Research Assistant in Mechanical Engineering

Johns Hopkins University

Requisition #: A-172953-3
Status: Full Time
Type: Non-Tenure Track – Full Time
School: Whiting School of Engineering
Department/Program: Department of Mechanical Engineering
Salary: $80,000 – $160,000
Location: Baltimore, MD 21218
Closing Date: Open until filled
Apply at: apply.interfolio.com/172953

General Description

The Johns Hopkins University Agile and Intelligent Robotics Laboratory (AIRO Lab) (airo.lcsr.jhu.edu) seeks a Robotics Research Engineer/Scientist to lead the development of aerial robotic systems.

The ideal candidate is a highly motivated engineer capable of working both independently and collaboratively with faculty and students. The successful applicant will contribute to all aspects of the flight stack, including mechanical and electrical hardware, firmware, and software, as well as the entire system life cycle—from conceptualization and design to fabrication and testing.

Familiarity with open-source autopilot platforms such as Ardupilot and PX4, and user interfaces like Mission Planner and QGroundControl, is strongly preferred.

Candidates should also be proficient in computer-aided design (ProE or SolidWorks) and experienced in firmware/software development using the Robot Operating System (ROS).

Projects emphasize the development of aerial and aquatic robotic systems, particularly those operating in extreme environments and challenging flight conditions.

Responsibilities

• Manage multiple design and research priorities.
• Collaborate with faculty, students, engineers, and lab personnel.
• Research, design, and validate aerial vehicle systems.
• Analyze and troubleshoot problems, propose and implement solutions.
• Document designs, assembly methods, and installation procedures.
• Maintain laboratory safety standards, provide training, and manage lab operations.
• Travel to research sites (<10%).

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or equivalent.
  Candidates with significant relevant experience may be considered in lieu of degree.
• Demonstrated understanding of mechatronic system design and fabrication.
• Strong communication and organizational skills.
• Solid grasp of engineering design principles and validation processes.
• Hands-on experience with aerial vehicle design and fabrication.
• Experience in material selection and mechanical design.
• Proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD).
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes—traditional (lathe, mill, casting) and modern (laser cutting, 3D printing).
• Background in firmware/software development for robotics or aerial systems.
• Familiarity with electronic systems and components for aerial vehicles.

Preferred:

• Prior experience with aerial robotic systems.
• Strong background in fabrication and prototyping.
• Expertise with ProE/SolidWorks.
• Familiarity with engineering best practices.
• Experience with Ardupilot or PX4 autopilot development using ROS.
• Prior flight testing experience.
• Experience with fixed-wing aerial vehicles.

Application Instructions

This full-time position is available immediately. Interested candidates should apply via Interfolio using the link above.
Applications must include:

• A detailed resume/CV
• At least three professional references

Contact for further information:
Ada Simari, Administrator
Department of Mechanical Engineering
Johns Hopkins University
asimari@jhu.edu

Salary Range

The salary range reflects Johns Hopkins University’s good-faith estimate at the time of posting. Final compensation will depend on multiple factors, including the candidate’s experience, education, skills, location, and internal equity.

Total Rewards

Johns Hopkins University offers a comprehensive total rewards package supporting health, life, career, and retirement.
More information: https://hr.jhu.edu/benefits-worklife/