Experimental Combustion Research Engineer Aerospace Engineer VNASA Glenn Research CenterBrook Park, OhioHX5 is currently seeking an Experimental Combustion Research Engineer to join our team in Brook Park, Ohio in support of the GEARS contract at NASA Glenn Research Center.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities: - Plan, conduct, and support experimental research and measurement campaigns within NASA Glenn Research Center combustor facilities and at partner test sites.
- Develop, configure, and operate optical diagnostic systems for combustion characterization. Techniques may include:
- High speed and broadband imaging,
- Laser-based diagnostics,
- Optical soot and volatile PM measurement methods,
- Species-specific optical detection approaches relevant to NASA research campaigns.
- Operate and maintain gaseous and complex aerosol measurement systems for high temperature and high-pressure combustion environments, ensuring accurate and reliable data acquisition. Instruments may include:
- Photoacoustic instruments,
- Gas analyzers,
- Particle sizing and counting instruments.
- Support facility readiness checks, calibration routines, and safety verifications to confirm operational integrity prior to testing.
- Conduct structured experiments to quantify particulate emissions across varied combustion conditions, fuel types, and facility operating regimes.
- Participate in partnered engine tests - Engage in multi-agency and industry partnered ground-based engine test campaigns (e.g., with OEMs and FAA) to characterize combustion technology and assess the impact.
- Produce rapid, accurate, and scientifically rigorous interpretation of experimental results.
- Documenting, reporting, and presenting results clearly and concisely.
Required Skills:- Exceptional knowledge of aerosol science, extractive particulate measurement techniques sampling from high-pressure, high-temperature environments, and combustion processes.
- Demonstrated ability to independently design and execute mechanical and electrical instrumentation projects.
- Strong analytical skills for interpreting complex datasets from multi-instrument test campaigns.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills with a record (or clear potential) for high-quality publications and presentations.
- Proven ability to integrate effectively into multi-disciplinary research teams and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
- High motivation, creativity, and problem-solving ability.
Desired Skills:- Familiarity with SAE E-31 standards for aircraft emissions sampling.
- Experience measuring soot/particulate loading and understanding impacts on radiative heat transfer and combustor durability.
- Participation in multiagency or industry-partnered measurement campaigns.
Education/Experience:Aerospace Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Mechanical Engineering degree from ABET accredited program with the following education and experience:
- Bachelor's degree and 20 years of relevant experience; or
- Master's degree and 15 years of experience; or
- Ph.D. and 10 years of experience
Other Position Requirements:- Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position.
- Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation.
HX5 offers a competitive salary and benefits package to include:
- Relocation Assistance
- Medical/Dental/Vision Insurance
- 401(k) plan with Company Match
- Paid Holidays
- Paid Time Off
- Parental Leave
- Life Insurance
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Medical and Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
- Pet Insurance
