Aerothermal Engineer

General Job SummaryThis position works as part of a team supporting several aerothermal/hypersonic material evaluation programs within the Department of Defense and NASA. Candidates with interest and expertise in the development of aerothermal screening facilities (arc jets, ICPs, microwave torches), convective heat transfer, or aerothermodynamics should apply. The candidate must be proficient in MATLAB and Labview and exhibit strong initiative and independence with demonstrated competency executing projects. An active DoD SECRET security clearance is a plus.Essential Job FunctionsDesign, commission, and maintain an aerothermal testing facility intended for rapid screening of refractory materials and thermal protection systemsDevelop instrumentation and control strategies for aerothermal facilitiesPlan and coordinate material testing in both internal and external high‑enthalpy convective facilitiesCoordinate all results with team membersLead technical report composition in area of expertiseSupport off‑site test executionMaintain knowledge and awareness of engineering discipline through familiarity with current engineering literature and state of technology in the fieldSupport technical proposal compositionOther Job FunctionsCollaborate with team engineers on complex projectsManage personal schedule and prioritize work effectivelyIndependently identify problems and apply sound engineering judgement to arrive at solutionsCompile and analyze research results, arriving at interpretationsCommunicate results with concise, clear reportingIndependently evaluate, select, interpret, and apply standard engineering techniques, processes, and criteria, using judgment in making adaptations and modifications to research projectsDemonstrate the ability to learn quickly in a complex, high‑technology environmentPerform other duties and assist other employees, as assignedKnowledge, Skills, and AbilitiesAttention to detail – Utilize established monitoring systems, ensuring accuracy of reports through peer reviewsPlanning and organization – Systematically identify issues to be addressed and plan a course of action for self and others to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectivesTechnical expertise – Possess and apply professional/technical knowledge, skills, experience, and judgment to accomplish results, serve customers better, and contribute to the organization's intellectual capitalCommunicate with impact – Express thoughts and ideas effectively in individual and group situations; adjust language to the needs of the audience; ideas are clearly defined in grammatically correct written communicationEducation and ExperienceMinimum QualificationsU.S. citizenshipAbility to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense SECRETBachelor's degree in Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Materials Engineering with a minimum of two years experience (other related programs will be considered)Proficiency in MATLAB/Python and LabVIEWLaboratory or equivalent experimental experienceCoursework or experience in gas dynamics or compressible flowPreferred QualificationsExisting DOD SECRET clearanceDemonstrated experience with technical writingMaster's degree in Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Materials EngineeringDemonstrated experience in the development of aerothermal or high‑enthalpy facilitiesKnowledge of both flow control and vacuum systemsWork Environment and Physical RequirementsThis position involves work in an office and laboratory environment and could require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, hearing protection (varies based on tasks), and protective shoes.Physical DemandsPerform work utilizing a computer for extended periods of timeSit for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work areaStand for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work areaClimb ladders and stairs in performing the workWalk for reasonable distances in performing the workOccasionally lift/carry objects weighing up to 50 lbs. in performing the workOccasionally pull or push objects weighing up to 50 lbs. in performing the workJob BenefitsMedical, Dental and Vision Insurance CoverageLife/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance401(k) Savings PlanEmployee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)Paid Time-Off (PTO)HolidaysEducation ReimbursementEqual Opportunity & Non‑DiscriminationKratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity, affirmative action employer. EOE, minorities, females, veterans, disabled, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.Disability Accessibility AccommodationIf you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to HRAccessibility@kratosdefense.com or call 858‑964‑2916.#J-18808-Ljbffr