Aerodynamic Wind Tunnel Test Engineer

Job Title: Aerodynamic Wind Tunnel Test Engineer

Location: Arnold AFB, TN- Tullahoma, TN (On-site)

Canvas is seeking a Aerodynamic Wind Tunnel Test Engineer. The Wind Tunnel Test Engineer role is a critical member of the Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) 716th Test Squadron team, responsible for planning, executing, and analyzing complex aerodynamic and store separation testing within AEDC's wind tunnels and associated facilities. This role involves applying engineering principles, efficient engineering tool development, and experimental techniques to gather aerodynamic data for developing weapons systems and air vehicles across a wide range of flight conditions. The engineer will be responsible for all phases of testing from initial concept and design through final reporting. The test engineer position requires the ability to work 1st (0700 - 1500), 2nd (1500 - 2300), or 3rd (2300 - 0700) shift as assigned during test execution phase and occasional weekend work to support Test Squadron directed schedule requirements.

Duties:

Test Planning & Design:

• Collaborate with customers, test managers, and a multi-disciplinary core test team to define test objectives, scope, and requirements for aerodynamic wind tunnel testing, including store separation, stability & control, inlet integration, control effectiveness, jet interaction, and heat transfer.

• Develop detailed test plans, including test matrices, instrumentation requirements, data acquisition strategies, and safety protocols.

• Interpret pre-test simulations and analyses to aid in selection of appropriate instrumentation, including strain gage balances, pressure transducers, accelerometers, and high-speed imaging systems.

• Develop and maintain detailed documentation of test setups, procedures, and results.

Test Execution:

• Oversee the installation and calibration of test articles and instrumentation within the wind tunnel. • Monitor wind tunnel equipment during testing, ensuring data quality and adherence to safety procedures.

• Troubleshoot technical issues that arise during testing and implement corrective actions.

• Coordinate with wind tunnel operators, instrumentation technicians, and other support personnel to ensure smooth and efficient test execution.

• Ensure all testing activities comply with relevant technical go/no-go and AEDC safety policies.

Data Analysis & Reporting:

• Process and analyze large datasets acquired during testing using specialized software tools

• Prepare comprehensive test reports documenting test procedures, results, and conclusions.

• Present test findings to customers and stakeholders through briefings, presentations, and written reports.

Technical Expertise & Innovation:

• Maintain a strong understanding of aerodynamic theory and emerging experimental techniques.

• Stay abreast of advancements in wind tunnel testing and related fields.

• Contribute to the development of new test methodologies and capabilities within the AEDC/716th

Test Squadron Safety:

• Adhere to all safety protocols and procedures.

• Participate in safety training programs.

• Identify and mitigate potential safety hazards in the test environment.

• Promote a culture of safety within the team.

Requirements:

• Bachelor of Science in Applicable Engineering discipline, however a Masters' degree is desired.
• 0 to 3 years conducting experiments in an Aerodynamic wind tunnel
• Understanding of compressible flow.
• Basic knowledge of instrumentation and data acquisition systems.
• Promote a culture of safety within the team.
• The ability to automate tasks and create tools utilizing Python or MS Excel skills.
• 3D CAD modeling experience. (desired)
• Experience with troubleshooting instrumentation such as internal strain gage balances, high precision angle measurement devices, and pressure transducers. (desired)
• Experience with data filtering or time aligning. (desired)
• Ability to make sound and quick judgement calls on large but incomplete sets of data. (desired)

Security Clearance: The ability to maintain and obtain a Secret Clearance.

About Us

Founded in 2007, Canvas connects a passion for going beyond the expected with the knowledge and expertise to deliver what our clients need now and in the future. Canvas has been recognized as a Great Place to Work Certified ™, Fortune Best Small Workplace ™, Fortune Best Workplace for Millennials ™ (2022), B