University of Dayton

Principal Mechanical Research Engineer

University of Dayton • $100K — $130K *
Dayton, OH 45424In-Person
Aerospace & Defense
8 - 10 years of experience
Today
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Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
  • 10 years of directly related experience.
  • Familiarity with setup, operation, and maintenance of PDV systems.
  • Experience investigating materials properties under extreme conditions.
  • Experience operating powder and gas guns.
  • Effective verbal and written communication skills.
  • U.S. citizenship required due to federal contract obligations.

Responsibilities

  • Utilize PDV measurement techniques to obtain material properties and surface velocities post-impact.
  • Market PDV measurement techniques to attract new customers and expand capabilities.
  • Support erosion research efforts at AFRL.
  • Assist with Hypervelocity Impact testing using light-gas guns.
  • Conduct high-strain rate testing and bird-strike/FOD testing.
  • Design and execute experiments to study material properties under impact.
  • Collaborate with team members on various research projects.

Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance options.
  • Retirement savings plan with employer match.
  • Generous paid time off and holiday leave.
  • Professional development and training opportunities.
  • Flexible work environment with opportunities for remote work.
Full Job Description
Principal Mechanical Research Engineer

Job No: 503666
Work Type: Staff Full Time (1500 hours or greater)
Location: Dayton, OH
Category: Research Institute Staff
Department: Impact Physics - 250534
Pay Grade: R4 - Exempt
Advertised: June 24, 2026
Applications close: July 07, 2026

Position Summary:
Seeking candidate that is well versed in Shock Physics, Laser Metrology, Materials Physics, and materials behavior under impact. Candidate must be able to utilize Photon Doppler Velocimetry (PDV) measurement techniques to obtain material properties and surface velocities post-impact. Candidate will market their PDV measurement techniques to gain new customers and expand Impact Physics Group capabilities. This candidate would also support erosion research efforts at AFRL. Secondary roles would include providing support with Hypervelocity Impact testing using two and three-stage light-gas guns, high-strain rate testing and bird-strike/FOD testing.

Minimum Qualifications:
• PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 10 years of directly related experience.
• Familiarity with the setup, operation and maintenance of PDV systems.
• Experience with investigating materials properties under extreme conditions - high strain rate or temperature and/or radiation.
• Experience with operating powder and gas guns.
• Effective verbal and written communication skills.
• Due to the requirements of our research contracts with the U.S. federal government, candidates for this position must be a U.S. citizen.

Preferred Qualifications:
While not everyone may possess all of the preferred qualifications, the ideal candidate will bring many of the following:
• Experience in nuclear survivability testing.
• Experience in the design and execution of experiments to study Equation of State.
• Experience with experimental techniques to measure dynamic yield strength and spall strength.
• Understanding of material properties for advanced composites, thermally sprayed materials, and additively manufactured materials.
• Mechanical testing across range of strain-rates.
• Knowledge of materials and testing methods used for hypersonics.
• Understanding of radiation-material interaction, including lasers and x-rays.

Special Instructions to Applicants:
To apply please submit a cover letter addressing each minimum qualification and any applicable preferred qualifications that you meet.

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About University of Dayton

The University of Dayton is a private Catholic research university located in Dayton, Ohio. The university was founded in 1850 by the Society of Mary and has a long history of academic excellence and community engagement. The University of Dayton offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a wide range of fields, including business, engineering, education, and the arts. The university is committed to providing a high-quality education that prepares students for successful careers and meaningful lives. The University of Dayton is also known for its commitment to sustainability and social justice, and has been recognized as one of the greenest universities in the country.
Learn more about University of Dayton
Size
5,000 employees
Industry
Education, Government & Non-Profit
* Ladders Estimates

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