Hypersonics Research Engineer

Job Title: Hypersonics Research Engineer

City: West Lafayette

Job Summary

The Purdue Applied Research Institute (PARI) and Purdue University have made significant strategic investments in advanced modeling, simulation, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to accelerate the development and delivery of hypersonic systems for national priorities. Through strong partnerships with government and industry leaders, PARI is uniquely positioned as a key contributor to next‑generation hypersonic innovation.

The Research Engineer will play a critical role in advancing these efforts through hands-on research and development focused on next‑generation materials, advanced manufacturing techniques, and system integration within hypersonic platforms. In this role, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex technical challenges, drive innovation, and develop cutting‑edge solutions that push the boundaries of hypersonic technology.

PARI is seeking candidates who can lead or contribute to research across multiple technical domains supporting the advancement of hypersonic vehicles. Key areas of focus include additive and advanced manufacturing of high‑temperature materials, mechanical testing, component quality assurance, and validation and verification processes. Candidates with recent, relevant experience in one or more of these areas will be well‑positioned for success, while those with cross‑disciplinary expertise may have opportunities to take on program or technical leadership roles.

At Purdue, you'll join a community where unrivaled pride and unlimited potential are more than just words—they’re the foundation of how we work and grow, together. If you're ready to help build a better world through research that matters, take the next step and join us on this path.

About Us

The Purdue Applied Research Institute (PARI) is a nonprofit entity that extends the reach and impact of Purdue University’s deep research strengths and top‑ranked academic programs in engineering, agriculture, science and technology. PARI works to improve national security, microelectronics, infrastructure solutions and to accelerate critical technologies. Through applied research and program personnel, state‑of‑the‑art facilities and infrastructure, PARI significantly enhances Purdue’s ability to translate discoveries into innovative solutions and services for mission‑oriented government, industry, NGO and foundation partners. PARI is an incubator for advanced development and transition of leading ideas and technology with potential for significant impact through large‑scale prototypes, pilots, and startups.

What We’re Looking For

Education and Experience Required:

• Bachelor's in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or related fields.
• Salary and responsibilities will be commensurate with the candidate’s experience.
• Senior research engineer positions will be considered for candidates with advanced degrees and/or substantive industrial experience.

Candidates must be able to obtain a Secret security clearance to be considered for this position. Maintaining this clearance is a continuous condition of employment. Failure to obtain or retain the required clearance may result in termination. US Citizenship is a requirement to be fully considered for this position.

Qualified Candidates Will Need: Skills Required:

• Demonstrated expertise in materials modeling, systems engineering, advanced manufacturing techniques including ceramic and metallic additive manufacturing, mechanical behavior of materials, material characterization, and/or component validation and verification.
• Strong background in CAD, finite element analysis, additive manufacturing, integrated computational materials engineering techniques and software.
• Experience in mechanical testing and characterizing materials and components using state‑of‑the‑art equipment and measurement techniques.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in cross‑functional teams.
• Able to provide technical direction in proposal writing in areas of expertise.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex technical concepts effectively.

Preferred:

• Related industrial experience.
• Experience working in a laboratory research environment.

Additional Information

• Purdue's benefits summary
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position
• A background check will be required for employment in this position. Pre‑employment checks are required for this position.
• FLSA: Exempt (Not Eligible For Overtime)
• Retirement Eligibility: Defined Contributions immediately

Who We Are

Purdue is a community built on collaboration, with global perspectives, Boilermaker pride and endless opportunity to live, learn and grow. Join us and contribute to our culture.

Career Stream

PARI Senior Professional Job Code: 20003978

Equal Opportunity Employer

Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university.