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POSITION SPECIFICS​

We are searching for a Fluids Machinery Engineer to join our Fluids Machinery Department at the Applied Research Laboratory (ARL) at Penn State University. The Department is part of the Fluid Dynamics Division within the Fluid Dynamics and Acoustics Office, which has a long, successful history of providing innovative solutions and technology for a range of U.S. Government and Industry sponsors.

In this position, you will support the design and analysis of marine vehicle hydrodynamics, control effector design, flight controls and maneuvering, as well as supporting experimental fluids testing in a laboratory or field environment. Marine vehicle hydrodynamics focus on a detailed understanding of fluid generated forces (lift and drag) from various parts of a vehicle and how they interact. Flight controls and maneuvering focus on how pilots and autopilot algorithms use understanding of these fluid generated forces to control the kinematics (i.e. motion) of a vehicle in time and space. Experimental fluids testing involves observation and measurement of forces, moments, and flow interacting with a test article in a laboratory environment (wind tunnel or water tunnel) or with a prototype operating in the field.

You will:

• Contribute to the design, assembly, and operation of complex test articles and experiments at ARL water tunnel facilities, government test facilities, and field sites

• Perform design and analysis of vehicle control concepts, flight dynamics, and external hydrodynamics or aerodynamics at the component, subsystem and/or full vehicle system level

• Provide subject matter expertise in the areas of fluid dynamics as part of multidisciplinary teams on well-defined questions and problems

• Perform hands-on work in the preparation and execution of fluid dynamic experiments

• Act as part of a team to acquire, analyze, and present technical results

• Interact collaboratively with other engineers, researchers, and academic faculty

Additional responsibilities for a higher level position includes:

• Lead the design, assembly, and operation of complex test articles and experiments at ARL water tunnel facilities, government test facilities, and field sites

• Perform design and analysis of vehicle control concepts, flight dynamics, and external hydrodynamics or aerodynamics at the subsystem or system level

• Provide subject matter expertise in the areas of fluid dynamics as part of multidisciplinary teams on ill-defined questions and problems

• Manage projects of small or moderate size and scope; make substantial contributions to determining feasibility of project goals and objectives

• Collaboratively develop, write, and submit proposals for funded research

• Author/co-author reports, presentations, and papers and present to technical employees

• Maintain existing and cultivate new external research relationships

Required skills/experience areas include:

• A BS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

• Strong background in aerodynamics or fluid mechanics

• Experience with flight dynamics and controls beyond undergraduate coursework (to include relevant work experience)

• Success in an environment where various forms of communication and organizational skills were crucial to be effective

• Effective at presenting in front of professionals, conveying information to drive to action or decision

• Previous success with collaborations in a diverse, multi-disciplinary, team-oriented culture

Preferred skills/experience areas include:

• A Master’s degree or Ph.D.

• Design and execution of experiments using wind or water tunnels

• Demonstrated expertise with vehicle flight dynamics and controls involving design, analysis, or testing

• Familiarity with solid modeling/CAD systems, MATLAB, or Simulink

• Active government security clearance

Your working location will be project-dependent ability for hybrid work, located in State College, PA. Questions related to flexible work should be directed to the hiring manager during the interview process This position will require some off-site travel and extended off-site work.

MINIMUM EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE & REQUIRED CERTIFICATIONS

ARL’s purpose is to research and develop innovative solutions to challenging scientific, engineering, and technology problems in support of the Navy, the Department of Defense (DoD), and the Intel Community (IC). 

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION on ARL, visit our web site at www.arl.psu.edu.

BACKGROUND CHECKS/CLEARANCES

SALARY & BENEFITS

Salary Structure - Information on Penn State's salary structure

Penn State provides a competitive benefits package for full-time employees designed to support both personal and professional well-being. In addition to comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, employees enjoy robust retirement plans and substantial paid time off which includes holidays, vacation and sick time. One of the standout benefits is the generous 75% tuition discount, available to employees as well as eligible spouses and children. For more detailed information, please visit our Benefits Page.