Structural Dynamics Engineer (R&D Engineer 2/3)

What You Will DoThe Test Engineering Group (V-14) is responsible for system level testing that includes project initiation, experimental design and analysis, hardware design and analysis, and fabrication for small component level up to full scale integrated tests. Test activities will include collaborations with W- and Q-Divisions, the hydrodynamic test program, dynamic materials experimental programs, joint test operations with Sandia and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories, and supporting experiments performed at the Nevada National Security Site (NNSS). Projects vary widely from small weapon component and system level testing to experimental programs requiring containment/confinement system design and testing that is proven to contain detonation products and debris.We are seeking an engineer with a passion for structural dynamics to join the testing development and structural analysis (TDSA) team. Our mission is to improve dynamic analysis of weapons systems through the integration of advanced design, simulation, and testing techniques. Our small, focused team is composed of engineers with expertise in finite element simulation, data analysis, multi-input multiple-output (MIMO) test methods, and structural design. Test, modeling, simulation, and design come together into one integrated team to develop and demonstrate new capabilities in support of the weapons mission. Our ideal candidate does not need to have experience in all these areas, but must have a willingness to learn, the initiative to tackle problems independently, an enthusiasm for structural dynamics, and a desire to develop novel solutions.This position will be filled at either the R&D Engineer 2 or 3 level, depending on the skills of the selected candidate. Additional job responsibilities (outlined below) will be assigned if the candidate is hired at the higher level.R&D Engineer 2 ($106,400 - $176,000)At the R&D Engineer 2 level, you will be trained to plan and execute complex MIMO tests. You will analyze test results in near real-time to guide test execution and will frequently perform detailed post-test analyses to understand the dynamics of the test structure. You will build finite element models and update those models based on test results. In completing each task, you will be expected to contribute to a collaborative code base so that teammates can reuse and extend your work.R&D Engineer 3 ($128,000 - $215,900)In addition to what was outlined at the lower level, at the R&D Engineer 3 level you will be required to provide technical leadership in developing novel test techniques, interface with customers, and engage in strategic planning to advance LANL's capabilities.What You NeedMinimum Job Requirements:EngineeringKnowledge of structural dynamics and dynamic testing. Ability to leverage science and engineering fundamentals to develop new skills.Test-Analysis CorrelationApplication experience analyzing test data (especially multi-dimensional test data), and experience correlating models to test data.Communication and TeamworkDemonstrated, successful experience working in an integrated team environment; demonstrated ability to manage multiple tasks in an environment of shifting priorities; strong interpersonal, oral and written communication skills and ability to interact effectively with all levels of personnel and external customers.Additional Job Requirements for R&D Engineer 3:In addition to the requirements outlined above, qualification at the higher level requires:EngineeringDemonstrated expertise in structural dynamics and vibration testing / experimental modal analysis through work experience or record of publication.Technical LeadershipDemonstrated experience leading engineering teams and working with customers and other stakeholders to define testing tasks and plan deliverables.Education/Experience at lower level: Position requires a Bachelor's Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution and 4 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. Education/Experience at higher level: Position requires a Master's Degree in Engineering from an accredited institution and 6 years of related experience; or, an equivalent combination of education and experience directly related to the occupation. At this level a Ph.D. may be preferred.Desired Qualifications:Desired EducationAdvanced degrees in engineering or similar technical fields are strongly preferred.Modal AnalysisExperience with experimental modal analysis is strongly desired.Environmental TestingExperience with environmental testing activities, especially shock and vibration testing, is desired.Programming & Code DevelopmentExperience with the MATLAB and/or Python programming environments, with object-oriented programming, and with version control systems (e.g. Git) is desired.Modeling/SimulationExperience with implicit dynamics simulation in ABAQUS is desired, as is specific experience with building modal models.Instrumentation Experience specifying data acquisition equipment or instrumentation requirements is desired.DrawingsExperience reading and working with drawings is desired.U.S. Nuclear StockpileWorking knowledge of nuclear weapons and the U.S. stockpile is desired.Active Q ClearanceWork Location: The work location for this position is onsite and located in Los Alamos, NM. All work locations are at the discretion of management.Position Commitment:Regular appointment employees are required to serve a period of continuous service in their current position in order to be eligible to apply for posted jobs throughout the Laboratory. If an employee has not served the time required, they may only apply for Laboratory jobs with the documented approval of their Division Leader. The position commitment for this position is 1 year.