Prin Mechanical Engineer (SRM - Thermal Analyst)

Accountabilities:: As Principal Mechanical Engineer, you will lead and contribute to advanced thermal engineering activities, applying specialized mechanical engineering expertise to analyze, develop, validate, and optimize solid rocket motor components and thermal protection solutions. Conduct detailed thermal analyses of solid rocket motor components using advanced engineering techniques and industry-standard analytical tools. Design, size, and evaluate internal insulation, external thermal protection systems, and structural insulators. Develop predictive ablation and erosion models to assess material behavior and component performance under thermal stress. Validate analytical models using experimental and test data to ensure accuracy and reliability. Define and support sub-scale testing activities to characterize the thermal and mechanical properties of insulation and ablative materials. Evaluate and recommend suitable ablative materials and thermal protection solutions for solid rocket motor applications. Apply advanced mechanical engineering principles to design, analyze, modify, test, and optimize mechanically functioning systems and equipment. Interpret engineering drawings, blueprints, technical specifications, schematics, and computer-generated reports. Research and assess customer design proposals, technical specifications, and engineering documentation to evaluate feasibility, cost, performance, and maintenance requirements. Specify system components and recommend design modifications to ensure compliance with engineering and performance specifications. Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to resolve technical challenges, investigate system malfunctions, and provide engineering recommendations. Investigate equipment failures and operational difficulties, identify root causes, and recommend corrective actions. Prepare technical reports, engineering documentation, and presentations detailing analysis results and supporting recommendations. Present technical findings to colleagues, customers, and stakeholders during engineering design reviews. Provide technical guidance to others, lead complex problem-solving activities, and contribute to engineering projects with a high degree of independence. Requirements: The ideal candidate is an experienced mechanical engineering professional with strong expertise in thermal analysis, applied mechanics, and engineering design. You should demonstrate advanced analytical capabilities, sound technical judgment, and the ability to manage complex engineering assignments independently while collaborating effectively with cross-functional teams. Associate's degree and 8–10 years of relevant professional experience. Engineering degree required. Strong understanding of mechanical engineering principles, thermal analysis, and applied mechanics. Experience with mechanical design, design optimization, engineering requirements analysis, and technical design reviews. Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. Familiarity with CAD and Computer-Aided Engineering (CAE) software. Strong analytical thinking and technical problem-solving skills. Excellent written and verbal communication abilities, including the ability to present technical information clearly. Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet deadlines, and exercise sound independent judgment. Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of multidisciplinary engineering teams. Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in Engineering or a related discipline. Experience in thermal analysis of solid rocket motor components or comparable high-performance engineering systems. Knowledge of insulation sizing, thermal protection systems, ablative materials, ablation modeling, and erosion prediction. Experience with experimental testing, model validation, material characterization, and engineering prototyping. Advanced knowledge of mechanical design, design optimization, and engineering analysis methodologies. Benefits: Annual Salary: $114,000–$154,000, depending on work location, relevant skills, professional experience, and education. Eligibility to participate in a Gain Sharing Program. Medical, dental, and vision insurance. Short-term and long-term disability insurance. Basic life insurance. Pre-tax spending accounts. 401(k) retirement savings plan. Non-Contributory Retirement Contribution. Voluntary Critical Illness Insurance. Accident Insurance. Identity Theft Protection. Enhanced Legal Services. Hospital Indemnity Insurance. Educational Assistance Program. Employee Assistance Program. 120 hours of annual paid time off (PTO). Paid holidays. Up to 3 weeks of paid family leave. Full-time employment with a flexible 9/80 work schedule. Remote work option or on-site work at designated facilities in Huntsville, Alabama, or Hampton, Arkansas. Opportunities to contribute to complex engineering projects and develop advanced technical expertise.