New

Research Engineer

California Institute of Technology
vision insurance, parental leave, paid time off, sick time, tuition reimbursement
United States, California, Pasadena
May 14, 2026
Caltech is a world-renowned science and engineering institute that marshals some of the world's brightest minds and most innovative tools to address fundamental scientific questions. We thrive on finding and cultivating talented people who are passionate about what they do. Join us and be a part of the diverse Caltech community. Job Summary Provide technical assistance to a group of professors and graduate students involved in engineering research related to mechanical behavior of materials and structures; materials include polymers, metals, and composites. Work involves the design, set-up, and operation of laboratory equipment for research. Includes operation and maintenance of hydraulic, optical, and electronic instrumentation. Essential Job Duties Fabricate from engineering sketches and oral instructions, circuits and devices for measurements and fixtures for mechanical testing; repair mechanical instruments. Maintain equipment related to solid mechanics research and assist students in the operation of this equipment; document operating procedures when necessary. Order supplies in cooperation with administrative staff, and provide technical support in optics and data acquisition. Perform experiments for and under the direction of faculty. Basic Qualifications Associate's Degree in Sciences or higher. Minimum of 10 years of experience in an engineering research laboratory environment that demonstrates a background that includes: machining, electronics (hardware and software), optics (visible and infrared), data acquisition, instrumentation, and computing. Ability to take initiative and perform tasks with minimal guidance. Ability to work in a team environment for effective goal setting and task efficiency. Preferred Qualifications Background in work in mechanical settings in higher education. Required Documents Resume Hiring Range $38.50 - $55.70 per hour The salary of the finalist(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, internal equity, experience, education, specialty and training. As one of the largest employers in Pasadena, CA, Caltech is committed to providing comprehensive benefits to eligible employees and their eligible dependents. Our benefits package includes competitive compensation, health, dental, and vision insurance, retirement savings plans, generous paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick time, parental leave, bereavement, etc.), tuition reimbursement, and more. Non-benefit eligible employees will have access to some benefits such as onsite counseling and sick time. Learn more about our benefits and staff perks. EEO Statement We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. Caltech is a VEVRAA Federal Contractor. To read more Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) go to eeoc_self_print_poster.pdf. Disability Accommodations Caltech complies with the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). We consider reasonable accommodation measures that may be necessary for eligible applicants and employees to perform the essential functions of a position. If you would like to request an accommodation to complete this application, interview, or otherwise participate in the employee selection process, please contact Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu. Additionally, if you do not meet the basic qualifications of a role but believe you can perform the essential functions of the job with reasonable accommodation, please reach out to Caltech Recruiting at employment@caltech.edu.