Mechanical Engineer

Overview

The Edge Data Systems Department within the Technology Innovation Directorate at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory seeks a skilled Mechanical Engineer to work with our team in the design and construction of bleeding-edge physics detectors. This is a 1-year fixed-term position designed for candidates with strong mechanical engineering expertise who are eager to expand their experience in a national laboratory setting.

Note: This is a 12-month fixed-term position with the possibility of extension or conversion to a regular continuing position contingent on project needs and funding.

• Perform complex assembly tasks, including the integration and packaging of precision mechanical devices with advanced electronics such as ASICs, sensors, and PCBs.
• Develop and implement thermal management solutions for scientific instruments, including both single-phase and two-phase evaporative cooling systems.
• Conduct detailed thermal, structural, and hydraulic analyses using advanced computational tools (experience with Matlab or Python is highly desirable).
• Lead and support mechanical and thermal quality control efforts, rigorously following established testing protocols.
• Prepare clear, comprehensive technical reports documenting QC results, using tools such as Excel, PowerPoint, and Word.
• Collaborate with project leads to refining and optimizing 3D CAD models, contributing innovative design improvements and solutions.
• Take on additional tasks and responsibilities as assigned by project leads or supervisors.

• Valuable resume-enhancing experience within a prestigious scientific and research environment.
• Networking opportunities within the Stanford/SLAC scientific community, fostering collaboration across diverse disciplines.
• Exposure to cutting-edge experimental research methodologies and the vibrant atmosphere of a research and user facility.

• Master's degree in mechanical engineering or in a similar discipline and at least 2 years of relevant experience.
• Expertise in Finite Element thermal and structural analysis, particularly with ANSYS and Icepack.
• Experience with data acquisition systems for experimental test stands (e.g., Dataforth).
• Solid background in CAD design and project development, from requirements definition to testing plans.
• Demonstrated proficiency in 3D CAD modeling, with preferred experience in Solid Edge and Teamcenter.
• Proven ability in experimental and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) for prototype validation.
• Capacity to work both independently and collaboratively, with project lead experience preferred.
• Strong time management skills, able to deliver high-quality results under minimal supervision.
• Exceptional attention to detail, organizational skills, and problem-solving ability.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Effective Decisions:
  Uses job knowledge and solid judgment to make quality decisions in a timely manner.
• Self-Development:
  Pursues a variety of venues and opportunities to continue learning and developing.
• Dependability:
  Can be counted on to deliver results with a sense of personal responsibility for expected outcomes.
• Initiative:
  Pursues work and interactions proactively with optimism, positive energy, and motivation to move things forward.
• Adaptability:
  Flexes as needed when change occurs, maintains an open outlook while adjusting and accommodating changes.
• Communication:
  Ensures effective information flow to various audiences and creates and delivers clear, appropriate written, spoken, presented messages.
• Relationships:
  Builds relationships to foster trust, collaboration, and a positive climate to achieve common goals.

• Consistent with its obligations under the law, the University will provide reasonable accommodation to any employee with a disability who requires accommodation to perform the essential functions of the job.
• Given the nature of this position, SLAC is open to on-site and hybrid work options.

• Interpersonal
  
  Skills:
  
  Demonstrates the ability to work well with Stanford colleagues and clients and with external organizations.
• Promote Culture of Safety:
  Demonstrates commitment to personal responsibility and value for environment, safety and security; communicates related concerns; uses and promotes safe behaviors based on training and lessons learned. Meets the applicable roles and responsibilities as described in the ESH Manual.
• Subject to and expected to comply with all applicable University policies and procedures, including but not limited to the personnel policies and other policies found in the University s Administrative Guide.