Loads & Dynamics Engineer

Saronic · Defense · Austin, TX · Engineering

This role focuses on modeling and analyzing the dynamic loads and forces acting on autonomous surface vessels for defense applications. Responsibilities include developing finite element models, performing dynamic testing, analyzing simulation data, and recommending design changes to ensure vessel performance and safety under various environmental conditions. The role requires expertise in dynamics, structural integrity, and system performance, with a strong emphasis on simulation and hardware validation in maritime environments.

What you'd actually do

  1. Analyze and resolve dynamic load-related problems affecting autonomous surface vessels, utilizing a combination of analysis, simulation, and field data.
  2. Develop finite element models and lumped element models to simulate vessel response under various load conditions (e.g., waves, wind, operational stress).
  3. Perform dynamic testing from start to finish, including pre-test analysis, sensor selection and installation, test execution, data analysis, signal processing, and model validation.
  4. Own system-level dynamic analysis and recommend hardware or design changes across engineering teams to enhance vessel performance under dynamic conditions.
  5. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to assess and refine vehicle design for load-bearing capability, ensuring it meets stringent operational and defense standards.

Skills

Required

  • Bachelor’s degree or greater in Mathematics, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Structural Engineering, Naval Architecture, or a related field.
  • 2+ years of professional experience with dynamics, particularly in structural or fluid dynamics, with a focus on vehicle response to external forces.
  • Strong experience with dynamic simulation and load analysis using industry-standard tools.
  • Proven ability to conduct testing and data analysis to assess load dynamics in complex systems.
  • Proficiency with software tools like MATLAB, Python, and commercial finite element modeling tools (e.g., NASTRAN).
  • Hands-on experience with both dynamic analysis and hardware testing.
  • Experience in the modeling of fluid-structure interaction, particularly in maritime environments.
  • Knowledge of naval architecture and experience with hull, propulsion, and stability dynamics.
  • Expertise in vibration, shock, and fatigue testing as it applies to large-scale marine or autonomous systems.
  • Familiarity with control systems and integration of autonomous technologies within physical vessel systems.
  • Experience working in defense-related industries, particularly with DoD contractors or government programs.
  • Advanced knowledge of structural integrity and failure mechanisms related to dynamic loading conditions.

Nice to have

  • Familiarity with control systems and integration of autonomous technologies within physical vessel systems.

What the JD emphasized

  • defense
  • DoD
  • autonomous surface vessels
  • dynamic load-related problems
  • dynamic testing
  • dynamic analysis
  • structural integrity
  • defense standards
  • defense-related industries
  • DoD contractors
  • export-controlled information
  • U.S. Person status