Senior Applied Research Scientist

Mach is a defense manufacturing company that builds munitions to help the United States win future wars. Backed by $85M in funding from top venture firms, our small lean team ideates, designs, manufactures, and sells cutting-edge weapons to the Department of Defense. Mach Industries is seeking an experienced and innovative Thermal Engineer to lead the thermal management efforts for our advanced aerospace systems, with a primary focus on air-breathing engines and their integration into flight vehicles. This role is critical for ensuring optimal thermal performance and reliability of both propulsion systems and overall vehicle structures under varying and extreme operating conditions. You will analyze how heat transfer, thermal loads, and environmental conditions affect the air-breathing engine, as well as the structural integrity and aerodynamic performance of the aircraft. Your work will ensure our platforms meet mission-critical requirements and thrive in high-stakes environments. Responsibilities: Design, analyze, and optimize thermal management systems for Mach’s vehicles including all aspects of thermal design such propulsion, avionics, and aerothermal effects. Perform analyses to understand how heat transfer, thermal loads, and environmental changes impact performance and the vehicle's structural integrity. Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including propulsion, structural, and aerodynamics teams, to integrate thermal solutions into vehicle designs while maintaining performance and manufacturability. Lead the development of thermal testing procedures, including thermal cycling, environmental testing, and failure mode analysis, to ensure system reliability. Provide actionable insights into how general heat changes influence the vehicle's aerodynamics, materials, and operational lifespan. Create technical documentation, including detailed thermal analysis reports, design guidelines, and test reports. Basic Qualifications: 5+ years of experience in thermal engineering, with a focus on aerospace applications including propulsion systems. Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field; a Master’s degree is preferred. Proficiency in thermal analysis software and related simulation tools (e.g., ANSYS, STAR-CCM+, Thermal Desktop). Strong understanding of heat transfer principles, thermal loads, and their effects on propulsion and flight vehicle performance. Experience with thermal testing, validation, and environmental testing methods. Strong problem-solving skills with an ability to translate complex thermal challenges into practical engineering solutions. Excellent collaboration and communication skills, with experience working in fast-paced, multidisciplinary environments. Preferred Qualifications: Hands-on experience with thermal management of liquid-fueled or air-breathing engines. Knowledge of material properties and how thermal stresses influence the structural integrity of flight vehicles. Familiarity with thermal integration into unmanned systems or other defense platforms. Experience developing software in languages such as Python or MATLAB to analyze results and automate processes. Benefits at Mach Industries: At Mach Industries, we are committed to supporting the well-being and success of our team members. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to offer financial security and foster personal and professional growth. Here’s an overview of the benefits available to full-time employees: Competitive Compensation Package The salary range for this position is an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including experience, education, skills, and business considerations. The actual salary offered may vary. In addition to a competitive base salary, employees may receive equity grants, which are considered part of Mach Industries’ total compensation package. Healthcare & Wellness Benefits Platinum Healthcare Coverage: For U.S. employees, Mach Industries provides platinum-level coverage for medical, dental, and vision insurance at no cost to the employee, with 90% of coverage for dependents. Generous Time Off & Leave Policies Holiday Calendar: We offer a generous holiday schedule, including 13 holidays. Holiday Shutdown: At the end of December, the company provides an extra 10 days off. Paid Time Off (PTO): Competitive PTO policies for personal and vacation needs. Company-Provided Meals Daily Meals & Snacks: Daily catered lunches and fully stocked kitchens with snacks, drinks, and a coffee bar. Retirement & Financial Security 401(k) Plan: We offer a company 401(k) plan with a 5% match to support your financial future. Relocation Assistance Relocation support for eligible positions, ensuring a smooth transition for team members moving for work. Mach Industries is committed to offering a comprehensive benefits package that supports your health, financial security, and personal growth. We want to ensure you have the tools and resources you need to thrive both inside and outside of work. Why Mach Industries? At Mach Industries, we are pioneering a new era of decentralized unmanned systems to secure the American strategic edge in future warfare. As a Thermal Engineer, you will be at the forefront of thermal management innovation, ensuring our systems excel in performance and reliability. Join us at Mach Industries, where your work will shape the future of aerospace technology and strengthen national security. Disclosures This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!