General Summary Kratos SRE is the worldwide leader in characterization of materials at extreme conditions. Our Thermo-Structural Systems group is looking for a highly qualified and motivated mechanical engineer to lead material research and development test programs in the field of Thermal Protection Systems (TPS). Successful applicants shall have an established background in solid mechanics concepts, design, engineering analysis, and testing. This position is for someone who is or is willing to become a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in the field, and as such we require excellent communication and presentation skills and a good ability to interface with customers and other SMEs from within the research community. Key Responsibilities * Communicate with customers to understand their technical needs. * Design and develop specific material property characterization tests based on customer inputs. * Use engineering principles and judgment to identify strengths and weaknesses of alternatives. * Analyze test data, develop statistics, and determine representative sample properties. * Write technical reports and oral presentations to communicate results and conclusions to customers and propose future testing. * Monitor cost and schedule of test program to keep programs on schedule and on budget. * Attend and present R&D work at conferences. * Improve existing test methods and capabilities. * Develop new tests methodologies and equipment to meet customer needs. Work Environment & Conditions This position involves some work in an office and laboratory environment and could require the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) including: * Safety glasses * Hearing protection (varies based on tasks) * Shoe covers JOB REQUIREMENTS: Required 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 Ph.D. in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Material Science Engineering. * Proficiency with MS Office applications, including Excel, Word, and PowerPoint. * Experience with Computer Aided Design software (CAD), parametric modeling, and engineering drawings using SolidWorks. Preferred Qualifications: * Two to ten years of experience in characterization of materials for high-temperature environments including carbon composites and refractory metals. * Experience with mechanical property characterization techniques, fracture toughness, and failure criteria of carbon composites and refractory metals. * Understanding in FEA Analysis principles using ANSYS, COMSOL, or ABAQUS * Programming experience in MATLAB. Travel: 5% Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities. EEO Is The Law Disability Accessibility Accommodation If you require an accommodation to navigate or apply to our careers site, please send your request to or call 858-964-2916. Any inquires not related to requesting an accommodation will be discarded. Pay Transparency The company will not discharge or in any other manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. Job Applicant Privacy Notice For applicants in the EU and California residents, please review our privacy notice.