RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - High Speed Propulsion Systems

Who We Are: The Propulsion & Energy Machinery Section performs engineering R&D in the fields of air-breathing and chemical propulsion. Our technologies are advancing state-of-the-art propulsion technologies across the aerospace and defense sectors. Objectives of this Role: Support the design, development, analysis, and testing of chemical propulsion systems, including solid rocket motors (SRMs), solid fuel ramjets (SFRJs), rotating detonation engines (RDEs), and other advanced rocket and high-speed propulsion technologies.

Apply mechanical engineering principles, including fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, machine design, and pressure vessel design, to develop propulsion hardware and experimental test systems operating under extreme conditions Utilize computer-aided design (CAD) software, including SolidWorks, to develop detailed mechanical designs, engineering drawings, component assemblies, and fabrication specifications for propulsion systems and experimental hardware.

Develop and apply engineering models, analytical tools, and computational methods to evaluate propulsion system performance, guide hardware design, interpret experimental results, and support technology development. Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to execute research and development programs, communicate technical results, prepare reports and proposals, and interface with commercial and government clients.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities: Provide analytical and experimental support across multiple R&D projects, including literature reviews, engineering calculations, mechanical design, modeling, and simulation using commercial engineering software such as ANSYS Workbench or APDL. Provide mechanical design and engineering support for rocket and missile propulsion, combustion, power generation, and related technologies. Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams of engineers and technicians to develop practical engineering solutions.

Support the design, assembly, instrumentation, and operation of experimental test systems. Plan and execute testing, develop new test rigs, and modify existing facilities to meet evolving project objectives. Coordinate activities with engineers and technicians. Apply first-principles engineering approaches to solve technical challenges, evaluate analytical and experimental results, and troubleshoot mechanical systems, experimental hardware, and computational models. Identify root causes and implement corrective actions.

Perform mechanical design and engineering development under the direction of senior engineers. Exercise creativity, technical judgment, and independent problem-solving skills to develop innovative solutions and support research projects and proposal efforts.

Requirements: Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related engineering degree field. 2+ years: Experience with combustion and/or propulsion systems involving solid propellants, gaseous fuels, or liquid fuels.

Familiarity with experimental test methodologies, instrumentation, and combustion diagnostics. 2+ years: Experience with the design, development, commissioning, and testing of high-pressure and/or extreme-temperature systems, including cryogenic, combustion, and propulsion applications. 2-5 years: Mechanical design and analysis experience, including the application of finite element analysis (FEA) and other engineering tools to evaluate structural integrity, component stresses, and fitness for service. 2-5 years: Familiarity with applicable engineering codes and standards, including ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code and ASME B31 Piping Codes.

Experience with mechanical assembly, fabrication, maintenance, and troubleshooting of experimental hardware. A valid/clear driver's license is required.