Structures Compression Systems Principal Engineer

Job Title: Structures Compression Systems Principal Engineer - Exempt

Location: Based out of Cheshire, CT

Reports to: Chief Engineer, Compressors

Salary Grade:

Job Description: As a Structures Compression Systems Principal Engineer specializing in aerospace engines, you will have a crucial role in the design, analysis, and optimization of compression system structures used in aircraft gas turbine engines. Your role will involve ensuring the structural integrity, durability, and performance of compressor components to meet stringent aerospace requirements.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Design and Analysis: Oversee the design of compression system components including rotor blades, stators, casings, and other structural elements. Utilize reduced-order structural analysis tools and finite element analysis (FEA) to optimize component geometries for strength, stiffness, and weight.
2. Material Selection: Collaborate with materials engineers to select appropriate materials and manufacturing processes for compression system components, recognizing the importance of factors such as material properties, environmental conditions, and cost-effectiveness to ensure optimal performance and durability.
3. Fatigue and Fracture Analysis: Perform fatigue life and fracture mechanics analyses to assess the structural integrity of compression system components over the operational conditions defined by the mission. Identify critical locations as well as potential failure modes and develop mitigation strategies to enhance component reliability.
4. Vibration and Modal Analysis: Conduct vibration and modal analysis to characterize the dynamic behavior of compression system structures. Identify natural frequencies, mode shapes, and potential resonance effects, and implement design modifications to mitigate vibration issues.
5. Thermal Analysis: Evaluate thermal effects on compression system structures due to aerodynamic heating, cooling flows, and internal heat. Ensure adequate thermal management strategies are implemented to prevent excessive temperature gradients and thermal stresses.
6. Design Optimization: Collaborate with aerodynamic engineers to optimize compressor blade and vane shapes for improved aerodynamic performance while maintaining structural integrity and longevity. Balance structural requirements with aerodynamic and aeromechanics objectives to achieve the best overall design solution.
7. Testing Support: Provide guidance and support for structural testing of compression system components and assemblies. Analyze test data to validate analytical predictions and refine structural models and design methodologies.
8. Risk Assessment: Conduct risk assessments to identify potential structural issues such as flutter, resonance, and fatigue cracking. Develop risk mitigation plans and work closely with aerodynamic, mechanical, and systems engineers to address identified risks.
9. Documentation and Reporting: Prepare technical reports, design documentation, and presentations to communicate structural analysis results, design recommendations, and project status to internal stakeholders and customers.
10. Training: Provide guidance and hands-on training to lesser experienced personnel in the application of analytical tools, interpretation of simulation or testing results, and in the balanced decision-making required to field a successful compression system design.

The above listed responsibilities are not exhaustive and may evolve based on skill level, proficiency, and overall performance.

Qualifications:

1. Bachelor’s and preferably Master’s, or Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
2. Strong background in structural mechanics, finite element analysis, and aerospace materials.
3. Strong proficiency in FEA tools (e.g., ANSYS, Nastran) and leveraging them to drive design decisions.
4. Proficiency in CAD software (e.g., CATIA, Siemens NX).
5. 10-15 years of experience with engineering design and/or analysis of compression systems for gas turbine engines from a large OEM or supplier.
6. Familiarity with industry standards and regulations related to aerospace structural design and certification.
7. Excellent problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment.

Joining our team as a Structures Compression Systems Principal Engineer offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to the development of advanced aerospace engine technology, ensuring the structural integrity and performance of compression system components in demanding aerospace applications. If you are passionate about structural engineering, aerospace technology, and innovation, we encourage you to apply and become part of our dynamic team.

AAP Statement
Hanwha Aerospace USA Corporation is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We conform to all the laws, statutes, and regulations concerning equal employment opportunities and affirmative action. We strongly encourage women, minorities, individuals with disabilities, and veterans to apply to all of our job openings. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to status, Genetic Information & Testing, Family & Medical Leave, and or Expression, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. We prohibit retaliation against individuals who bring forth any complaint, orally or in writing, to the employer or the government, or against any individuals who assist or participate in the investigation of any complaint or otherwise oppose discrimination.

*Subject to change with or without notice*