Senior Dynamics Engineer

Element Materials Technology•Huntsville, AL

1d•$110,000 - $130,000

About The Position

Element is seeking an experienced and strategic Senior Dynamics Engineer to take technical ownership of dynamics testing programs, lead facility standardization, and drive operational efficiency. The role leads high-expertise testing programs, mentors junior engineering staff, oversees preventative maintenance, and collaborates with sales, scheduling, and management to align technical execution with strategic revenue goals. The engineer leads complex dynamics testing from setup through execution, including vibration and shock testing, and works with Vibration Research control software and systems. The role also covers CAD and fixture design, pressurized test systems and schematics, instrumentation and data acquisition, secure document management, reporting workflows, capital expenditure projects, lab scheduling, and technician guidance. The position offers a salary of $110,000–$130,000 per year, depending on experience.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
At least 5 years of hands-on experience in dynamics testing, environmental simulation, structural dynamics, or vibration laboratory operations.
Hands-on proficiency with Vibration Research (VibrationVIEW) controller software for vibration and shock profile generation, setup, and control.
Proficiency in SolidWorks for 3D CAD modeling, fixture evaluation, and reading or creating mechanical drawings.
In-depth knowledge of shaker systems, digital vibration controllers, standard accelerometer types, strain gauge installations, and pressure transducers or sensors.
Strong technical proficiency in pressurization systems, fluid and pneumatic test setups, pressure safety standards, and reading or drafting system schematics (P&IDs).
Proficiency in testing standards such as MIL-STD-810, RTCA DO-160, and launch vehicle or aerospace acceptance and qualification standards.
Demonstrated track record in technical report writing, data review, and data auditing.
Proven experience mentoring junior engineers or technical staff, delegating workflows, and leading cross-functional process improvements.
Strong technical communication and presentation skills for interfacing with customers, sales teams, and senior management.

Nice To Haves

Experience with aerospace hardware qualification programs, including commercial space or launch vehicle programs requiring high-pressure pneumatic or hydraulic testing during dynamic exposure.
Advanced experience designing test fixtures and tooling in SolidWorks.
Advanced experience working in a dynamics test lab.
Experience performing vibration and shock testing on a dual shaker system.

Responsibilities

Lead high-complexity dynamics test programs using Vibration Research systems and software, including basic and advanced sine sweeps, random vibration, and shock testing, while meeting customer requirements and industry standards.
Use SolidWorks to model test setups, review fixture designs, interpret schematics, and ensure proper mechanical interfaces between test articles and shaker systems.
Oversee test setups involving pressurized systems, pneumatics, or fluid loops; interpret, review, and author piping and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs) and fluid or pressurization schematics.
Oversee instrumentation design and data-acquisition setups involving accelerometers, strain gauges, pressure transducers, and controllers, as well as standard server folder structures for secure document control.
Improve data handoffs between lab technicians and the reporting team, targeting a 10-day report delivery lead time after testing.
Coordinate laboratory operations and administrative workflows using VLAB laboratory management software.
Work with facilities and management to evaluate, finalize, and execute capital expenditure plans, lab layout improvements, pressurized system upgrades, and equipment projects.
Establish structured mentoring and deliver training on lab safety, Vibration Research software and shaker fundamentals, instrumentation, pressure safety protocols, and administrative processes.
Delegate routine test campaigns and customer communications to junior engineers and guide their development.
Oversee technician workflows, file compliance, safety procedures, and standard operating procedures across the dynamics lab.
Finalize, implement, and maintain preventative maintenance plans and daily checkout procedures for dynamics shakers, controllers, pressure-control hardware, and instrumentation.
Partner with scheduling and department leadership to develop weekly and monthly lab schedules that optimize testing throughput.
Collaborate with department managers, Sales, and Quoting teams to evaluate the incoming dynamics pipeline, support proposal development, and align operational goals with quarterly revenue targets.