Research Assistant - College of Engineering - Department of Mechanical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University

Carnegie Mellon University

Other Engineering

Pittsburgh, PA, USA

Posted on May 29, 2026

Carnegie Mellon University is a private, global research university that stands among the world’s most renowned education institutions. With ground-breaking brain science, path-breaking performances, creative start-ups, big data, big ambitions, hands-on learning, and a whole lot of robots, CMU doesn’t imagine the future, we invent it. If you’re passionate about joining a community that challenges the curious to deliver work that matters, your journey starts here!

Innovation. Interdisciplinary collaboration. Complex problem solving. In Carnegie Mellon University’s Department of Mechanical Engineering, faculty members, researchers, and students are revolutionizing focus areas in advanced manufacturing, bioengineering, computational engineering, energy and the environment, product design, and robotics. In addition, they are using their expertise in interdisciplinary research centers across the university.

Carnegie Mellon University’s department of Mechanical Engineering is searching for a Research Assistant to join their team. This is an exciting opportunity for someone who thrives in an interesting and challenging work environment. You will contribute to the department by conducting research in the FORGE Lab on reinforcement learning methods for control of physical processes, with applications in additive manufacturing and help develop and evaluate RL agents in simulated environments and contribute to related publications.


Your core responsibilities will include:

  • Conduct research under PI supervision

  • Contribute to manuscripts and lab activities

  • Present results at lab meetings

  • Develop and train reinforcement learning agents for control of physical processes in simulated environments.

  • Build and maintain simulation environments and reward formulations for RL experiments.

  • Document methods and results for publications and technical reports.

Flexibility, excellence, and passion are vital qualities within Carnegie Mellon University. Inclusion, collaboration and cultural sensitivity are valued competencies at CMU. Therefore, we are in search of a team member who is able to effectively interact with a varied population of internal and external partners at a high level of integrity. We are looking for someone who shares our values and who will support the mission of the university through their work.

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree. Master’s degree preferred.

  • 0-1 years of experience

  • Hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks, foundational machine learning knowledge, and Python proficiency.

  • A combination of education and relevant experience from which comparable knowledge is demonstrated may be considered.

Requirements:

  • Successful background check

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits, available to all full-time Carnegie Mellon University employees. Experience the full spectrum of advantages, from comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance to enticing retirement savings programs. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, and take well-deserved breaks with generous paid time off and holidays. Rest easy knowing you're covered by life and accidental death and disability insurance. For a comprehensive overview of the benefits awaiting you, explore: https://www.cmu.edu/jobs/benefits-at-a-glance.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond

just credentials, we consider the role & responsibilities, your invaluable work experience, and the

knowledge gained through education and training. We acknowledge and appreciate your unique

key skills and the diverse perspectives you bring. Our commitment to fostering an inclusive

work environment means we also account for geographic differentials. Your journey with us is

about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and

personal aspirations.

Are you interested in this exciting opportunity?! Apply today!

Joining the CMU team opens the door to an array of exceptional benefits.

Benefits eligible employees enjoy a wide array of benefits including comprehensive medical, prescription, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous retirement savings program with employer contributions. Unlock your potential with tuition benefits, take well-deserved breaks with ample paid time off and observed holidays, and rest easy with life and accidental death and disability insurance.

Additional perks include a free Pittsburgh Regional Transit bus pass, access to our Family Concierge Team to help navigate childcare needs, fitness center access, and much more!

For a comprehensive overview of the benefits available, explore our Benefits page.

At Carnegie Mellon, we value the whole package when extending offers of employment. Beyond credentials, we evaluate the role and responsibilities, your valuable work experience, and the knowledge gained through education and training. We appreciate your unique skills and the perspective you bring. Your journey with us is about more than just a job; it’s about finding the perfect fit for your professional growth and personal aspirations.

Are you interested in an exciting opportunity with an exceptional organization?! Apply today!

Location

Pittsburgh, PA

Job Function

Researchers

Position Type

Staff – Fixed Term (Fixed Term)

Full Time/Part time

Full time

Pay Basis

Hourly

More Information:

  • Please visit Why Carnegie Mellonto learn more about becoming part of an institution inspiring innovations that change the world.

  • Click here to view a listing of employee benefits

  • Carnegie Mellon University is an Equal Opportunity Employer/Disability/Veteran.

  • Statement of Assurance