Aerothermal Engineer

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance Coverage

401(k) Savings Plan

Paid Time-Off (PTO)

Job summary

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions is seeking to fill a role focused on aerothermal/hypersonic material evaluations. The role involves designing testing facilities, developing instrumentation, and preparing technical reports. Candidates must have a Bachelor's degree in relevant engineering fields and proficiency in MATLAB and LabVIEW.

The position is ideal for those with strong initiative and the ability to work in a high-tech environment. Benefits include medical coverage, 401(k), and education reimbursement.

Qualifications

• Minimum of two years of experience in a related position.
• U.S. citizenship required.
• Ability to obtain and maintain security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Design and maintain aerothermal testing facilities.
• Develop instrumentation and control strategies.
• Lead technical report writing.

Skills

Proficiency in MATLAB

Proficiency in LabVIEW

Attention to detail

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Materials Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

LabVIEW

Job description

General Job Summary

This 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 Functions

• Design, commission, and maintain an aerothermal testing facility intended for rapid screening of refractory materials and thermal protection systems
• Develop instrumentation and control strategies for aerothermal facilities
• Plan and coordinate material testing in both internal and external high‑enthalpy convective facilities
• Coordinate all results with team members
• Lead technical report composition in area of expertise
• Support off‑site test execution
• Maintain knowledge and awareness of engineering discipline through familiarity with current engineering literature and state of technology in the field
• Support technical proposal composition

Other Job Functions

• Collaborate with team engineers on complex projects
• Manage personal schedule and prioritize work effectively
• Independently identify problems and apply sound engineering judgement to arrive at solutions
• Compile and analyze research results, arriving at interpretations
• Communicate results with concise, clear reporting
• Independently evaluate, select, interpret, and apply standard engineering techniques, processes, and criteria, using judgment in making adaptations and modifications to research projects
• Demonstrate the ability to learn quickly in a complex, high‑technology environment
• Perform other duties and assist other employees, as assigned

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Attention to detail – Utilize established monitoring systems, ensuring accuracy of reports through peer reviews
• Planning and organization – Systematically identify issues to be addressed and plan a course of action for self and others to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectives
• Technical expertise – Possess and apply professional/technical knowledge, skills, experience, and judgment to accomplish results, serve customers better, and contribute to the organization’s intellectual capital
• Communicate 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 communication

Education and Experience

Minimum Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship
• Ability to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense SECRET
• Bachelor’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 LabVIEW
• Laboratory or equivalent experimental experience
• Coursework or experience in gas dynamics or compressible flow

Preferred Qualifications

• Existing DOD SECRET clearance
• Demonstrated experience with technical writing
• Master’s degree in Applied Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or Materials Engineering
• Demonstrated experience in the development of aerothermal or high‑enthalpy facilities
• Knowledge of both flow control and vacuum systems

Work Environment and Physical Requirements

This 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 Demands

• Perform work utilizing a computer for extended periods of time
• Sit for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area
• Stand for extended periods of time without being able to leave the work area
• Climb ladders and stairs in performing the work
• Walk for reasonable distances in performing the work
• Occasionally lift/carry objects weighing up to 50 lbs. in performing the work
• Occasionally pull or push objects weighing up to 50 lbs. in performing the work

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Equal Opportunity & Non‑Discrimination

Kratos 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 Accommodation

If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to [e-mail] or call 858‑964‑2916.