ENGINEER - RESEARCH ENGINEER - Experimental/Computational Mechanics
Southwest Research Institute
San Antonio, TX
Who We Are:
The Computational Mechanics Section does modeling and testing of materials under extreme conditions (elevated temperatures, high pressures, large strains, high strain-rates) as well as conventional and hypersonics computer fluid dynamics and testing that are used to support research and development efforts in defense, aerospace, and hypersonics applications.
Objectives of this Role:
- Support research and testing projects that include material tests, ballistic tests, energetic and explosive materials, high speed video analysis, implementation of stress/strain/temperature/laser diagnostics, mechanical design, and computer simulation of dynamic events.
- Ability to work in a team and strong communication, interpersonal, and business skills.
- Participate in individual and collaborative research projects as well as support promotional activities for research programs.
- Interact with both commercial and government clients, develop approaches based on client problems, needs, and goals, and manage tasks to successful completion within technical, budget, and schedule constraints under the direction of senior staff.
- Through experiments and computations, develop understanding and models of impact events and fluid flow.Write technical reports, make presentations to clients, and author submissions to journals.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
- Testing of materials with MTS, Hopkinson Bar, Plate Impact, ballistic impact, etc.
- Develop algorithms in Matlab, Python, FORTRAN, or similar for analyzing data from high strain-rate and ballistic experiments and simulations.
- Computer simulations of materials under shock and impact and fluid flow in hypersonic environment.
- Use of lasers in various applications.
- Use of digital image correlation.
Requirements:
- Requires a Bachelors, Masters or a PhD in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Engineering, Nuclear Engineering or Aerospace Engineering.
- 0-5 years: Experience with computer codes applied to impact problems and/or fluids or radiation.
- 0-5 years: Experience with testing materials using universal testing machines.
- Experience with testing materials at high strain rates, plasticity, and continuum mechanics is a plus.
- Experience with lasers is a plus.
- A valid/clear driver's license is required.
About the Company
Southwest Research Institute
We are R&D problem solvers providing independent, premier services to government and industry clients. Our multidisciplinary nature allows us to rapidly assemble diverse teams to tackle problems from multiple directions. We push the boundaries of science and technology to develop innovative solutions that advance the state of the art and improve human health and safety. Operating as a nonprofit since our 1947 inception, we work in the public’s best interest and toward the betterment of mankind. At SwRI, we tirelessly pursue innovation and excellence in science and technology for the betterment of humankind. We support work on nearly 4,000 client projects at any given time through a wide range of technical competencies with 2,574 staff members in nine technical divisions. Client services include, but are not limited to, Automotive and Transportation, Biomedical & Health, Chemistry & Materials, Computers and Electronics, Defense & Security, Earth & Space, Energy & Environment, and Manufacturing & Construction.
TECHNICAL DIVISIONS
- Applied Physics-Developing advanced electronic and microelectronic devices, power supplies, voice and data communication systems, robot test services, and payloads
- Applied Power-Using physical science research and applied engineering to produce sensors, instruments, and hardware used worldwide.
- Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses-Resolving technical and regulatory issues related to a potential geologic repository for spent nuclear fule and high-level radioactive waste.
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering-Performing research and technical services using chemistry and chemical engineering technology.
- Defense and & Intelligence Solutions-Providing advanced direction finding and tracking systems through geolocation system development.
- Fuels and Lubricants Research-Performing fuels and lubricants research activities to meet regulatory and competitive goals.
- Intelligent Systems-Providing engineering services in resaerch and development of complex systems and equipment.
- Mechanical Engineering-Improving safety, reliability, efficiency and life of new or existing mechanical components or systems.
- Powertrain Engineering-Designing and developing vehicle and engine components to achieve performance and emissions goals.
- Space Science & Engineering-Developing and managing advanced scientific payloads aboard satellites and sounding rockets.
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Innovation in science and technology has been a hallmark of Southwest Research Institute since its earliest days. It's no exaggeration to say we are committed to advancing science and applying technology to benefit government, industry, and all humankind. That is our mission. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach allows us to successfully solve clients' most challenging problems. Today, we are a leader among independent, nonprofit research and development organizations. Our staff of 2,574 scientists, engineers, analysts, and support staff members continues to accomplish outstanding fundamental and applied engineering and research for clients from diverse segments of government and industry. Adam L. Hamilton, P.E, President and CEO