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MIT - Massachusetts Institute of Technology

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"Mechanical Engineer 1"

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Mechanical Engineer 1

Staff

May 1, 2026

Location

Cambridge, MA

MIT

Type

Hybrid Staff

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering
2+ years experience
Optical design & opto-mechanical skills (preferred)
Exceptional communication

Research Areas

Astrophysics Instrumentation
Optical Design
Opto-Mechanical Engineering
Spaceflight Hardware
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Mechanical Engineer 1

MECHANICAL ENGINEER 1

MECHANICAL ENGINEER 1, Kavli Institute, to support ongoing and upcoming astrophysics instrument and observatory design, development, and fielding; leverage specialty skills in optical design and optical system mounting and accommodation (often referred to as an opto-mechanical engineer), supporting ongoing projects for spaceflight and ground observatories; be responsible for the specification, design, mechanical drawing generation, fabrication oversight, and occasional assembly of mechanical systems under the tutelage of MKI’s Senior Mechanical Engineer. This position is part of the MKI engineering and technical staff group, with peer support from MKI’s Senior Mechanical Engineer. Depending on needs, the engineer may also participate in prototyping or full fabrication of these designs. Over time, the engineer may work solely on a single project or may serve the needs of several projects, depending on both the team needs and individual skills. A high level of independent judgement is needed while working in a small team, but engineering oversight processes are in place to help this engineer grow in skills over time.

Job Requirements

  • REQUIRED: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field; a minimum of two years of experience or equivalent post-undergraduate education in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field; exceptional written and oral communication skills; and ability to handle confidential information and/or issues using discretion and judgment.
  • PREFERRED: Education and/or equivalent practical experience in optical design and/or opto-mechanical engineering; experience with research instrumentation, especially astrophysics optical, X-ray, or IR instrumentation; exposure to NASA and/or NSF design and development practices; and experience with spaceflight hardware design and implementation.

Hybrid arrangements are available, with a minimum of 60% on-campus time required. During peak times of design and build, full on-site time may be required.

Occasional domestic and/or international travel may be required.

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Frequently Asked Questions

🎓What are the required qualifications for this Mechanical Engineer 1 role?

The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or related field, plus a minimum of two years of experience or equivalent post-undergraduate education. Exceptional written and oral communication skills and the ability to handle confidential information with discretion are essential. Preferred skills include optical design and opto-mechanical engineering experience, especially in astrophysics instrumentation. Explore more research jobs for similar roles.

🔧What responsibilities will the Mechanical Engineer handle at Kavli Institute?

Support astrophysics instrument design, development, and fielding for spaceflight and ground observatories. Responsibilities include specification, design, mechanical drawing, fabrication oversight, and occasional assembly of opto-mechanical systems under senior guidance. Participate in prototyping and serve multiple projects as needed, exercising independent judgment in a small team. Check specialty jobs for related opportunities.

💻Is hybrid work available for this position?

Hybrid arrangements are available, requiring a minimum of 60% on-campus time. Full on-site presence may be needed during peak design and build phases. This supports work-life balance in Cambridge, MA research environments. See remote higher ed jobs for flexible options.

What preferred experience is valued for astrophysics mechanical engineering?

Preferred: Education or experience in optical design and opto-mechanical engineering; work with astrophysics optical, X-ray, or IR instrumentation; exposure to NASA/NSF practices; and spaceflight hardware design. These enhance fit for MKI projects. Learn more via postdoctoral research success tips.

📅What is the application deadline and travel requirement?

Applications close on May 1, 2026. Occasional domestic and/or international travel may be required for fielding observatories or projects. Apply early for this Kavli Institute staff role. Visit research assistant jobs for related positions.

📈How does this role support career growth in opto-mechanical engineering?

Work under MKI’s Senior Mechanical Engineer with peer support, oversight processes, and opportunities in prototyping/fabrication. High independent judgment in a small team fosters growth in astrophysics instrumentation. Tailored to build skills across projects. Boost your profile with a free resume template.
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