Senior Mechanical Simulation Engineer

LiquidPiston, Inc.; Suffield (CT); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible PTO

Health & Wellness

Equity (RSUs)

401(k) Match

Career Growth

Job summary

LiquidPiston, Inc. is seeking a Senior Mechanical Simulation Engineer for a fully onsite role in Bloomfield, CT (relocating to Suffield, CT later in 2026).

You will lead the design, development, and validation of rotary engine sealing systems and related components, applying tribology, materials science, and dynamic simulation to optimize performance under demanding conditions. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in ICE component design, strong analytical skills, and a track record in R&D projects.

Qualifications

• Requires Mechanical Engineering degree with 5+ years in ICE power cylinder components
• Experience with design, development and validation of engine components
• Proficiency in advanced simulation tools (e.g., Ansys) and scripting languages

Responsibilities

• Lead rotary engine sealing system design and refinement (Apex Seals and Face Seals)
• Contribute to journal bearing design including loads, clearances, oil flow
• Apply tribology to minimize friction and wear on seals and housing surfaces
• Develop 1D/3D dynamic models to analyze seal motion and leakage
• Specify materials for high-temperature, high-pressure conditions and work with manufacturing
• Perform FEA to assess thermal distortion and mechanical stress on seals and structures
• Design, execute, and analyze engine test plans focusing on durability and friction
• Troubleshoot sealing-related engine performance issues identified during testing

Skills

Tribology knowledge

High-temperature materials

Independent work

Dynamic simulation

Problem solving

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree preferred

Tools

Ansys

MATLAB

Python

C++

Job description

This role is fully onsite in Bloomfield, CT, five days per week, and the company will be relocating to Suffield, CT later in 2026.

About LiquidPiston

At LiquidPiston, we’re redefining what’s possible in internal combustion. Our patented X-Engine architecture delivers a lighter, smaller, and more efficient solution compared to traditional engines - enabling new capabilities across aerospace, defense, and clean power generation. We’re not just building engines - we’re pushing the boundaries of innovation in power and propulsion. As part of our team, you’ll work alongside passionate engineers, designers, and researchers committed to solving hard problems and bringing cutting‑edge technology to life. If you’re excited about clean-sheet engine design, real R&D challenges, and the opportunity to make a direct impact in a small, agile team - this is your chance to help build something truly revolutionary.

Position Overview

The Senior Mechanical Simulation Engineer will lead the design, development, and validation of rotary engine sealing systems and related components. This role involves applying advanced principles of tribology, materials science, and dynamic simulation to optimize seal performance, durability, and reliability under demanding operating conditions. The position requires close collaboration with manufacturing and engineering teams, hands‑on problem solving during testing, and the ability to communicate technical findings effectively. The ideal candidate will have deep expertise in high‑temperature engine components, strong analytical skills, and a proven track record in independent and collaborative R&D projects.

Responsibilities

• Rotary Seal Development: Lead the design and refinement of the rotary engine sealing system, including Apex Seals and Face Seals.
• Journal Bearing Design: Contribute to the design, material selection, and optimization of journal bearings. Analyze bearing loads, clearances, oil flow, and housing deflection to ensure hydrodynamic stability and durability.
• Tribology and Wear: Apply advanced principles of tribology to minimize friction, optimize lubrication, and predict/mitigate wear on seals and housing surfaces.
• Dynamic Simulation: Develop and utilize 1D/3D dynamic models to analyze seal motion, contact pressure, leakage, and flutter under various operating conditions (speed, temperature, load).
• Materials and Manufacturing: Specify and qualify materials appropriate for high-temperature, high-pressure sliding contact, and collaborate with manufacturing partners on component specifications.
• Thermal and Mechanical Analysis (FEA): Utilize Finite Element Analysis (FEA) to assess thermal distortion, structural integrity, and mechanical stress on sealing components and their supporting structures (rotor, housing).
• Validation and Testing: Design, execute, and analyze engine test plans focused on seal performance, durability and friction.
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve complex sealing‑related engine performance issues identified during dyno testing and field trials.
• Communicate findings clearly and effectively to stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, or a related field (Master's preferred).
• 5+ years of experience in the design, development, and validation of ICE power cylinder ring packs and cylinder bores.
• Proficiency with advanced engineering simulation tools (e.g., FEAsuch as Ansys)
• Programming languages: Matlab (MUST), Python/C++
• Deep understanding of high-temperature materials science and their application in severe engine environments.
• Experience with advanced surface treatments or coatings for friction reduction and wear resistance.
• Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced R&D environment.

Benefits & Perks

• Flexible PTO: We value work‑life balance and encourage time to rest and recharge.
• Health & Wellness: Comprehensive medical and voluntary dental, and vision coverage – you choose what works best for you.
• Equity Participation: Permanent employees receive RSUs (Restricted Stock Units).
• 401(k) Match: We offer a 401k w/100% matching up to 3% of your salary and then 50% of contributions between 3-5%.
• Career Growth: Ongoing training, mentorship, and learning opportunities to accelerate your growth.

Our Culture

At LiquidPiston, we embrace challenges, move fast, and celebrate curiosity. Our team thrives on collaboration, creativity, and perseverance. We understand that innovation involves risk—and we’re not afraid to fail as we move forward.

Equal Opportunity Employer

LiquidPiston, Inc. is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Qualified applicants will not be discriminated against, and receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status or disability. All offers of employment at LiquidPiston are contingent upon successful completion of a pre-employment background check and drug screening.