Rotordynamics Engineer

Description

Position Type: Full Time Salary

Work Model: Remote with some onsite work as required

POSITION OVERVIEW

We are seeking a Rotordynamics Engineer to lead and support the analysis, design, validation, and troubleshooting of high-performance rotating machinery systems. This role spans the full product lifecycle—from early conceptual studies and trade analyses through detailed modeling, testing, field support, and root cause investigations.

The ideal candidate has strong theoretical foundations in rotor dynamics, practical experience with real-world turbomachinery, and the ability to collaborate across aerodynamic, structural, mechanical, manufacturing, testing, and software development teams. Level and scope of responsibility will be adjusted based on experience.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Rotordynamic Analysis & Modeling

- Conduct comprehensive rotordynamics analyses including: 

• Lateral, torsional, and axial vibration studies
• Critical speed maps and Campbell diagrams
• Stability analysis and log decrement evaluation
• Unbalance and forced response
• Transient and steady-state simulations

- Develop analytical and numerical models of rotor–bearing–seal systems using industry-standard and in-house tools

- Analyze system sensitivity to bearing stiffness, damping, support flexibility, and operating conditions

- Provide input on design of shafts, and support structures

- Interface with clients to discuss analysis goals, required information, and project timeline.

Bearing & Seal Systems

- Assist in selecting appropriate bearing technology for various applications

- Demonstrate understanding of advantages, limitations, and dynamic behavior of common turbomachinery bearing technologies, including:

• Fluid film bearings
• Rolling element bearings
• Magnetic bearings
• Hybrid configurations
• Gas film bearings

- Assess seal dynamics and rotordynamic cross-coupling effects

- Optimize bearing performance and system stability through detailed parametric analysis

Testing, Validation & Troubleshooting

- Work with test engineers to: 

• Define instrumentation and test plans
• Support test execution
• Correlate analytical predictions with measured data

- Diagnose vibration, instability, and resonance issues in operating machinery

- Conduct root cause analysis of machinery failures and propose corrective actions

- Provide technical support during commissioning, troubleshooting, and maintenance

Methods Development & Software Support

- Contribute to internal methods development and best practices

- Support commercial software development through: 

• Formulating engineering problems
• Researching state-of-the-art methods and modeling techniques 
• Performing validation and verification
• Testing and documenting new functionality

- Collaborate closely with software development teams to translate engineering needs into analytical capability

Communication & Documentation

• Prepare detailed technical reports, documentation, and presentations
• Clearly communicate technical findings to internal teams and external customers
• Contribute to proposal efforts and technical reviews as needed

Requirements

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• B.S. or M.S. in Mechanical Engineering or closely related field
• Strong fundamentals in rotordynamics, vibrations, and dynamics of rotating systems
• Experience with rotordynamic analysis tools (e.g., DyRoBeS, XLTRC2, ARMD, or equivalent)
• Experience correlating analytical models with experimental data
• Be familiar with relevant industry standards (API, aerospace, energy sector requirements)
• Strong problem-solving ability and engineering judgment
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

PREFERRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Experience with high-speed turbomachinery (compressors, turbines, pumps, expanders)
• Exposure to experimental testing, instrumentation, and data acquisition
• Programming/scripting experience (MATLAB, Python, or similar)
• Experience contributing to analysis method or software development

The compensation range posted represents the full salary range for the role. Actual pay will be determined based on a candidate’s experience, skills, and the position level ultimately offered.