Structural Dynamics Engineer; R&D Engineer

What You Will Do

The Test Engineering Group (V-14) is responsible for system level testing that includes project initiation, experimental design and analysis, hardware design and analysis, and fabrication for small component level up to full scale integrated tests. Test activities will include collaborations with W- and Q-Divisions, the hydrodynamic test program, dynamic materials experimental programs, joint test operations with Sandia and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories, and supporting experiments performed at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS).

Projects vary widely from small weapon component and system level testing to experimental programs requiring containment/confinement system design and testing that is proven to contain detonation products and debris.

We are seeking an engineer with a passion for structural dynamics to join the testing development and structural analysis (TDSA) team. Our mission is to improve dynamic analysis of weapons systems through the integration of advanced design, simulation, and testing techniques. Our small, focused team is composed of engineers with expertise in finite element simulation, data analysis, multi-input multiple-output (MIMO) test methods, and structural design.

Test, modeling, simulation, and design come together into one integrated team to develop and demonstrate new capabilities in support of the weapons mission. Our ideal candidate does not need to have experience in all these areas, but must have a willingness to learn, the initiative to tackle problems independently, an enthusiasm for structural dynamics, and a desire to develop novel solutions.

This position will be filled at either the R&D Engineer 2 or 3 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.

At the R&D Engineer 2 level, you will be trained to plan and execute complex MIMO tests. You will analyze test results in near real-time to guide test execution and will frequently perform detailed post-test analyses to understand the dynamics of the test structure. You will build finite element models and update those models based on test results. In completing each task, you will be expected to contribute to a collaborative code base so that teammates can reuse and extend your work.

In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, at the R&D Engineer 3 level you will be required to provide technical leadership in developing novel test techniques, interface with customers, and engage in strategic planning to advance LANL's capabilities.

Knowledge of structural dynamics and dynamic testing. Ability to leverage science and engineering fundamentals to develop new skills.

Application experience analyzing test data (especially multi-dimensional test data), and experience correlating models to test data.

Demonstrated, successful experience working in an integrated team environment; demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks in an environment of shifting priorities; strong interpersonal, oral and written communication skills and ability to interact effectively with all levels of personnel and external customers.

Demonstrated expertise in structural dynamics and vibration testing / experimental modal analysis through work experience or record of publication.

Demonstrated experience leading engineering teams and working with customers and other stakeholders to define testing tasks and plan deliverables.

Position requires a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution and 4 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation.

Position requires a Master's Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution and 6 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. At this level a Ph.D. may be preferred.

Advanced degrees in engineering or similar technical fields are strongly preferred.

Experience with experimental modal analysis is strongly desired.

Experience with environmental testing activities, especially shock and vibration testing, is desired.

Experience with the MATLAB and/or Python programming environments, with object-oriented programming, and with version control systems (e.g. Git) is desired.

Experience with implicit dynamics simulation in ABAQUS is desired, as is specific experience with building modal models.

Experience specifying data acquisition equipment or…