We are seeking a visionary thought leader in computational mechanics to set the strategy in driving our client’s methods development (simulation and modeling) group to become a leader in this domain. In this role, the successful candidate will expand on (or add to) already established computational models to simulate physical processes, and develop new computational tools to maintain competitive technological advantage in the industry. The successful candidate needs to establish strong technical leadership and help build out the computational methods team over the next few years.

The role of Specialist – Methods Development is responsible for identifying the physical principles of a process, abstracting a representative mathematical model, implementing a custom numerical solution or identifying a commercial equivalent and validating the model with experimental data. Resulting models will be applied to drive innovation in key technology areas, including: advanced 3D weaving, resin transfer molding, pultrusion, filament winding and other processes related to polymer- and ceramic- matrix composites. The applied research areas within scope include mechanics of solids, heat transfer, and fluid flow with chemical reactions and porous media. Our ideal candidate will bring to the table experience developing creative methodologies (directly or through a team) and implementing them into processes and products.

This role includes a competitive salary, short and long term incentive compensation plans (both plans have exceeded the financial targets 6 out of the past 7 years), profit sharing and excellent benefits including some unique components such as unlimited PTO and flexible schedules.

Our client designs and manufactures highly engineered composite products for jet engines and airframe applications, for both commercial and defense platforms.  They occupy a leading position in the composite industry, specifically 3D woven composites, with a broad array of manufacturing technologies available to ensure the most cost-effective solutions for their customers.  They achieve the solutions by driving all aspects of the product life cycle from design and process simulation to prototype development and industrialization of the full rate manufacturing process.  They have strong relationships with key OEM customers including Safran, Airbus, Boeing, GE aviation, Lockheed Martin, Rolls-Royce, Northrop Grumman, and Sikorsky.

• Lead projects that deliver models of processes, material behavior or component optimization in a timely manner to support research, development and production activities.
• Identify appropriate solution strategies, making use of commercial codes when possible and developing user defined or custom routines when necessary.
• Clearly document principles and methods.
• Develop materials to teach principles and methods to engineers at various levels within the company.
• Leverage fundamental understanding to identify strategic opportunities and intellectual property.
• Present developments at industrial or academic conferences, when appropriate.
• Work with other engineers to implement developed methods into practical tools for engineering staff.
• Provide direction and oversight of engineers and technicians, as required, to meet project objectives.

Please Note: Due to the restricted nature of work, only US Citizens and US Persons (permanent residents) will be considered for this role. Our client does not sponsor employment visas  (e.g. H-1B visa status).

• • PhD in Mechanical Engineering or related field (e.g. Aerospace, Civil, Applied Math, Physics) is required. MS degree may be considered if work history exceeds expectations.

• Demonstrated experience developing mathematical models of physical processes from first principles.
• Demonstrated experience in developing and/or using numerical methods.
• Strong fundamental knowledge base in engineering mechanics, including solids, fluids, and heat transfer.
• Knowledge of mechanical behavior and structural test methods for composite materials.
• Recognition of key physical principles in an industrial process.
• Excellent written and oral communication; coaching, mentoring, and/or teaching experience considered a plus.
• Ability to design, conduct and analyze experiments to validate mathematical models
• Ability to work independently.
• Ability to map solutions from one domain to another.
• Proven ability to master underlying principles of novel technologies.
• Proven problem-solving skills applied in a teamwork setting.
• Ability to perform “hands-on” work in a dynamic work environment.