Aerodynamic Wind Tunnel Test Engineer

Torch Technologies; Tullahoma (TN); On-site; USD 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Torch Technologies seeks a Wind Tunnel Test Engineer to support AEDC at Arnold AFB, TN. You will plan, execute, and analyze aerodynamic tests in wind tunnels, coordinating with cross-functional teams for instrumented data collection and safety compliance.

The role involves designing test setups, documenting procedures, and presenting findings to customers and leadership, with potential for security clearance.

Qualifications

• US citizenship required.
• Bachelor's degree in engineering or science.
• Experience with aerodynamic performance and testing concepts.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to present to leadership.
• Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.

Responsibilities

• Test Planning & Design: define objectives, scope and requirements for wind tunnel testing.
• Test Execution: oversee installation, calibration, and data quality during testing.
• Data Analysis & Reporting: analyze datasets and prepare comprehensive reports.
• Technical Expertise & Innovation: stay current with aerodynamic testing tech and develop new methods.
• Safety: ensure safety protocols and promote a culture of safety.

Skills

US Citizenship

Aerodynamic testing

Communication skills

Security clearance eligibility

Education

Bachelor's in engineering or science

Tools

Instrumentation troubleshooting

3D CAD

MS Excel

Python

Job description

Torch Technologies

Thank you for your interest in employment with Torch Technologies. We are a 100% employee-owned, Certified Great Place To Work and named Best Places to Work in Huntsville/Madison County, headquartered in Huntsville, AL. Our team provides superior research, development, and engineering services to the Federal Government and Department of War. As one of the nation's top 100 defense companies, the services we provide directly support the men and women who serve our country. Our corporate mission sums up the pride our employee-owners take in the work we do: "Lighting the Pathway of Freedom". And, as a Certified Evergreen ESOP, we have made the commitment to grow and sustain our company for the next 100 years! Come grow with us!

Torch Technologies is seeking highly skilled Test Engineer to support the 716th Test Squadron (716 TS) at the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC). The Wind Tunnel Test Engineer role is a critical member of the team, responsible for planning, executing, and analyzing complex aerodynamic and propulsion integration testing within AEDC's wind tunnels and associated facilities. This role involves applying engineering principles, efficient engineering tool development, and experimental techniques to gather aerodynamic data for developing weapons systems across a wide range of flight conditions. The test engineer will be responsible for all phases of testing from initial concept and design through final reporting. This position requires the ability to work 1st (0700 - 1500), 2nd (1500 - 2300) or 3rd (2300 - 0700) shift on occasions when assigned during test execution phase to support Test Squadron directed schedule throughput needs. This position is located onsite at Arnold AFB, TN.

As a Test Engineer, your duties will include the following, but are not limited to:

Test Planning & Design:

• Collaborate with customers, test managers, and a multi-disciplinary core test team to define test objectives, scope, and requirements for aerodynamic wind tunnel testing, including store separation, stability & control, inlet integration, control effectiveness, jet interaction, and heat transfer.
• Develop detailed test plans, including test matrices, instrumentation requirements, data acquisition strategies, and safety protocols.
• Interpret pre-test simulations and analyses to aid in selection of appropriate instrumentation, including strain gage balances, pressure transducers, accelerometers, and high-speed imaging systems.
• Develop and maintain detailed documentation of test setups, procedures, and results.

Test Execution:

• Oversee the installation and calibration of test articles and instrumentation within the wind tunnel.
• Monitor wind tunnel equipment during testing, ensuring data quality and adherence to safety procedures.
• Troubleshoot technical issues that arise during testing and implement corrective actions.
• Coordinate with wind tunnel operators, instrumentation technicians, and other support personnel to ensure smooth and efficient test execution.
• Ensure all testing activities comply with relevant technical go/no-go and AEDC safety policies.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Process and analyze large datasets acquired during testing using specialized software tools
• Prepare comprehensive test reports documenting test procedures, results, and conclusions.
• Present test findings to customers and stakeholders through briefings, presentations, and written reports.

Technical Expertise & Innovation:

• Maintain a strong understanding of aerodynamic theory and emerging experimental techniques.
• Stay abreast of advancements in wind tunnel testing and related fields.
• Contribute to the development of new test methodologies and capabilities within the AEDC/716th Test Squadron.

Safety:

• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures.
• Participate in safety training programs.
• Identify and mitigate potential safety hazards in the test environment.
• Promote a culture of safety within the team.

Required Qualifications:

• US Citizenship
• Bachelor's in an engineering or science discipline.
• Experience with aerodynamic performance and testing concepts.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with experience preparing detailed technical reports and presenting findings to customers and leadership.
• Possess the ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering or a related field.
• Direct test engineering experience in high speed closed loop aerodynamic wind tunnels.
• Experience with instrumentation troubleshooting.
• Proficiency with 3-D CAD modeling
• Advanced MS Excel and Python programming skills
• Has an active Secret security clearance.

Schedule:

• M-F; 8-5

Work Location:

• Onsite, AEDC Arnold AFB, Tullahoma, TN

Travel:

• 0-10%

Relocation Assistance Available:

• Yes

Position Contingent Upon Award of Contract:

• No

Benefits:

• Torch Technologies is proud to offer a stable and professional work environment, a c