ENGINEER - RESEARCH ENGINEER - Fluids Engineering Dept. Experimental Engineer
Southwest Research Institute
San Antonio, TX
Who We Are:
We solve complex fluids problems to help society gain access to energy and water. Mutual respect and collaboration define our culture, where the sharing of knowledge and the drive for excellence are pervasive. Safety is a top priority and is integrated in every operation.
Objectives of this Role:
- Provide engineering support for research projects on fluid systems and fluid handling equipment.
- Topics include oil and gas equipment testing, erosion testing, methane mitigation, carbon sequestration, and alternative energy.
- Design, build, and operate experimental testing programs that create field-realistic process flow conditions (pressure, temperature, fluids) in controlled test environments.
- Lead experimental research projects in a laboratory setting.
- Develop innovative solutions for commercial and government clients on the world’s challenges in the energy-water nexus.
Daily and Monthly Responsibilities:
- Conduct experimental laboratory research for complex fluid flow systems at existing facilities (Erosion Flow Test Facilities, Multiphase Flow Facility) and other specialized temporary test setups.
- Implement data acquisition and control systems, select and install various instruments, operate test facilities, and perform tasks confidently under customer observation.
- Manage research projects and document findings. Post-process test data; and present reports and technical papers; manage the technical and financial performance of projects.
- Learn and apply new skills in a fast-paced research environment led by pursuit of industry’s most pressing engineering challenges.
- Interact and engage with commercial and government clients to develop solutions that fit their requirements, attend conferences, create promotional material, bid new projects, and write proposals.
Requirements:
- Requires a Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, or directly related degree field.
- 0 years: Understanding and knowledge in one of these fields: Oil and gas industry, greenhouse gas mitigation, carbon sequestration, alternative energy, water management (harvesting, reuse, or desalination), or similar energy related field.
- Hands-on experience with experimental methods (e.g., lab testing, data acquisition) or facility operation in an engineering context.
- Must possess strong interpersonal and team skills and the ability to effectively communicate complex information.
- Must have the willingness and ability to learn new technical skills and have the ability to balance multiple tasks and prioritize work.
- Experience with one or more of the following: LabVIEW programming or similar data acquisition and controls experience, modeling in SolidWorks/Creo/Ansys/Fluent, or programming using Excel VBA/MathCAD/Matlab/Python is required.
- A valid/clear driver's license is required.
About the Company
Southwest Research Institute
We are R&D problem solvers providing independent, premier services to government and industry clients. Our multidisciplinary nature allows us to rapidly assemble diverse teams to tackle problems from multiple directions. We push the boundaries of science and technology to develop innovative solutions that advance the state of the art and improve human health and safety. Operating as a nonprofit since our 1947 inception, we work in the public’s best interest and toward the betterment of mankind. At SwRI, we tirelessly pursue innovation and excellence in science and technology for the betterment of humankind. We support work on nearly 4,000 client projects at any given time through a wide range of technical competencies with 2,574 staff members in nine technical divisions. Client services include, but are not limited to, Automotive and Transportation, Biomedical & Health, Chemistry & Materials, Computers and Electronics, Defense & Security, Earth & Space, Energy & Environment, and Manufacturing & Construction.
TECHNICAL DIVISIONS
- Applied Physics-Developing advanced electronic and microelectronic devices, power supplies, voice and data communication systems, robot test services, and payloads
- Applied Power-Using physical science research and applied engineering to produce sensors, instruments, and hardware used worldwide.
- Center for Nuclear Waste Regulatory Analyses-Resolving technical and regulatory issues related to a potential geologic repository for spent nuclear fule and high-level radioactive waste.
- Chemistry and Chemical Engineering-Performing research and technical services using chemistry and chemical engineering technology.
- Defense and & Intelligence Solutions-Providing advanced direction finding and tracking systems through geolocation system development.
- Fuels and Lubricants Research-Performing fuels and lubricants research activities to meet regulatory and competitive goals.
- Intelligent Systems-Providing engineering services in resaerch and development of complex systems and equipment.
- Mechanical Engineering-Improving safety, reliability, efficiency and life of new or existing mechanical components or systems.
- Powertrain Engineering-Designing and developing vehicle and engine components to achieve performance and emissions goals.
- Space Science & Engineering-Developing and managing advanced scientific payloads aboard satellites and sounding rockets.
PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE
Innovation in science and technology has been a hallmark of Southwest Research Institute since its earliest days. It's no exaggeration to say we are committed to advancing science and applying technology to benefit government, industry, and all humankind. That is our mission. Our multidisciplinary, collaborative approach allows us to successfully solve clients' most challenging problems. Today, we are a leader among independent, nonprofit research and development organizations. Our staff of 2,574 scientists, engineers, analysts, and support staff members continues to accomplish outstanding fundamental and applied engineering and research for clients from diverse segments of government and industry. Adam L. Hamilton, P.E, President and CEO