Engineering Specialist, Simulation

Albany International Corp.; Rochester (NH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Albany International Corp. is seeking a Simulation Process Specialist to lead advanced modeling efforts predicting composite performance and optimizing manufacturing processes.

The role blends solid mechanics, heat transfer, and fluid flow with in-house tool development, aiming to streamline workflows and boost robustness. The ideal candidate brings 10+ years of numerical simulation experience in R&D or academic settings, strong programming skills, and proficiency with major CAE packages.

Qualifications

• 10+ years experience using numerical simulation tools such as FEA or CFD in R&D or academic settings.
• Strong fundamental knowledge in engineering mechanics, including solids, fluids, and heat transfer.
• Experience developing from first principles mathematical models of physical processes.
• Knowledge of mechanical behavior and structural test methods for composite materials.
• Proficiency in MS Office and excellent written and oral communication.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of advanced simulation models to predict composite performance and support design and manufacturing decisions.
• Select and implement effective solution strategies using commercial simulation tools and custom-developed computational routines.
• Apply expertise in solid mechanics, heat transfer, and fluid flow to analyze and model complex physical behaviors.
• Streamline, automate, and enhance existing modeling workflows to improve efficiency, robustness, and scalability.
• Develop, maintain, and extend in-house simulation tools and scripts through strong programming and software development skills.
• Develop experimentally validated process modeling methods such as weaving, forming, and RTM using numerical simulations.
• Work closely with simulation technology specialists, as well as design and process engineers, to develop methods, define requirements and validate implemented methods.

Skills

Composite modeling

Numerical methods

Programming

Communication

Education

MSc/PhD Mechanical Eng

Mech Eng related field

Tools

PAM-RTM

MoldFlow

StarCCM+

Fluent

Abaqus

LS-DYNA

ANSYS

NASTRAN

Job description

Job Purpose

The Simulation Process Specialist will lead advanced modeling efforts to predict composite performance and optimize components and manufacturing processes across research, development, and production activities. The role selects appropriate solution strategies by combining commercial simulation tools with custom-developed computational routines when needed. The specialist applies expertise in solid mechanics, heat transfer, and fluid flow to model different physical behaviors and support data‑driven decision making. A key focus is enhancing current modeling workflows by streamlining, automating, and improving their overall robustness and efficiency. Strong programming skills are essential, as the position involves building and refining in‑house simulation capabilities.

Job Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of advanced simulation models to predict composite performance and support design and manufacturing decisions.
• Select and implement effective solution strategies using commercial simulation tools and custom‑developed computational routines.
• Apply expertise in solid mechanics, heat transfer, and fluid flow to analyze and model complex physical behaviors.
• Streamline, automate, and enhance existing modeling workflows to improve efficiency, robustness, and scalability.
• Develop, maintain, and extend in‑house simulation tools and scripts through strong programming and software development skills.
• Develop experimentally validated process modeling methods such as weaving, forming, and Resin Transfer Molding (RTM) using numerical simulations.
• Work closely with simulation technology specialists, as well as design and process engineers, to develop methods, define requirements and validate implemented methods.

Qualifications

Education and Experience

• MSc or PhD in Mechanical Engineering or a related field (e.g., Aerospace, Civil or Applied Math); or an appropriate combination of education and relevant experience.
• 10+ years experience using numerical simulation tools such as Finite Element Analysis or Computational Fluid Dynamics in research & development or academic research settings.
• Demonstrated experience developing from first principles mathematical models of physical processes.
• Strong fundamental knowledge base in engineering mechanics, including solids, fluids, and heat transfer.
• Knowledge of mechanical behavior and structural test methods for composite materials.

Skills

• Demonstrated capability in modeling composite materials and manufacturing processes (such as weaving, braiding, RTM, ATL/AFP, forming).
• Strong knowledge of numerical methods such as Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and/or Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD).
• Experience with commercial computer aided engineering (CAE) software such as PAM‑RTM, MoldFlow, StarCCM+, Fluent, Abaqus, LS‑Dyna, ANSYS, NASTRAN, etc.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and excellent written and oral communication.

Abilities

• Demonstrated problem‑solving skills within collaborative, team‑based environments.
• Ability to assess complex technical landscapes and extract key insights and guiding principles.
• Willingness to learn new concepts, tools, and technologies.
• Willingness to engage in hands‑on work in a dynamic environment.
• Strong action orientation with a results‑driven mindset, sound decision‑making abilities, and a focus on customer success.
• High level of attention to detail and commitment to quality.

Working Conditions

Indoor production environment. Duties performed indoors with adequate lighting and comfortable temperatures. Occasional exposure to moderate noise and machinery with mechanical moving parts. Ability to work 24/7 schedule and be available as business situations require. Travel may be required.