About this role
Davidson has distinguished itself in the aerospace and missile defense industry with an outstanding reputation for excellence. Specifically, we're recognized for hiring noted experts, experienced engineers and scientists dedicated to designing and delivering advanced, intelligent technology solutions in defense of our Nation.
Davidson Technologies Inc. is seeking a Missile Modeling IR Plume Engineer in Colorado Springs, CO.
Threat Systems Engineering (TSE) is responsible for the development and delivery of high-fidelity threat modeling products in support of the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) and MDA's Ballistic Missile Defense System (BMDS). TSE is responsible for the development of models and simulations (M&S) used to stimulate element models of MDA's BMDS, including kinematic missile modeling, IR signature modeling, data production/analysis activities, and maintenance/sustainment activities for the entire TSE software baseline. TSE is a cornerstone element to the Threat and Advanced Simulations Development (TASD) contract.
This position requires a detail-oriented entry-level engineer responsible for developing high fidelity threat missile signature data packages for use in a variety of modeling and simulation tools and media. Must have a good understanding of modeling and simulation methods and processes. Must be able to apply standard engineering and mathematical algorithms to ensure the accurate portrayal of expected phenomenology characteristics during the flight of a missile. The selected individual must be able to work with little or no direct supervision, work as an integral member of a product delivery team and meet time critical delivery schedules
Essential Functions:
- Gain experience with threat model phenomenology with a focus on Infrared (IR) signatures
- Research into IR signature predictions and simulation models
- Actively work with the team to ensure completion of data production needs in support of MDA Ground Test Modeling and Simulation
- Work in close coordination with TMC engineers for software requirements of threat modeling tools
- Understand stakeholder requirements and ensure the quality production of threat missile data.
Job Requirements:
- Level 2:
Bachelor's Degree in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering or Mathematics) discipline preferred from an accredited university and 2 years of related experience, or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 0 years of experience.
- Experience with technical analysis of modeling and simulation data sets
- Experience with Verification and Validation of modeling and simulation data
- Candidate must be results-focused, work well within a dynamic environment, be self-motivated, able to work in a team environment, and be able to produce reliable products and documentation within established deadlines
- Level 3:
Bachelor's Degree in a STEM discipline preferred from an accredited university and 5 years of related experience, or a Master's degree in a STEM discipline and 3 years of experience, or a Doctorate in a STEM discipline with 0 years of experience.
- Several years of experience with technical analysis of modeling and simulation data sets
- Several years of experience with Verification and Validation of modeling and simulation data
- Candidate must be results-focused, work well within a dynamic environment, be self-motivated, able to work in a team environment, and be able to produce reliable products and documentation within established deadlines
Preferred Requirements:
- Bachelor of Science degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Optical Sciences, or a related STEM field
- Strong math, physics or engineering background
- Modeling, Simulation, and automation experience
- Experience with atmospheric modeling codes (e.g. MODTRAN)
- Experience with JANNAF radiative signature codes
- Experience working in Linux based distributed computational environments
Basic Requirements across levels:
- Must already possess an active DoD Secret clearance.
- Must be able to work both independently and in a team environment.
- Good oral and written communication skills
- Experience with scripting/automation languages such as Python, Bash, or MATLAB
- Excellent time management and great attention to details are necessary
- Knowledge of the flight characteristics, motion, atmospheric dynamics, and performance of missiles
Preferred Requirements:
- Strong math, physics or engineering background is preferred
- Previous experience with analyzing flight characteristics, motion, atmospheric dynamics, and missile performance parameters of ballistic missiles is highly desirable
- Background in infrared signature modeling
- Technical Planning, project management and project scheduling experience
- Experience with Blackbody IR Emissions
- Familiarity with Optical Signatures Code (OSC)
- Experience with Joint Army Navy NASA Air Force (JANNAF) plume codes for predictive signatures (SOCRATES-P, PERCORP, VIPER, etc.)
- Strong knowledge of the flight characteristics, motion, atmospheric dynamics, and performance of missiles
- Strong background in missile system engineering performance is highly desirable
- Experience in Agile software development methodologies including Scrum and Kanban
- Familiarity and/or experience with Model-based Systems Engineering theory and tools
Clearance Requirement:
- Active DoD Secret Clearance or higher