Job Summary

Project Engineer – Digital Transformation
Center for In-Space Manufacturing (CISM)
Three-Year Project-Based Position | West Lafayette, IN

Purdue University is seeking a Project Engineer – Digital Transformation to help shape the future of manufacturing for both Earth and space environments. This role offers a unique opportunity to work at the frontier of research and technology, supporting projects that enable intelligent, autonomous, and resilient manufacturing systems through digital innovation.

As part of the Center for In-Space Manufacturing (CISM)—the nation’s first center dedicated to in-space manufacturing—you will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team pioneering digital frameworks and modeling tools that power next-generation manufacturing capabilities. Working alongside experts in in-space electronics fabrication and nano-/micro-scale materials processing, you will help create an integrated digital-physical ecosystem that transforms design, simulation, and data-driven decision making.

What You’ll Do

• Lead and support digital transformation initiatives in manufacturing, assembly, and operations for terrestrial and space applications
• Develop and implement digital twins and advanced modeling systems, including thermo-mechanical and multi-physics models
• Apply data-driven decision-making approaches leveraging artificial intelligence and machine learning to improve manufacturing outcomes
• Collaborate closely with engineering and research teams to integrate digital tools into active manufacturing and testing operations
• Contribute to the creation of innovative digital frameworks that support autonomous and resilient engineering systems

What We’re Looking For

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in mechanical engineering, systems engineering, materials science, or a related field
• Experience with digital modeling tools, simulation frameworks, or AI/ML applications in engineering
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with an enthusiasm for emerging digital technologies
• Collaborative mindset and ability to contribute to cross-functional research initiatives

Why Purdue
At Purdue, you’ll join a global community driven by curiosity, innovation, and impact. You’ll collaborate with brilliant minds and gain access to cutting-edge research facilities that empower you to solve real-world challenges. As a Project Engineer, you’ll not only advance high-impact digital transformation efforts but also play a vital role in shaping how humanity builds and operates beyond Earth.

Purdue offers a collaborative and forward-thinking environment where your ideas can thrive—and where you can help define the next era of manufacturing.

Take your engineering career further—apply today and help build what’s next, both on Earth and beyond.

About Us

The School of Mechanical Engineering at Purdue University is truly unique.  We began in 1882 as experts in locomotives (thus the name "Boilermakers!") And now in the 21st century, we continue to move the world forward by combining the latest technologies with the strongest of fundamentals.

Purdue hosts the nation’s No. 1 Manufacturing and Supply Chain Program. Further Manufacturing and Materials Research Laboratories (MMRL), one of the nation's largest shared laboratories for physical and digital manufacturing research and education. ME hosts nation’s first Center for In-Space Manufacturing (CISM). Additionally, Maker spaces and workshops, like the Bechtel Innovation Design Center, allow students to develop and build any prototype they can imagine.  The world's largest academic cleanroom, Birck Nanotechnology Center, enables pioneering advancements in nanotechnology.  The world's largest academic propulsion lab, Zucrow Labs, is the birthplace of next-generation jet engines and rockets.  The world's largest academic HVAC lab, Herrick Labs, shapes the future of smart buildings.  We have the only accredited Motorsports Engineering degree program in the nation. And with 50,000 students to collaborate across all disciplines, there's no limit to what Purdue ME students can accomplish.

We maintain high standards, whether in the classroom, the laboratory, or the workplace.  Purdue ME is one of the top ten schools in the country, as ranked by US News & World Report.  98% of our students pass the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam.  97% of our undergraduates engage in experiential learning while they're here (like internships, co-ops, and research).  43% of our students gain international experience (the national average is just 5%).  Students come from all over the world to attend Purdue ME; 17% of our undergraduates and 63% of our graduate students are international.  Plus, more than 80,000 Purdue Engineering graduates form one of the largest and most supportive alumni networks in the world.

When you join Purdue University, you join a community that keeps moving forward. For more than 150 years, we’ve been known for not only our groundbreaking work in STEM research, but also for our collective imagination, ingenuity and innovation. 

What We're Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Materials Science, Computer Engineering, or a related field
• A minimum of one (1) year of relevant experience (preferred) in digital manufacturing, computational modeling, or AI/ML applications in engineering
• Demonstrated experience with digital twin development, finite element analysis (FEA), or data-driven manufacturing tools

Preferred:

• Experience working in multidisciplinary research environments or R&D settings
• Multiple years of experience in digital manufacturing, computational modeling, or AI/ML applications in engineering

Skills Needed:

• Proficiency in modeling and simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL, Abaqus, or similar)
• Strong programming and data analysis skills (Python, MATLAB, C++, or equivalent)
• Familiarity with machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch, or scikit-learn)
• Understanding of manufacturing processes (additive manufacturing, materials processing, etc.)
• Strong communication, documentation, and collaboration skills
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a cross-functional team

Additional Information:

• Purdue University will not sponsor employment authorization for this position  
• A background check will be required for employment in this position
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility:  Defined Contribution Waiting Period   
• Benefit Statement: Purdue University offers a substantial Benefit Package including medical, dental, and vision insurance as well as a generous paid time off package for sick and vacation days

Career Stream

Professional 2

• Pay Band S120
• Job Code #20002707

Career pathmaker: https://www.purdue.edu/hr/careerpathmaker/

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an EOE employer.