Department: NIAR Composites & Structures

Campus Location: Huntsville, AL

Hire Type: Full Time

Pay: Commensurate with experience

Work Schedule: Typically 8am – 5pm, Monday – Friday. Evenings and weekends may be required dependent upon business needs. The job is performed in person and on-site in Huntsville, AL.

Export Compliance Requirement: This position requires access to EAR or ITAR controlled technologies. Applicants are required to be eligible for employment under U.S. export control laws and must meet the requirement of being a “U.S. Citizen”.

Job Details

The National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) is a fast-growing area within WSU and is expanding into other areas including Huntsville, AL. NIAR is known globally for our expertise in the most critical areas of aerospace research and development.

The NIAR Composites and Structures Lab is looking for an engineer with a strong background in thermal and structural computational analysis to join their team. This position utilizes finite element analysis – to predict performance of advanced materials and structures and inform characterization and integration of composite materials, ceramic matrix composites and metals in extreme environmental conditions.

This position is based in Huntsville, AL and works closely with engineers at NIAR and Redstone Arsenal. If you are detail oriented, enjoy challenging and rewarding work, and like being part of a team, consider applying for this position.

Job Summary

Independently interprets, organizes, executes, and coordinates research assignments in a field or specialization of an engineering discipline. Formulates and conducts research on problems of considerable scope and complexity. Explores subject area and defines scope and selection of problems for investigation through conceptually related studies or series of projects of lesser scope.

Essential Functions

Interprets, organizes, executes, and coordinates engineering research assignments concerned with unique or controversial problems. Applies diversified knowledge of engineering research principles, practices, and protocols in research projects; makes recommendations and conclusions which serve as the basis for decision making in a specialty area. Formulates and conducts systematic problem analysis and resolution in an area of considerable scope and complexity through series of complete and conceptually related studies, or through a variety of projects of lesser scope. Receives administrative supervision, with assignments given in terms of broad general objectives and limits. Develops model concepts and approaches as an individual researcher and acts independently on technical matters. Collaborates with users and principal investigators on design, analysis, application, and reporting of research projects; provides technical leadership and technique consultation. Prepares analyses, reports, and other documentation for publication; presents findings at local, national, and/or international meetings. Prepares, or assists with the preparation of, materials for grant proposals to obtain funding in support of research activities. Serves as investigator on single or multiple projects of complexity and scope consistent with above criteria, and/or manages a research unit. Maintains currency of knowledge with respect to relevant state-of-the-art technology, equipment, and/or systems. Other duties as assigned.

Required Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related STEM field

Two (2) years of related experience in a STEM field

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Ability to work with advanced materials and/or advanced material data at various environmental conditions with focus on FEM generation
Ability to read and interpret blueprints, technical drawings, schematics, or computer-generated reports
Ability to work in a team environment
Proficient in relevant FEM software
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in related field

Three (3) years of related experience

Physical Requirements

Ability to ascend and descend ladders and/or stairs.

Ability to position self for inspection, construction or maintenance of equipment including confined, elevated and loud noise spaces.

Ability to position self to move and/or transfer materials and/or supplies.

Ability to move or traverse across campus, within buildings and offices, and/or across external environments.

Ability to use tools, equipment, and technology necessary to do the job. This includes dexterity in instrument manipulation.

Ability to communicate with others and accurately exchange information.

Ability to interpret effectively, accurately and impartially, both receptively and expressively.

Ability to operate a computer and other office equipment