Scientist, Systems Engineering (Mission Architecture & Advanced Concepts)

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Job Title: Scientist, Systems Engineering (Mission Architecture & Advanced Concepts)

Job Code: 38770

Job Location: West Palm Beach, FL or Huntsville, AL 

Job Schedule: 9/80: Employees work 9 out of every 14 days – totaling 80 hours worked – and have every other Friday off

Job Description:

The Missile Propulsion Systems Analysis Department in West Plam Beach is seeking an experienced engineer for a full-time position to support the Advanced Concepts organization within the Hypersonics Business as a pathfinder group.

The Mission Architecture & Advanced Concepts Engineer will work with senior engineers to conduct rapid, high-fidelity advanced concept airbreathing analyses using proven process flows and methodologies. This engineer will perform integrated trajectory/vehicle/propulsion analysis and design optimization for hypersonic and high-speed airbreathing propulsion systems including Solid Fuel Ramjet (SFRJ), Liquid Fuel Ramjet (LFRJ), Dual Mode Ramjet (DMRJ), and Rotating Detonation Engine (RDE) cycles. The engineer will develop conceptual and preliminary designs, conduct trade studies of complex and innovative propulsion systems, and support Business Development and Internal Research and Development (IRAD) activities.

Essential Functions:

• 40% - Conduct advanced concept thermodynamic design and mission architecture analyses for air-breathing propulsion systems. Develop and use integrated propulsion system models including NPSS propulsion performance models, MATLAB/Simulink, ModelCenter, trajectory analysis tools (POST, Quickshot, OTIS), Python, C/C++, and FORTRAN. Perform inlet/engine/airframe matching analyses and trajectory optimization. Conduct sensitivities and Monte Carlo analyses to support concept evaluation and risk reduction. Create concepts of operation, requirements development, and initial system architectures for advanced hypersonic concepts.
• 40% - Generate advanced designs and conduct performance analyses for liquid and solid rocket propulsion concepts and air-breathing engines. Develop configuration layouts and mass properties using CAD tools (Creo/NX). Create and maintain math models of propulsion systems characterizing thermodynamic, aerodynamic, fluid dynamic and mechanical operation. Utilize CFD tools for external aerodynamics, inlet performance, and nozzle analysis. Perform aeroheating analysis and stability & control assessments. Design and analyze engine control systems and control logic for solid fueled, liquid fueled, and air-breathing engines.
• 20% - Support Business Development activities including RFI/RFP responses, white papers, and customer briefings. Prepare and deliver technical presentations to cross-functional and integrated product teams. Lead peer reviews and participate in technical proposals describing design approach, relevant heritage, risk assessment and mitigation planning. Provide mentoring and guidance to less experienced engineers. Support engineering improvement initiatives including tool development and integration, and standard work procedures.
• Willingness and ability to travel up to 10-15%.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's Degree and minimum 12 years of prior relevant experience in propulsion system design and analysis. Graduate Degree and a minimum of 10 years of prior related experience. In lieu of a degree, minimum of 16 years of prior related experience.
• Active Secret Security Clearance

Preferred Additional Skills:

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Aerospace Engineering or equivalent
• Experience with propulsion system performance analysis and preliminary design
• Experience in designing, analyzing, and validating entire air-vehicles, including development of all-up-rounds (AURs).
• Proficiency with engineering analysis tools and programming languages 
• Expertise in the development of liquid and solid rocket systems and/or air-breathing high-speed propulsion systems used in defense applications
• Proficiency in NPSS propulsion performance models, STK, ModelCenter, trajectory analysis tools (POST, Quickshot, OTIS), Python, C/C++, MATLAB/Simulink, SysML, and FORTRAN
• Working knowledge of CAD tools (Creo, NX, Pro-E) for packaging, design, and mass properties
• Experience with CFD tools (RANS CFD, Cart3D, Missile DATCOM) for aerodynamic analysis
• Experience with inlet/engine/airframe matching tools and methodologies
• Proficiency in aeroheating analysis tools (NASA MINIVER)
• Experience with FEA tools for structural analysis
• Experience with Model Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) tools and Mission Architecture tools
• Strong communication and presentation experience with cross-functional and integrated product teams
• Experience supporting Business Development activities including proposal development
• Knowledge of hypersonic propulsion cycles including SFRJ, LFRJ, DMRJ, and RDE systems

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Please be aware many of our positions require the ability to obtain a security clearance. Security clearances may only be granted to U.S. citizens. In addition, applicants who accept a conditional offer of employment may be subject to government security investigation(s) and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

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