry settings. Both roles share foundational knowledge but differ in scope, responsibilities, and work environment.

What does PhD stand for?

PhD in mechanical engineering is a doctoral degree that signifies advanced expertise in the field, typically requiring several years of research, coursework, and a dissertation. It prepares individuals for careers in research, academia, or specialized engineering roles.

Is a doctorate degree higher than a PhD?

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a type of doctorate degree and is generally considered the highest academic qualification in many fields, including mechanical engineering. Other doctorate degrees, such as professional doctorates (e.g., Doctor of Engineering), may have different focuses but are also considered terminal degrees. For a mechanical engineering PhD, it is the highest level of academic achievement in that discipline.

What is a PhD in Mechanical Engineering?

A PhD in Mechanical Engineering is the highest academic degree in the field, focusing on advanced research, innovation, and the development of new knowledge in areas such as mechanics, thermodynamics, robotics, and materials science. Students typically engage in original research, publish scholarly articles, and complete a dissertation under faculty supervision. Graduates are prepared for careers in academia, research and development, and leadership roles in industry where expertise in solving complex engineering problems is required.

What is a PhD vs. a doctorate?

A PhD (Doctor of Philosophy) is a type of doctorate degree that involves original research and a dissertation, often required for academic or research positions such as a mechanical engineering researcher. A doctorate is a broader term that includes various advanced degrees like PhDs, professional doctorates, and other specialized doctorates, all of which represent the highest level of academic achievement in a field.

What is the PhD salary?

A PhD in Mechanical Engineering typically earns a starting salary ranging from $70,000 to $100,000 annually, depending on the industry, location, and experience. Salaries tend to increase with additional research, teaching experience, and specialized skills in areas like CAD, thermodynamics, or robotics.
What cities are hiring for Phd Mechanical Engineering jobs? Cities with the most Phd Mechanical Engineering job openings:
What states have the most Phd Mechanical Engineering jobs? States with the most job openings for Phd Mechanical Engineering jobs include:
Expert Contributor - Mechanical Engineering

Expert Contributor - Mechanical Engineering

Arise Virtual Solutions

Des Moines, IA

Contractor

Posted 10 days ago

Job description

Expert Contributor - Mechanical Engineering
Task-Based Independent Contractor Opportunity
Overview
We're looking for Mechanical Engineering experts who can design and solve challenging, real-world reasoning tasks that test the limits of advanced AI systems. You'll create high-quality mechanical engineering problems, develop rigorous solutions, and help identify exactly where models stumble in scientific reasoning. The focus is on graduate-level difficulty, scientific precision, and reproducible evaluation. If you're the kind of person who geeks out over complex thermodynamics or structural analysis problems, keep reading.
Key Responsibilities
  • Design graduate-level, multi-step mechanical engineering problems with precise, fully worked solutions.
  • Evaluate AI-generated engineering reasoning and identify where models fail or produce flawed analysis.
  • Create problems spanning thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, materials science, dynamics, and structural analysis.
  • Develop reproducible solution paths and evaluation criteria for each deliverable.
  • Review and critique competing solution approaches across multi-turn evaluation sessions.
  • Collaborate asynchronously with the project team on problem calibration and quality standards.

Required Qualifications
  • Deep fluency in Mechanical Engineering, with the ability to create graduate-level, multi-step analytical problems and produce precise, fully worked solutions.
  • Proficiency with 3-D CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA, Fusion 360, or similar).
  • Strong review instincts with the ability to identify subtle scientific errors and evaluate competing solution paths.
  • Master's or PhD candidate, or graduate, in Mechanical Engineering or a closely related discipline.
  • 2+ years of professional or academic experience in mechanical engineering practice or research.

Preferred Qualifications
  • Background in academic research, university-level instruction, advanced problem writing, laboratory science, or technical scientific communication.
  • Familiarity with grading rubrics, olympiad- or exam-style question design, or evaluating AI-generated scientific reasoning.
  • Experience with FEA/CFD simulation tools (ANSYS, COMSOL, OpenFOAM, etc.).
  • PE licensure or EIT certification is a plus.

Apply