Test Engineer - Aerodynamic Wind Tunnel
About The Position
The Wind Tunnel Test Engineer role is a critical member of the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) 716th Test Squadron team, responsible for planning, executing, and analyzing complex aerodynamic and propulsion integration testing within AEDC's wind tunnels and associated facilities. This role involves applying engineering principles, efficient engineering tool development, and experimental techniques to gather aerodynamic data for developing weapons systems across a wide range of flight conditions. The test engineer will be responsible for all phases of testing from initial concept and design through final reporting. This position requires the ability to work 1st (0700 – 1500), 2nd (1500 – 2300) or 3rd (2300 – 0700) shift on occasions when assigned during test execution phase to support Test Squadron directed schedule throughput needs.
Requirements
- Bachelor's in an engineering or science discipline.
- Experience with aerodynamic performance and testing concepts.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience preparing detailed technical reports and presenting findings to customers and leadership.
- Must be a US citizen with the ability to possess a Secret security clearance.
Nice To Haves
- Master's in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
- Direct test engineering experience in high speed closed loop aerodynamic wind tunnels.
- Experience with instrumentation troubleshooting.
- Proficiency with 3-D CAD modeling
- Advanced MS Excel and Python programming skills
- Has an active Secret security clearance.
Responsibilities
- Test Planning & Design: Collaborate with customers, test managers, and a multi-disciplinary core test team to define test objectives, scope, and requirements for aerodynamic wind tunnel testing, including store separation, stability & control, inlet integration, control effectiveness, jet interaction, and heat transfer.
- Develop detailed test plans, including test matrices, instrumentation requirements, data acquisition strategies, and safety protocols.
- Interpret pre-test simulations and analyses to aid in selection of appropriate instrumentation, including strain gage balances, pressure transducers, accelerometers, and high-speed imaging systems.
- Develop and maintain detailed documentation of test setups, procedures, and results.
- Test Execution: Oversee the installation and calibration of test articles and instrumentation within the wind tunnel.
- Monitor wind tunnel equipment during testing, ensuring data quality and adherence to safety procedures.
- Troubleshoot technical issues that arise during testing and implement corrective actions.
- Coordinate with wind tunnel operators, instrumentation technicians, and other support personnel to ensure smooth and efficient test execution.
- Ensure all testing activities comply with relevant technical go/no-go and AEDC safety policies.
- Data Analysis & Reporting: Process and analyze large datasets acquired during testing using specialized software tools
- Prepare comprehensive test reports documenting test procedures, results, and conclusions.
- Present test findings to customers and stakeholders through briefings, presentations, and written reports.
- Technical Expertise & Innovation: Maintain a strong understanding of aerodynamic theory and emerging experimental techniques.
- Stay abreast of advancements in wind tunnel testing and related fields.
- Contribute to the development of new test methodologies and capabilities within the AEDC/716th Test Squadron.
- Safety: Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures.
- Participate in safety training programs.
- Identify and mitigate potential safety hazards in the test environment.
- Promote a culture of safety within the team.
Benefits
- Competitive Wages
- Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
- Generous company-funded Basic Life Insurance
- Company-funded Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
- 11 Paid Federal Holidays
- Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)
- Dependent Care and Medical Flexible Spending Accounts
- 401(k) retirement plan with company match and 100% immediate vesting
- Tuition Reimbursement for ongoing training, continuing education, or advanced degree programs
- Robust Employee Assistance Program
- Employee Referral Bonus Program
- Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
- Spot Awards for exemplary individual performance
- Discretionary performance-based bonuses
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
