Structural Dynamics Test Engineer

AWE; Reading; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An advanced engineering firm in Aldermaston is seeking Engineers to join their Structural Dynamics Team. Responsibilities include conducting dynamic tests, simulating structural behaviors using Finite Element Analysis, and collaborating with stakeholders to address engineering challenges. The ideal candidate will hold a relevant degree or equivalent practical experience, possess strong mathematical knowledge, and have experience with CAD and FE software. This role offers competitive salary and comprehensive benefits including flexible working arrangements and a contributory pension scheme.

Benefits

270 hours of annual leave

9-day working fortnight

Flexible working arrangements

Family friendly policies

Professional career development opportunities

Employee Assistance Programme

Market leading pension scheme

Life Assurance

Benefits on everyday spending

Special Leave Policy

Qualifications

• Degree qualification in engineering or relevant technical experience.
• Good grasp of mathematical and engineering concepts.
• Experience using modern CAD and FE analysis software.

Responsibilities

• Conduct dynamic testing and Finite Element analyses.
• Simulate environments and predict stresses on structures.
• Collaborate with multiple stakeholders on projects.

Skills

Engineering principles understanding

Team collaboration

Experience with CAD software

Experience with FE analysis software

Dynamic testing knowledge

Education

Degree in engineering or HND with experience

Tools

Computer Aided Design (CAD)

Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Job description

Location: Aldermaston, West Berkshire. We are located between Basingstoke and Reading.

Salary: £35,720 - £50,000 (dependent on experience, qualifications and suitability). A relocation package may be available (terms and conditions apply).

Closing date: 10th July 2024

AWE is looking for Engineers to work in the field of Structural Dynamics.

The Structural Dynamics Team help underwrite the performance and safety of AWE's structures (particularly the warhead) through a combination of dynamic testing and computer simulation.

Testing activities include modal testing to determine resonances of a structure, conducting Trident trials, carrying out rapid dynamic investigations for the stockpile and developing future ground-based certification methods.

State-of-the-art Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is a major strength of the Structural Dynamics Team. Environments of the Stockpile-to-Target Sequence (STS) are simulated to predict the stresses, strains and displacements of AWE structures.

Working within the Structural Dynamics Team at AWE Aldermaston within the Warhead Engineering community, candidates are expected to become proficient at both dynamic testing and Finite Element analysis to solve real-world problems for internal and external customers.

Who Are We Looking For?

• A degree qualification in engineering (or an HND in engineering supported by extensive practical experience) or relevant technical experience
• A good grasp of mathematical and engineering concepts
• Experience in use of modern Computer Aided Design (CAD) software
• Experience of using modern Finite Element (FE) analysis software
• Appreciation of dynamic testing, such as modal testing and vibration testing
• An ability to work as part of a team and with multiple stakeholders

Desirable knowledge and experience for these roles are:

• Experience of FE model validation and updating
• Understanding of data acquisition and signal processing

What Will You Get From Us?

As part of our People Promise, AWE (one of the best 25 big companies to work for in the UK) has a range of benefits to suit you. These include:

• Time to recharge your batteries with 270 hours of annual leave (including Bank Holidays).
• 9-day working fortnight - every other Friday off work.
• Consideration for flexible working arrangements so that your work may fit in with your lifestyle. Just let us know on your application if you wish to work part time.
• Family friendly policies: Maternity Leave - 39 Weeks Full Pay and Paternity Leave - 4 Weeks Full Pay.
• Opportunities for Professional Career Development that include funding for the annual membership of a relevant professional body, access to mentors and training.
• Employee Assistance Programme and Occupational Health Services.
• A market leading contributory pension scheme (we will pay between 9% and 13% of your pensionable pay depending on your own contribution).
• Life Assurance.
• Discounts - access to savings on a wide range of everyday spending savings.
• Special Leave Policy including paid time off for volunteering, public service (including reserve forces) and caring for your family.
• A host of voluntary & core benefits to suit your health and wellbeing - more information available on our careers site.

Important things you need to know:

• You must be a British citizen who has been resident in the UK for the past 10 years.
• Interviews will be 90 minutes in length and will be held over Microsoft Teams. You will be required to prepare a 10-minute presentation in advance.
• Candidates must be willing and able to obtain and maintain the necessary security clearance for the role. This will be funded by AWE.