R&D Hardware Mechanical Engineering Scientist Associate

R&D Hardware Mechanical Engineering Scientist Associate

Responsibilities

• Design support of new and existing underwater acoustic systems and sensors, including scheduling, execution, calibration, characterization, testing, and data analysis.
• Deploy/recover subsea systems in field from offshore vessels or workboats and troubleshoot and repair equipment as necessary.
• Assist with hardware procurement.
• Assist with fabrication facilities management, warehouse and shop organization, and coordinate maintenance and inventory of shop tools.
• Perform other related functions as required.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Ocean Engineering.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Computer Aided Design (CAD) software (e.g., Creo, Solidworks) for 3D modeling and assembly.
• Familiarity with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) concepts and experience using common software packages (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL) for basic linear static analysis.
• Experience generating detailed engineering drawings in accordance with industry standards (e.g., ASME Y14.5).
• Strong understanding of Engineering Mechanics, including statics, strength of materials, and the selection/application of common engineering materials (metals, polymers).
• Fundamental knowledge of mechanical components and systems (e.g., shafts, bearings, fasteners, gears, seals).
• Familiarity with programming engineering computation software such as MATLAB.
• Applicant must be highly organized, have excellent attention to detail, and possess sound scientific judgment.
• Effective time‑management skills to plan, coordinate, and execute multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Regular and punctual attendance in the workplace is required.
• US Citizen. Applicant selected will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information at the level appropriate to the project requirements of the position.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in mechanical or ocean engineering and 3 years of experience.
• Three years of experience with the design, fabrication, and testing of prototype hardware in a commercial, research, or advanced academic setting, with demonstrated ability to apply principles of structural integrity, materials science, and system performance to hardware design.
• Demonstrated experience or high aptitude in designing, building, or deploying oceanographic instrumentation or similar remote sensing/harsh‑environment equipment.
• Practical field‑testing experience with mechanical hardware.
• Demonstrated knowledge of various manufacturing and fabrication processes (e.g., machining, welding, 3D printing) and their impact on design.
• Experience with data processing, such as acoustic signal processing using software like MATLAB.
• Demonstrated excellent interpersonal communication skills.
• Cumulative GPA of 3.0 with 3.2 in core engineering courses.

Benefits

• 100% employer-paid basic medical coverage
• Retirement contributions
• Paid vacation and sick time
• Paid holidays

Salary Range

$88,500-$120,000+ / negotiable depending on qualifications

Working Conditions

• Standard office conditions
• Periodic offshore work on ships
• Repetitive use of a keyboard at a workstation
• Use of manual dexterity
• Some weekend, evening and holiday work
• Intrastate/interstate/international travel
• Use of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)
• Will work outdoors, indoors and over water

Equal Opportunity Employer

The University of Texas at Austin, as an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer, complies with all applicable federal and state laws regarding nondiscrimination and affirmative action. The University is committed to a policy of equal opportunity for all persons and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, religion, or veteran status in employment, educational programs and activities, and admissions.