The Test Technology Division of Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) has an exciting opportunity for a Junior Mechanical Engineer to provide technical support in weapons effects testing and build a lasting career with ARA. The successful candidate should have a background in Engineering, Chemistry, or Physics and should have a strong desire to grow their expertise, work with government counterparts to develop test and analysis programs and make significant contributions to team and division goals and planning efforts. The candidate will have the opportunity to work in a dynamic team environment with frequent client interaction that requires strong multi-tasking and communication skills.

As a Junior Staff Mechanical Engineer, you will be instrumental in supporting planning and field testing for evaluation of weapon effects in a variety of scenarios. These tests are critical to the development of technologies that safeguard our nation from future threats. Testing is highly varied and includes CBRNE defeat and counter-WMD technologies. There will be opportunities to work with technologies in advanced energetic materials, ground shock, thermal effects, structural response, radiation detection, chem/bio defeat, 3D printing, autonomous unmanned systems, and air blast effects. Testing specific to this position include shock tubes, reactive metals, energetic material manufacturing and testing, and radiation detection.

Essential Functions:

Test design, planning, and execution Post-test analysis and reporting Travel to and from test sites Conduct work in the office and in the field

Required Experience/Skills:

Ability to obtain a DoD security clearance US citizenship is required Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Chemistry, Physics or related field Excellent verbal and written communication skills Ability to work well both within a team and independently

Preferred:

Experience with assisting with field test planning and execution Understanding of shock waves, air blast, and shock tubes Understanding of energetic materials and their effects Understanding of 3D printing with a focus on novel printing techniques and materials Understanding of the general principals of radioactive and nuclear effects