Robotics Engineer, Mechatronics & Prototyping - NREC

About this role

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), it is our engineers and technicians who drive the breakthroughs that define our success. Members of our technical staff collaborate closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions that address complex challenges in industrial, commercial and government sectors. Each project benefits from their expertise, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving, fueling progress and innovation across the organization.

As part of our dedicated team, you will work alongside world-class robotics professionals committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and redefining ideas into solutions for real-world applications. We foster a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible and encouraging environment where you can sharpen your skills, lead impactful projects, and take control of your career development.

We operate in the exciting space between pure academic research and full-scale commercial production. As a lean, agile robotics applied research team, we don't just assemble off-the-shelf parts-we build bespoke, intelligent robotic systems from the ground up. Our core focus lies at the intersection of mechanical design, machine vision, computing, and deep sensor integration.Because we are a small operation, everyone here wears multiple hats. We value adaptability, curiosity, and a collaborative spirit just as much as technical prowess.

We are seeking a versatile Mechatronics Engineer with a heavy emphasis on mechanical design, rapid prototyping, and hands-on system integration. In this role, your job doesn't end at the CAD screen. You will own the lifecycle of your designs - from initial brainstorming and modeling to physical assembly, wiring, and hardware-in-the-loop testing. Many of our projects require deep exploration before a single part is machined. You will need to balance the need for speed with the appropriate level of engineering rigor, knowing when to build a "quick and dirty" proof-of-concept and when to design for high reliability.

Your primary responsibilities are:

• Bespoke Mechanical Design: Lead the mechanical architecture and detailed design of custom robotic systems, specialized end-effectors, and unique enclosures.

• Rapid Prototyping & Fabrication: Bring concepts to life quickly using 3D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting, and traditional fabrication methods.

• Full Build Ownership (Assembly & Wiring): Physically assemble your mechanical designs and handle the neat, reliable routing of electrical wiring and wire harnesses.

• Testing & Electronics Debugging: Take a lead role in bring-up and testing. Bring a working familiarity with basic electronics debugging (using multimeters, oscilloscopes, etc.) to isolate and resolve hardware issues.

• Scope & Explore: Take ambiguous, high-level requests, investigate the constraints, and communicate technical trade-offs before diving into execution.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering (Mechanical, Mechatronics, Robotics, or related field) or equivalent experience

• 1-3 years of engineering experience

• Open to a range of experience levels (from motivated junior engineers with the right mindset to seasoned veterans). What matters most is your approach to solving problems and your willingness to get your hands dirty

• Strong proficiency in 3D CAD modeling (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Onshape) paired with a portfolio of physical things you have actually built.

• Deep understanding of materials, manufacturing processes, and designing for custom fabrication over relying solely on commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components.

• Practical experience with mechanical assembly, hand tools, and a solid understanding of structural fits and tolerances.

• Functional knowledge of electronics - comfort reading schematics, soldering, fabricating wiring harnesses, and diagnosing basic electrical faults.

We especially want to hear from you if you have experience or qualifications in any of the following areas:

• Experience or strong interest in Machine Vision and edge computing integration.

• Hands-on experience with sensor protocols (I2C, SPI, CAN) and basic microcontroller/robot programming (C++, Python, ROS).

• High Autonomy & Low Ego: You are comfortable with ambiguity and aren't afraid to say, "I don't know, let me look into that and map out our options."

• Calibrated Rigor: You know how to make efficient work of quick tasks without over-engineering, but you also know when a critical component requires strict mathematical validation.

• Strong Communicator: Ability to proactively work through the "exploration phase" of a project with teammates and stakeholders.

Other Requirements:

• Portfolio Link: Please provide a link to a portfolio, website, or GitHub repository showcasing physical hardware projects you have designed, built, and assembled. (Applications without a portfolio will face a significant disadvantage).

• Successful pre-employment background check

This position will require work on a variety of projects, including projects that involve military/defense applications and/or are funded by military/defense sponsors.

Are you interested in joining our versatile team at NREC where you will have a direct impact on operations and meaningful projects? Join a collaborative environment where your hands-on skills, leadership, and mentorship will directly influence operations and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Why NREC? At NREC, you will shape the robotics revolution by tackling real-world challenges in agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and much more. You will work alongside top robotics experts, develop ground breaking technologies, and see your solutions deployed in the field.

NREC at a Glance: • Located in Pittsburgh or “Roboburgh”, a hub for over 120+ robotics companies

• 30+ years of pioneering robotics research

• 150+ professionals driv

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