Hypersonics Research Engineer

Job Title:

Hypersonics Research Engineer

Location:

West Lafayette

The Purdue Applied Research Institute (PARI) and Purdue University have made significant strategic investments in advanced modeling, simulation, manufacturing, and testing capabilities to accelerate the development and delivery of hypersonic systems for national priorities. Through strong partnerships with government and industry leaders, PARI is uniquely positioned as a key contributor to next‑generation hypersonic innovation.

The Research Engineer will play a critical role in advancing these efforts through hands‑on research and development focused on next‑generation materials, advanced manufacturing techniques, and system integration within hypersonic platforms. In this role, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to solve complex technical challenges, drive innovation, and develop cutting‑edge solutions that push the boundaries of hypersonic technology.

• Additive and advanced manufacturing of high‑temperature materials.
• Mechanical testing and component quality assurance.
• Validation and verification processes.

Education and Experience

Required:

• Bachelor’s in Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related fields.
• Salary and responsibilities will be commensurate with the candidate’s experience.
• Senior research engineer positions will be considered for candidates with advanced degrees and/or substantive industrial experience.

Security Clearance: Candidates must be able to obtain a Secret security clearance to be considered for this position. Maintaining this clearance is a continuous condition of employment. Failure to obtain or retain the required clearance may result in termination. US Citizenship is a requirement.

Skills Required:

• Demonstrated expertise in materials modeling, systems engineering, advanced manufacturing techniques including ceramic and metallic additive manufacturing, mechanical behavior of materials, material characterization, and/or component validation and verification.
• Strong background in CAD, finite element analysis, additive manufacturing, integrated computational materials engineering techniques and software.
• Experience in mechanical testing and characterizing materials and components using state‑of‑the‑art equipment and measurement techniques.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in cross‑functional teams.
• Able to provide technical direction in proposal writing in areas of expertise.
• Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex technical concepts effectively.

Preferred:

• Related industrial experience.
• Experience working in a laboratory research environment.

• Benefits summary: https://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below)..php
• Purdue will not sponsor employment authorization for this position.
• A background check will be required for employment in this position. Pre‑employment checks are required for this position.
• FLSA:
  Exempt (Not Eligible for Overtime).
• Retirement Eligibility:
  Defined Contributions immediately.

Purdue University is an EO/EA University.