Mechanical Engineer
Confirmed on the employer's own hiring board on Oct 27, 2026. First seen by Alion on Sep 7, 2026.
Overview
SRI’s Bright Ceramic Technologies (BCT) lab is focused on developing, applying, and commercializing a unique technology platform based upon advanced materials. BCT develops and manufactures cutting-edge components and systems in our facility in Palo Alto, CA and is searching for a Mechanical Engineer to join their team.
The Mechanical Engineer (ME) will be responsible for the design, fabrication, integration and operation of critical mechanical parts and systems within BCT’s process line. These will range from test fixtures to prototype products to production systems and will be used to produce products across a wide range of applications at BCT. Additionally, the ME will focus on laser material processing in both R&D and production applications. The ideal candidate will be able to perform engineering analysis, complete detailed specifications, and build and troubleshoot systems with minimal supervision. Working with interdisciplinary teams, the ME will apply his or her knowledge of mechanical design and materials properties to invent, fabricate, and test complex components and systems that are benchmarks of elegant and effective design. The successful applicant will be proficient in mechanical design and analysis, prototyping, a wide range of manufacturing processes, electro-mechanical systems, 3D CAD, and system fabrication.
The position will work onsite at our Palo Alto office.
Responsibilities
- Mechanical design
- Oversight of fabrication
- Technical leadership
- Interpreting experimental data
- Developing and fielding novel solutions as part of a collaborative, multi-disciplinary team
The ideal candidate will have obsessive attention to detail and never find "good enough" an acceptable outcome while consistently meeting fluid and tight deadlines with a strong sense of professional pride and personal ownership. Communication with other team members is key.
Qualifications
- Master’s with at least 3 years of experience or new grad PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related field
- US Citizen with the ability to obtain/maintain a security clearance. Current active clearance a plus.
- Experience in a product development or manufacturing environment
- Thorough knowledge of mechanical design, mechanics and material science concepts, and system integration
- Working knowledge of optical systems
- Working knowledge of circuit design and electronics
- Experience working with and managing vendors for part fabrication
- Experience designing with 3D CAD software, preferably SolidWorks, to create complex assemblies and parts
- Ability to clearly communicate design rationale and results
- Experience planning and executing on prototype build plans
The salary range is: $102,400-$135,680. Salary ranges will vary and are based on several factors, including geographic location, market competitiveness and equity amongst internal employees in similar roles. Positions may also qualify for SRI's Pay for Outstanding Performance program or the annual Performance Based Compensation program. SRI also has a competitive benefits package, to view details please go to https://www.sri.com/resources/benefits/. SRI will accept applications until the position is filled.
SRI is an independent nonprofit research institute headquartered in Menlo Park, Calif., with a rich history of supporting government and industry. We create and deliver world-changing solutions for a safer, healthier, and more sustainable future. For almost 80 years, we have collaborated across technical and scientific disciplines to discover and develop groundbreaking products and technologies and bring innovations and ideas to the marketplace.