Research And Development Mechanical Engineer Jobs in Springfield, MA

Job Description

This role is an exciting opportunity for a Mechanical or Aerospace Engineer to support a high-visibility, multi-million dollar engine rig development program and materials testing initiatives within Materials Process Engineering. You will help develop a ground-up subscale engine rig in partnership with a major university while contributing to ongoing materials testing programs that support advanced aerospace applications. The position combines hands-on engineering, project coordination, and cross-functional collaboration, offering strong exposure to complex programs, subject matter experts, and leadership opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Support the development of a new subscale engine rig program in collaboration with a university partner.
• Serve as a technical liaison between university design teams and internal engineering experts, ensuring clear communication and alignment on technical requirements.
• Review and interpret 3D CAD models and engineering designs using NX and/or SolidWorks.
• Coordinate project activities, schedules, deliverables, and action items across multiple stakeholders.
• Track project milestones and support the execution of a high-visibility engineering development program.
• Prepare and deliver project updates and presentations for engineering leadership and senior management.
• Support ongoing testing programs involving materials and engine component evaluations using test rigs.
• Coordinate testing activities across multiple internal and external facilities to ensure timely and accurate execution.
• Prepare and manage test samples, documentation, and test requests in accordance with established procedures.
• Collect, analyze, document, and communicate test results to engineering teams and leadership.
• Perform data entry and maintain engineering databases containing test information, ensuring accuracy and completeness.
• Support the preparation of technical reports and presentations summarizing testing outcomes and engineering findings.
• Assist with procurement and acquisition of test articles, engineering hardware, and related materials.
• Coordinate shipment and movement of test materials and equipment between facilities and partners.
• Handle materials and packages weighing up to 20 pounds within laboratory and office environments.
• Provide additional project coordination and logistical support as needed to keep programs on schedule and within scope.
• Demonstrate ownership of assigned projects by proactively identifying risks, resolving issues, and communicating status to stakeholders.
• Collaborate frequently with subject matter experts, universities, research organizations, suppliers, and cross-functional engineering teams to advance program objectives.

Essential Skills

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSME) or equivalent engineering degree.
• At least 1 year of industry experience in engineering, product development, laboratory, or testing environments.
• Experience supporting engineering development, laboratory, testing, or product development programs.
• Mechanical design and machine design experience, including exposure to new product development.
• Proficiency in 3D modeling and CAD tools such as NX and/or SolidWorks.
• Proficient understanding and application of Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Proficiency with Microsoft Excel, including data entry and basic data analysis.
• Experience with test engineering, test equipment, and interpreting test results.
• Experience coordinating technical projects with cross-functional teams.
• Exposure to materials testing, test planning, or test execution.
• Familiarity with aerospace or power generation products and systems.
• Strong oral and written communication skills, including the ability to prepare clear documentation, reports, and presentations.
• Demonstrated ability to take ownership of projects, show professionalism, and exhibit strong business acumen.

Additional Skills & Qualifications

• Background in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with interest in engine rig development and materials testing.
• Experience serving as a technical liaison between design teams, subject matter experts, and testing organizations.
• Comfort working with engineering databases and maintaining organized test records.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks, priorities, and stakeholders in a fast-paced engineering environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and attention to detail when reviewing designs, test results, and project data.
• Interest in building technical depth, project leadership skills, and broader business acumen.
• Desire to work in a culture that emphasizes learning, mentorship, and professional development.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with universities, research organizations, suppliers, and cross-functional engineering teams.

Work Environment

This role is primarily onsite at an East Hartford campus, providing direct access to engineering teams, laboratories, and test facilities. The position involves approximately 20% travel, including periodic trips (about once per quarter) to a university partner. You will work closely with advanced test rigs, materials testing setups, and modern CAD and data tools such as NX, SolidWorks, and Excel. The environment offers exposure to large-scale, technically complex programs with significant investment and executive visibility. You will collaborate frequently with subject matter experts, universities, research organizations, suppliers, and cross-functional engineering teams. The culture emphasizes learning, mentorship, and professional growth, encouraging employees to develop technical expertise, project leadership capabilities, and business acumen. During the contract period, you will have access to paid time off, holidays, and applicable sick leave benefits.

**For Qualified Candidates only** Please use this to schedule an employment screen: https://talentassistant.actalentservices.com/assistant/bookings/i8y8SJbY

This is a Contract position based out of East Hartford, CT.

The pay range for this position is $30.00 - $40.00/hr.

Eligibility requirements apply to some benefits and may depend on your job classification and length of employment. Benefits are subject to change and may be subject to specific elections, plan, or program terms. If eligible, the benefits available for this temporary role may include the following: • Medical, dental & vision • Critical Illness, Accident, and Hospital • 401(k) Retirement Plan – Pre-tax and Roth post-tax contributions available • Life Insurance (Voluntary Life & AD&D for the employee and dependents) • Short and long-term disability • Health Spending Account (HSA) • Transportation benefits • Employee Assistance Program • Time Off/Leave (PTO, Vacation or Sick Leave)

This is a fully onsite position in East Hartford,CT.

This position is anticipated to close on Aug 18, 2026.

About Actalent

Actalent is a global leader in engineering and sciences services and talent solutions. We help visionary companies advance their engineering and science initiatives through access to specialized experts who drive scale, innovation and speed to market. With a network of almost 20,000 consultants and 5,000 clients across the U.S., Canada, Asia and Europe, Actalent serves many of the Fortune 500. We are proud to be an Engineering News-Record (ENR) Top 500 Design Firm for our engineering design services and a ClearlyRated Best of Staffing® winner for both client and talent service.

The company is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applications without regard to race, sex, age, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information or any characteristic protected by law.

If you would like to request a reasonable accommodation, such as the modification or adjustment of the job application process or interviewing process due to a disability, please email actalentaccommodation@actalentservices.com for other accommodation options.

San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance: Pursuant to the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, for all positions located in the city and county of San Francisco, we will consider for employment qualified applicants with arrest and conviction records.

Massachusetts Lie Detector: It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.

Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI): We may use Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support parts of our hiring process, including sourcing, screening, and evaluating candidates. AI helps assess applications and qualifications, but final decisions are made by our hiring team. By applying, you acknowledge and agree that your application may be reviewed using AI tools.