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POSITION SPECIFICS
Your working location will be fully on-site located in State College, PA. This role requires periodic travel to remote locations.
We are searching for a hands-on Technical Engineering Specialist, Mechanical to join the Materials for Extreme Environments Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State. The Materials for Extreme Environments Department develops and evaluates advanced materials, manufacturing processes, and engineering solutions for demanding operational environments. This role will support laboratory research, materials processing, prototype fabrication, equipment operation, component testing, and the transition of new technologies into practical applications for the U.S. military, and other government customers.
ARL is an authorized DoD SkillBridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.
You will:
Prepare metallic, ceramic, polymer, composite, and coated specimens through cutting, machining, grinding, polishing, cleaning, and masking
Operate and support materials-processing, coating, heat-treatment, surface-preparation, and testing equipment
Design, fabricate, assemble, and modify prototypes, experimental hardware, and test fixtures under the direction of engineering staff
Conduct and document mechanical, thermal, environmental, and surface-property testing
Perform materials characterization using microscopy, spectroscopy, profilometry, and other analytical methods
Configure and operate furnaces, vacuum hardware, compressed-gas systems, sensors, pumps, and data-acquisition equipment
Support machining, welding, additive manufacturing, fabrication, and mechanical assembly activities
Troubleshoot, maintain, and improve laboratory and manufacturing equipment
Collect, organize, and summarize test data while maintaining accurate laboratory records
Communicate equipment status, test results, and technical observations to engineers and project leadership
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of engineers, scientists, faculty, technologists, and technical staff
Maintain clean, safe, and organized laboratory and work areas
Additional responsibilities for higher-level positions include:
Independently plan and execute difficult or complex technical assignments
Develop and improve laboratory procedures, test methods, fixtures, and equipment
Coordinate laboratory activities and establish priorities within assigned technical areas
Provide technical direction and guidance to less-experienced staff, students, and interns
Lead defined technical tasks and communicate with project leadership, customers, vendors, and external partners
Review completed work for technical accuracy, quality, and compliance with established requirements
Required Skills/Experience areas include:
Past success utilizing laboratory, manufacturing, fabrication, mechanical testing, equipment operation, or maintenance activities
Safe use of laboratory equipment, hand tools, measuring instruments, and fabrication equipment
Identify and troubleshoot practical technical problems
Follow technical drawings, procedures, specifications, or test standards
Maintain organized and detailed laboratory records
Express technical…