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JOB DESCRIPTION AND POSITION REQUIREMENTS: The Eberly College of Science at Penn State is seeking a Research Engineer (Intermediate Professional) to support sponsored programs within the college. The successful candidate will provide mechanical engineering support for researchers within the college, primarily in the Department of Astronomy and Astrophysics and the Department of Physics. They will perform engineering tasks for these projects, which include space- and ground-based instruments as well as support systems and laboratory test setups.

Core responsibilities will include: Perform mechanical engineering tasks such as computer aided design (CAD), technical drawings, finite element analysis (FEA), thermal analysis, etc. Create CAD models of instrumentation such as instrument housings, test support structures, instrument systems, test apparatuses, detector housings, optical mounts, electronics boxes, etc. Perform FEA and thermal analysis on parts required for spaceflight such as suborbital and CubeSat components. Analyze these components post environmental testing for signs of yielding or failure. Create technical drawings as required by machinists. Meet with collaborators to disseminate information and facilitate planning. Present mechanical designs and test plans at meetings with Penn State teams, external collaborators, NASA contractors, NASA offices, funding solicitation managers, etc. Create prototype parts and perform verification tests on them. Use a variety of methods including rapid prototyping via 3D printing, mass models, and engineering models to determine best design choices and possible failure modes. Verification testing may consist of vibration testing, thermal testing, vacuum testing, etc. Support data acquisition experiments. Utilize facilities such as the Penn State Long Cell Test Facility, Marshall Space Flight Center, Wallops Flight Facility, and ARL facilities to support verification tests performed at these facilities. Support data acquisition experiments performed within PI labs, as well. Interface with machine shops and vendors to fabricate and procure necessary parts. Develop relationships with reliable local and external machine shops to ensure timely fabrication of critical parts. Identify new potential vendors for new fabrication methods. Work with these vendors to fabricate and procure parts.

Additional responsibilities might include: Creating part, drawing, and assembly libraries for various projects. Thermal analysis training and implementation.

Education and Experience: Overall, this position requires excellent organization and planning. The candidate must be detail-oriented, able to follow standard procedures, able to work with the current team and others as well as independently and should have excellent written and oral communication skills. Inclusion and effective collaboration are valued skills.

A Bachelor's Degree in a scientific field or in engineering is required; Master's Degree preferred. A minimum of 1+ years of relevant experience is required.

Additional Information: Applications must be submitted electronically and include a cover letter, CV, and names and contact information for three professional references. Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled.

This is a term app intment funded for one year from date of hire with the possibility of renewal for up to three years.

Information regarding benefits may be found at https://hr.psu.edu/.

The Pennsylvania State University is committed to and accountable for advancing diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in all of its forms. We embrace individual uniqueness, foster a culture of inclusion that supports both broad and specific diversity initiatives, leverage the educational and institutional benefits of diversity in society and nature, and engage all individuals to help them thrive. We value inclusion as a core strength and an essential element of our public service mission.

The salary range for this position, including all possible grades is: $68,200.00 - $102,300.00

Salary Structure - additional information on Penn State's job and salary structure.

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.

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Penn State is an equal opportunity, affirmative action 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.