Materials Analysis Lead Jobs

Kratos Defense and Security Solutions is seeking a Materials Analysis Lead in Birmingham, AL, to support hypersonic programs for the Department of Defense and NASA. The role involves leading a team in materials testing and evaluation, particularly for composites and superalloys. Candidates should have a Master's or PhD in relevant fields, at least 5 years of experience, and the ability to obtain security clearance. Responsibilities include material analysis, supporting modeling efforts, and interfacing with engineers and customers.
Job Description

General Summary

This position provides the opportunity to perform impactful work on a variety of projects that directly supports several hypersonic programs within the Department of Defense and NASA. Candidates with interest and expertise in the field of materials test and evaluation for hypersonics. The candidate must be able to lead a small team of engineers focused on the behavior of composites, ceramics (including UHTCs), and metal superalloys intended for use in hypersonic systems. The candidate must demonstrate competency in relevant micro- and meso-scale material analysis techniques (i.e. SEM/EDS, XRD and Raman spectroscopy, microCT, TGA and FTIR, ICP-OES and -MS).

Key Responsibilities
• Perform non-destructive and destructive analyses of materials undergoing ground testing for hypersonics applications
• Support thermal/aerothermal modeling of hypersonic vehicles and reentry components by illuminating material-centric physics for model developers
• Interface with ground and flight test engineers to support ground test objectives
• Leverage modeling, data, and experience to expand the team's understanding of material performance in hypersonic environments
• Interact with government sponsors and commercial customers, addressing both technical and programmatic questions
• Support the team in technical development related to modeling and simulation tools and materials NDE
• Provide direct reports with technical direction and recognition
• Generate and perform annual performance reviews

Others may be added

Experience and Skills

Minimum Qualifications
• US Citizenship required.
• Must be able to obtain/maintain security clearance at a level equivalent to Department of Defense (DoD) SECRET.
• Master's or PhD in Materials Science, Materials Engineering, Physical Chemistry, or similar
• 5 years of experience working with advanced materials for hypersonic or ballistic applications
• Coursework related to Ceramics, Glass Science, Environmental Barrier Coatings, or Carbon Composites
• Experience in leading a small technical team
• Demonstrated ability to learn quickly in a complex, high-technology environment

Preferred Qualifications
• Existing security clearance at a level equivalent to DoD SECRET.
• 8 years of experience working with advanced materials for hypersonic or ballistic applications
• Experience in integrating meso-scale physics (i.e. reaction kinetics, oxidation, transpiration, etc.) into multiphysics models
• Knowledge of common processing techniques for ceramics, ceramic-matrix-composites (CMCs), and carbon composites
• Experience interacting directly with government sponsors and technical program management

Organizational Core Values
• Integrity - We adhere to a code of sound ethical behavior that builds trust and confidence in all we do. We clearly communicate expectations and provide reliable results and candid feedback to our employees, customers and stakeholders.
• Excellence - We understand and consistently meet or exceed our internal and external customer's expectations. We are accountable for timelines, quality and cost.
• Individual and community focused - We promote an open, collaborative and supportive environment by respecting the rights and contributions of every individual. We openly communicate information and ideas to our stakeholders; customers; employees; and the larger community.
• Innovation - We explore ideas and create solutions to global needs. We use science and engineering to solve the world's most difficult problems.

Job Specific Behaviors
• Motivated- Works independently and a self-starter who can thrive in a dynamic team environment to keep projects on track, resolve problems, and deliver results.
• Analytical Thinking and Detail Orientation- Small details constantly change that can have large impacts on over schedules or objectives. Identifying problems, troubleshooting and developing and implementing solutions requires detailed analysis in each task.
• Quality Orientation- Accomplishes tasks by considering all areas involved; no matter how small; showing concern for all aspects of the job; accurately checking processes, procedures and tasks; being watchful over a period of time.
• Planning and Organization- Systematically identifies issues to be addressed and plans a course of action for self to ensure the accomplishment of specific objectives. This position will require the ability to communicate and coordinate effectively with team members and customers. Candidate should have demonstrated history of effective verbal and written communication.

Work Environment & Conditions

This position will be located at the Kratos SRE office in Birmingham, AL.

Physical Demands

Must be able to work at computer for extended periods of time.

Travel

Minimal domestic travel

Certifications, Licenses & Registrations

None required.

Career Progression

Promotions are tied to demonstrated competencies, job performance, and position availability.

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Job Benefits
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement