RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Additive Manufacturing Engineer - Southwest Research Institute

RESEARCH ENGINEER - SR. RESEARCH ENGINEER - Additive Manufacturing Engineer

Who We Are:

The Mechanics & Materials team in the Materials Engineering department performs advanced materials research to solve our clients’ most challenging technical problems related to aerospace and manufacturing applications. This position will support senior staff members and ongoing programs to further understand process-to-performance of additively manufactured (AM) metallic materials. The position is hands-on and will focus on the fabrication of parts and components using laser powder bed fusion machines.

Objectives of this Role:

• Utilize advanced computer aided drafting software to develop best practices for AM component fabrication.
• Perform end-to-end engineering support for performing successful AM builds including process design and optimization and post-build processing such as HIP, stress relief, and heat treatment.
• Complete post-build component inspections using various tools such as computed tomography.
• Conduct material characterization and testing of AM parts and components to further understand effects of fabrication processes on the mechanical performance of the AM materials.
• Understand customer requirements and develop technical solutions within budgetary and schedule constraints.

Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:

• Executing hands-on AM builds using advanced and state of the art laser powder bed fusion machines.
• Collaborating with senior staff and peers to promote, develop, and propose research programs in the area of AM materials to meet external client needs.
• Cultivating and maintaining internal and external relationships through collaboration and multidisciplinary teams to support more complete technical solutions to a wide array of client problems.
• Presenting research findings at conferences and client meetings.

Requirements:

• Requires a Bachelors, Masters or a PhD in Engineering Mechanics (as an Engineering degree), Materials Science and Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related engineering degree.
• Graduate degrees will be considered in lieu of some years of experience.
• 2-5 years: Strong background in AM metallic materials, AM build processes and optimization, and mechanical behavior, and a demonstrated understanding of the relationships between AM processes and mechanical performance of the materials.
• 2-5 years: Hands-on laboratory experience with laser powder bed fusion machines. Experience using computer software to design parts for AM.
• 2-5 years: Demonstrated ability to build AM parts and components and perform post-build characterizations and mechanical testing.
• 2-5 years: Must possess strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate complex information to non-experts internally and externally.
• A valid/clear driver's license is required.