Senior Rotordynamics Engineer

Astro Mechanica

$120K — $150K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • 5+ years in turbomachinery design focusing on rotordynamic analysis and mechanical packaging.
  • Hands-on experience with rotordynamic modelling tools (e.g., DyRoBes).
  • Familiarity with CFD and geometry development using tools like StarCCM+ and AxStream.
  • Proven experience with test instrumentation and mechanical validation data reduction.
  • Knowledge of propulsion cycle tools (GasTurb, NPSS) and their impact on performance.
  • CAD proficiency in Siemens NX for assembly designs.
  • Experience in scripting (Python, MATLAB) for automation.

Responsibilities

  • Lead rotordynamic analysis for turbomachinery, focusing on critical speed and stability.
  • Select bearings, define preload, and conduct trade studies on stiffness and damping.
  • Design and execute rotordynamic validation test campaigns.
  • Develop computational models considering rotordynamic constraints using StarCCM+ and AxSTREAM.
  • Utilize propulsion cycle models to analyze compressor dynamics under load.
  • Define GD&T for rotating assemblies with tolerance analysis implications.
  • Collaborate with manufacturing for high-precision component production.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, plus FSAs.
  • 401(k) and transparent stock option plan.
  • Self-managed flexible time-off policy, including PTO and sick leave.
  • Flexible work environment.
Full Job Description
WHO YOU ARE:

Astro Mechanica is looking for a Senior Rotordynamics Engineer with the knowledge and skill to refine the development of our terrestrial and aviation turbomachinery through your understanding of the detailed physical processes that happen within them. Your experience may be rooted in ground-power, aviation, or space-based applications. You understand the physical behavior of rotating systems as deeply on paper as you do at the test stand, and you've built the analytical models to prove it.

WHAT YOU'LL DO:
  • Lead rotordynamic analysis of turbomachinery systems, including critical speed prediction, stability margins, imbalance response, torsional analysis, modal analysis, and Campbell diagram development
  • Bearing selection, preload definition, stiffness and damping trade studies, thermal management and lubrication system
  • Define and execute test campaigns instrumented specifically for rotordynamic validation
  • Develop and iterate computational models (StarCCM+, AxSTREAM) with rotordynamic constraints in mind
  • Utilize propulsion cycle models (GasTurb, NPSS) to assess how compressor maps and mechanical behavior interact under dynamic loading conditions
  • Define GD&T for rotating assemblies through tolerance analysis, considering the effects on rotor balance, seal clearances, and dynamic behavior
  • Partner with manufacturing to ensure production of high-precision rotating components with balance grades, runout tolerances, and assembly sequence in mind


WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR:
  • 5+ years in turbomachinery design with demonstrated rotordynamic analysis and mechanical packaging ownership on real hardware
  • Hands-on experience with rotordynamic modelling tools (DyRoBes or equivalent)
  • Experience with blade and compressor geometry development using CFD, streamline curvature, and 1D meanline methods (StarCCM+, AxStream)
  • Experience with test instrumentation and data reduction specifically for mechanical validation (vibration, whirl, and rotor response)
  • Experience with propulsion cycle tools (GasTurb, NPSS) and how compressor mechanical behavior couples to cycle performance
  • Proficient in CAD for rotating assemblies (Siemens NX) and multiphysics analysis
  • Experience with scripting for analysis automation and post-processing (Python, MATLAB)
  • Effective communicator capable of leading cross-functional design reviews and contributing to system architecture discussions


PERKS & BENEFITS:
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
  • 401(k) program and transparent stock option plan
  • Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time
  • Flexible work environment
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.

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