Research Scientist Mechanical Engineer

AV, Inc. is seeking an entry level Research Engineer in Adaptive Structures to work at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, OH. In this role, you will design, prototype, and rigorously test next-generation deployable structures, bridging the gap between theoretical kinematics and physical reality. You will translate conceptual kinematic and folding patterns into functional physical models, support experimental test campaigns, work with advanced materials, and analyze dynamic deployment behavior to validate finite element models.

Responsibilities

• Design & Prototype: Translate conceptual kinematic and folding patterns into functional physical models using rapid iteration.
• Experimental Testing: Support the development and execution of experimental test campaigns to evaluate deployment dynamics, stiction, repeatability, and structural integrity under simulated environmental conditions.
• Material Integration: Work with advanced composites, additive manufacturing materials and flexible thin-film membranes to evaluate and improve packaging efficiency and strength-to-weight performance.
• Data Analysis & Communication: Instrument prototypes with motion capture and strain sensors, analyzing dynamic deployment behavior to validate and refine finite element models.

Requirements

• This position involves working within a government facility and requires U.S. Citizenship
• An advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or other related technical discipline is desired (recent Ph.D. or MS is preferred; graduate students with a defense scheduled will also be considered).
• Working knowledge or academic/research experience in one or more of the following areas: additive manufacturing, composite layup techniques, and computational modeling
• Prior experience with technical computing languages such as Python, Matlab, and/or Julia
• Excellent oral and written communication skills are a prerequisite for employment.

Nice to have

• Expertise in additive manufacturing, composite layup techniques, and computational modeling
• Experience with adaptive structures
• Experience with prototype formation

Benefits

• Benefits: AV offers an excellent benefits package including medical, dental vision, 401K with company matching, a 9/80 work schedule and a paid holiday shutdown. For more information about our company benefit offerings please visit: http://www.avinc.com/myavbenefits.