Rotordynamics Development & Testing Engineer

BWX Technologies, Inc.; Oak Ridge (TN); On-site; USD 86,000 - 136,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary and benefits

Flexible work schedules

Professional development

Inclusive atmosphere

Mission-driven

Continuous learning

Job summary

BWX Technologies, Inc. in Oak Ridge, TN seeks a Rotordynamics Development and Testing Engineer to advance centrifuge manufacturing precision.

You will lead rotordynamics analysis, dynamic testing, DSP-based signal processing, and software tools in Python, C++, and MATLAB to improve design and production. The role requires a BS in Mechanical Engineering with 6 years of experience (or higher degrees with related experience) and US citizenship with DOE Q clearance eligibility.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering with experience, or advanced degrees with related experience.
• Expertise in rotordynamics, dynamic testing, DSP, and FEA with Python/C++/MATLAB.
• US citizenship with ability to obtain DOE Q clearance.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the resident rotordynamics expert to optimize centrifuge manufacturing and design.
• Conduct experiments and model-based simulations to ensure robust designs.
• Design and guide advanced test systems with data acquisition and DSP architectures.
• Lead dynamic testing for system balancing and modal analysis.
• Execute complex engineering projects and communicate results clearly.
• Prepare detailed engineering reports for stakeholders.

Skills

Rotordynamics

Dynamic testing

DSP methods

Python

C++

MATLAB

FEA/ANSYS

Education

Bachelor's in Mechanical Engineering

Master's in Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

Job description

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Date: Aug 21, 2026

Location: Oak Ridge, TN, US

Company: BWXT

At BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT), we are People Strong, Innovation Driven. A U.S.-based company, BWXT is a Fortune 1000 and Defense News Top 100 manufacturing and engineering innovator that provides safe and effective nuclear solutions for global security, clean energy, environmental restoration, nuclear medicine and space exploration. With more than 7,800 employees, BWXT has 14 major operating sites in the U.S., Canada and the U.K. We are the sole manufacturer of naval nuclear reactors for U.S. submarines and aircraft carriers. Our company supplies precision manufactured components, services and fuel for the commercial nuclear power industry across four continents. Our joint ventures provide environmental restoration and operations management at a dozen U.S. Department of Energy and NASA facilities. BWXT’s technology is driving advances in medical radioisotope production in North America and microreactors for various defense and space applications. For more information, visit www.bwxt.com . Follow us on LinkedIn , X , Facebook and Instagram .

Welcome to BWXT

We believe in empowering our employees and cultivating a dynamic workplace that fosters growth and collaboration. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting your career, you'll find opportunities to challenge yourself, learn from seasoned experts, and contribute to nuclear innovation. We require a diverse range of skills to support our work in the markets that drive our business and welcome candidates from all backgrounds and life stages who are passionate about making a difference.

Position Overview:

The Rotordynamics Development and Testing Engineer will spearhead engineering process innovation and rigorous testing activities to support the manufacturing of gas centrifuges for UF6 enrichment. This role demands a proven background in rotordynamics and dynamic testing, coupled with expertise in signal processing and software development. The ideal candidate will adeptly follow established engineering protocols while driving new methodologies for enhanced centrifuge design and production.

Your day to day as a Rotordynamics Development and Testing Engineer:

• Serve as the resident expert on rotordynamics, leveraging current methodologies and developing avant-garde techniques to optimize centrifuge manufacturing and design processes.
• Champion both experimental investigations and model-based simulations to resolve complex rotordynamics challenges, ensuring design robustness and operational efficiency.
• Architect and guide the construction of advanced test systems, encompassing state-of-the-art data acquisition, digital signal processing architectures, and high-speed signal analysis to capture critical performance metrics.
• Lead initiatives in dynamic testing for system balancing, utilizing a spectrum of techniques — from traditional influence coefficient methods to comprehensive experimental modal analysis and innovative hybrid approaches.
• Independently execute sophisticated engineering projects, making informed decisions that reflect a deep understanding of underlying principles and industry best practices.
• Prepare, document, and present both routine and in-depth engineering reports, ensuring clear communication of testing protocols, results, and recommendations to key stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering with 6 years of relevant experience, or a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering with 3 years of targeted industry experience, or a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Mechanical Engineering.
• Demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:
  • Rotordynamics and associated problem-solving techniques
  • Dynamic testing methodologies in high-speed systems
  • Advanced digital signal processing (DSP) methods
  • Software development using languages and tools such as Python, C++, MATLAB, etc.
  • Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using platforms like ANSYS
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Department of Energy ‘Q’ clearance.
• Must be a U.S. citizen.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Advanced degrees (Master of Science or higher) in Mechanical Engineering are highly desirable.
• Candidates with extensive hands‑on experience in the field and a proven track record of leading complex engineering projects will be favored.
• Possession of an active DOE Q Clearance is an added advantage.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits package, including health, dental, and retirement plans.
• Flexible work schedules and paidtime off to promote a healthy work‑life balance.
• Professional development opportunities, including mentorship programs and sponsorship for continuing education.
• An inclusive atmosphere that celebrates new perspectives and supports collaboration between different generations.
• The chance to be part of a mission‑driven organization making a positive impact on the future of energy.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and training to grow throughout your career!

Pay: $86,450- $136,000

The base salary range for this position in Tennessee (US-TN) at the start of employment is expected to be between $86,450 and $136,000 per year. However, the base salary offered is based on local job market factors, and may vary further depending on factors specific to the selected job candidate, such as job-related knowledge, skills, experience, and other objective business considerations. Subject to these considerations, the total compensation package for this position may also include other elements, such as an annual cash incentive in addition to a full range of medical, retirement, and/or other benefits. Details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided at such time the selected job candidate receives an offer of employment. If hired, the selected job candidate will be employed 'at-will,’ unless employed at a location and in a position subject to a collective bargaining agreement. The company further reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment, compensation or benefit program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, company or individual department/team performance, and other market factors.

As a federal government contractor, BWX Technologies, Inc. and any subsidiaries, affiliates and related entities (“BWXT” or the “Company”) complies with all federal, state, and local laws and customer requirements regarding health and safety protocols. As such, all BWXT new hires will be required to adhere to applicable Company health and safety requirements within the workplace as a condition of employment.

All candidates must be U.S. citizens. Selected applicants are required to successfully complete a pre‑employment check and drug screening. In addition, the position may require the ability to obtain and maintain applicable federal eligibility requirements for access to classified/sensitive information or matter which involves an extensive criminal and financial background investigation, drug test, previous employment, and reference verifications.

BWXT is committed to the concept of Equal Employment Opportunity. We have established procedures to ensure that all personnel actions such as recruitment, compensation, career development, benefits, company-sponsored training and social recreational programs are administered without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, age, disability, protected veteran or other protected status.