Mechanical Engineering Technologist

Mechanical Engineering Support Specialist

We are seeking experienced Mechanical Engineering Support Specialists to join the Experimental Support Department within the Undersea Systems Office (USO) at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. USO designs, develops, validates, and maintains a suite of large-scale undersea warfare models and simulations used by technology developers, analysts, the Navy, and allied partners. We serve as a research center of excellence in undersea weapons, unmanned undersea vehicles, and advanced sonars.

ARL is an authorized DoD Skill Bridge partner and welcomes all transitioning military members to apply.

You will:

• Collaborate daily with engineers and engineering support specialists
• Provide feedback and recommendations to design engineers to improve designs and/or manufacturability
• Handle energetic materials in accordance with safe practices and established procedures
• Fabricate and assemble prototype mechanical systems and test hardware
• Assist with developing and writing detailed assembly procedures
• Install, calibrate, and use precision testing instrumentation
• Install and verify complex test setups using standard and non-standard equipment
• Conduct mechanical and electrical troubleshooting of test equipment
• Conduct or assist in conducting small-scale to system-level tests in accordance with established procedures
• Assist with collecting, compiling, analyzing, and documenting test data for relevant engineering personnel
• Aid in the control and safe disposal of hazardous and other laboratory materials
• Recommend, source, and procure materials and parts for system manufacturing and testing

Additional responsibilities for higher-level positions include:

• Managing A&E-related storage, handling, and transportation operations
• Demonstrating proficiency with mechanical drawings and geometric tolerancing
• Writing standard operating procedures and maintenance plans
• Assigning work to other support staff
• Designing and implementing new or modified fabrication hardware

Required skills/experience:

• Prior experience handling energetic materials
• Understanding of general hazards associated with energetics work and common mitigation practices
• Ability to make informed adjustments to established procedures while maintaining safety requirements
• Familiarity with the assembly, testing, and maintenance of mechanical systems
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to work independently and complete tasks with minimal supervision after appropriate training

Preferred skills/experience:

• Graduate of the Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal (NAVSCOLEOD)
• Working knowledge of ATF/DOT standards for storage and transportation of Hazard Class (HC) 1 items
• Familiarity with DoD Manual 4145.26, DoD Contractor's Safety Manual for Ammunition and Explosives
• Familiarity with Defense Explosive Safety Regulation (DESR) 6055.09
• Experience using and calibrating instrumentation such as thermocouples, strain gauges, accelerometers, pressure transducers, and flow meters
• Working knowledge of wiring, electronics, and electronic principles
• Knowledge of or experience with weld design and basic MIG or TIG welding and/or resistance tack welding operations
• 3D modeling software/CAD such as Solid Works, Inventor, or Siemens NX
• Past success fabricating hydraulic systems, tube bending, and using tube fittings such as Swagelok
• Developing and/or writing assembly procedures
• Current eligibility for access to classified information at the Secret or Top Secret level, with the ability to obtain a clearance upgrade if required

This position is fully on-site in State College, PA. Questions regarding flexible work arrangements should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process.

Minimum Education, Work Experience & Required Certifications

If filled as Engineering Technologist
- Senior Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree
• 6+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination of education and experience accepted
• Required
  
  Certifications:
  
  None

If filled as Engineering Technologist
- Advanced Professional, this position requires:

• Bachelor's Degree
• 3+ years of relevant experience; or an equivalent combination…