Wichita State University - Research Engineers – Job ID #8494 in the Wichita, Kansas

DUTIES: 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. Performs thermal testing and physical testing for various non-ITAR regulated customer programs, using Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), Modulated Differential Scanning Calorimetry (MDSC), Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA), and the Laser Flash method. Performs flame testing with the use of Micro-scale Combustion Calorimeter (MCC) Vertical Flame Propagation (VFP); and prepare specimens for mechanical testing. Performs data analysis, thermoplastic/thermoset hand layup fabrication and bonding. Prepares samples and run calibration of equipment. Performs ASTM test procedures for Thermal Testing and decipher data to show Glass Transition Temperature (Tg), Enthalpy, Coefficient of Thermal Expansion, and Heat of Diffusivity. Researches, designs, evaluates, installs, operates and maintains mechanical products and equipment, using CATIA V5 and MATLAB. 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. 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.
 
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or related STEM field. 1 year of experience working in a research laboratory with the following: Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Dynamic Mechanical Analysis (DMA), Modulated Differential Scanning Calorimetry (MDSC), Thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA), Thermomechanical Analysis (TMA), and the Laser Flash method. Demonstrated knowledge of the preparation of samples, as well as the maintenance and calibration of equipment. Demonstrated ability with ASTM test procedures used in Thermal Testing, including deciphering data to show Glass Transition Temperature (Tg), Enthalpy, Coefficient of Thermal Expansion, and Heat of Diffusivity. Demonstrated ability with MS Office, CATIA V5 and MATLAB.