Engineer II - Thermal Modeling, Simulation, and Analysis

About the role

We are seeking an Engineering Analyst with strong thermal analysis capabilities to support critical technology evaluations for Directed Energy systems. In this role, you will work within cross‑functional teams focused on high‑energy laser systems, complex modeling, simulation, and analysis efforts. The ideal candidate is able to rapidly learn, operate with minimal oversight, and apply engineering principles to analyze, predict, and optimize system performance. This position requires a solid foundation in mechanical engineering principles, hands‑on thermal modeling experience, strong analytical reasoning, and the ability to convert sparse technical information into actionable insights for decision‑makers.

Responsibilities

• Thermal Modeling & System Analysis: Perform detailed steady‑state and transient thermal analyses of laser systems, materials, and opto‑mechanical components.
• Develop, validate, and refine thermal models using FEA (e.g., Ansys Thermal).
• Evaluate heat transfer mechanisms including multi‑component conduction, convection, and radiation and their impact on operational performance.
• Assess thermal mitigation approaches, cooling strategies, and thermal effects on beam quality and component reliability.
• Modeling, Simulation & Data Processing: Build and maintain pre‑processing and post‑processing tools using MATLAB and Python to streamline existing Modeling and Simulation workflows.
• Integrate experimental data, sensor outputs, and simulation results into cohesive thermal and system‑level assessments.
• Identify issues in existing models, simulation frameworks, and analysis pipelines, and implement improvements.
• Laser Systems Evaluation: Simulate laser propagation, energy deposition, material response, and system efficiency using an end‑to‑end framework.
• Support test planning and execution through predictive modeling, scenario evaluation, and post‑test data analytics.
• Interpret optical and photonic diagnostics in the context of thermal behavior and system performance.
• Cross‑Functional Technical Communication: Synthesize disparate technical sources such as research papers, reports, and experimental datasets into a single, coherent engineering narrative.
• Present complex thermal and laser‑system insights to teams of engineers and analysts, non‑technical stakeholders, project managers, and partner teams.
• Collaborate across mechanical, electrical, optical, and test engineering disciplines to support rapid learning and knowledge transfer.
• Maintain a regular and predictable work schedule.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships within the department, the Strategic Business Units, Strategic Capabilities Units and the Company.
• Interact appropriately with others in order to maintain a positive and productive work environment.
• Perform other duties as necessary.

Requirements

• BS degree or higher in Engineering or a related technical field plus 2 or more years related experience. Each higher‑level degree (Master’s or Ph.D.) may substitute for two years of experience. Related technical experience may be considered in lieu of education. Degree must be from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the US Secretary of Education, US Department of Education.
• A current, active Top Secret security clearance with the ability to obtain and maintain a Top Secret/SCI.
• Demonstrated experience with thermal analysis using FEA or CFD tools (Ansys, COMSOL, or equivalent).
• Solid understanding of heat transfer principles and thermal‑material interactions.
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or C++ for data analysis and custom model development.
• Familiarity with CAD and simulation environments such as SolidWorks, Ansys, or Abaqus.
• Excellent analytical, problem‑solving, and communication skills.
• Ability to quickly learn complex systems and operate independently with minimal oversight.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Physics, or a related discipline plus 2 years relevant experience preferred.
• 3+ years of engineering or analytical experience, preferably in R&D or defense/aerospace environments.
• Experience with high‑energy laser systems, thermal testing and analysis, data acquisition, and instrumentation.
• Experience integrating experimental thermal data with predictive models.

Pay

Full‑Time Salary Range: $72,150 – $122,655. This range is based on market pay structures; individual salaries are determined by business considerations, local market conditions, internal equity, and candidate qualifications such as skills, education, and experience.

Benefits

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Health savings accounts
• 401(k) savings plan
• Disability coverage
• Life and accident insurance
• Employee assistance program
• Legal plan
• Discounts on home, auto, and pet insurance
• Paid time off, paid holidays, paid parental leave, military leave, bereavement leave, and applicable federal and state sick leave
• Company recognition program with monetary or non‑monetary awards
• Other incentives may be available based on position level and/or job specifics

Schedule

On‑Site Work Environment: This position requires regular in‑person engagement by working on‑site five days each normally scheduled week in the primary work location. Travel and local commute between company campuses and other possible non‑company locations may be required.

Working Conditions: Work is performed in an office, laboratory, production floor, or cleanroom, outdoors or remote research environment. May occasionally work in production work centers where use of protective equipment and gear is required. May access other facilities in various weather conditions.