Mechanical Test Engineer (ES4)

Amentum•Huntsville, AL

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

Perform testing for planned materials used in space nuclear reactors for long duration deep space mission. Conduct tests and processing post test data & analyses. Generate peer reviewed white papers on test results for AIAA and/or JANNAF Conferences. Perform systems level analysis needed to validate test readiness. Review analysis and test results associated with materials development used in nuclear propulsion designs. Maintain training on-site and off-site and keep up to date within contract compliance requirements. Design and implement laboratory-scale plumbing for high and low pressures gaseous systems. Model and wire breadboard-scale through network-scale communications. Program microprocessor devices using Arduino or Raspberry Pi. Model and wire facilities power interfaces. Program and integrate custom laboratory devices using LabVIEW and MATLAB. This job involves longer hours during testing. Some travel may be required.

Requirements

Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical or Nuclear engineering or related engineering field is required.
Typically, educational requirements are the equivalent of a minimum of a Masters with at least 3 years of experience, or BS with at least 5 years of experience.
Ability to attain a security clearance through the Department of Defense if needed later.
Cursory electronics background (e.g., circuit building, avionics for spacecraft).
Basic knowledge of electric propulsion concepts.
Hands-on experience with space propulsion research and development.
Some knowledge of small pressure fed thrusters (using green propellants).
Hardware Interfaces – can review a schematic and know what we’re trying to accomplish and implement.
Knowledge of nuclear types of fuels and reactors commonly used in such engines.
Basic working knowledge of cryogens and fuels.
Experience writing test plans and implementation of them into final test products.
Hands-on experience with laboratory pressure systems tubing, gauges, valves, and fittings.
Working knowledge of vacuum chambers and large volume air tanks.
Proficiency with off-the-shelf data acquisition instruments such as National Instruments, Omega, Fluke, or Eaton.
Must be a US Citizen and have a STAR ID

Nice To Haves

A master’s degree is preferred.
Degree from an ABET-accredited university is preferred.

Responsibilities

Perform testing for planned materials used in space nuclear reactors for long duration deep space mission.
Conduct tests and processing post test data & analyses.
Generate peer reviewed white papers on test results for AIAA and/or JANNAF Conferences.
Perform systems level analysis needed to validate test readiness.
Review analysis and test results associated with materials development used in nuclear propulsion designs.
Maintain training on-site and off-site and keep up to date within contract compliance requirements.
Design and implement laboratory-scale plumbing for high and low pressures gaseous systems.
Model and wire breadboard-scale through network-scale communications.
Program microprocessor devices using Arduino or Raspberry Pi.
Model and wire facilities power interfaces.
Program and integrate custom laboratory devices using LabVIEW and MATLAB.