Structural and Dynamic Systems Engineer - Experimental
Job Summary:
This entry level/early career professional, applied science position conducts experiments via third party and in-house tools to determine structural performance of components and systems. The results from the experiments are used to determine the validity of the design to meet the customer requirements. Design recommendations are then provided as needed.
Key Responsibilities:
Investigates product and system problems, understands causal mechanisms, recommends appropriate action, owns problem resolution and documents results with guidance from more experienced team members Main focus is on the execution and improvement of established processes primarily documented in detailed local and global work instructions (EPs) that are required in Engineering Standard Work (ESW) and/or Design Validation Plans (DVP&R). This is accomplished through standard, as well as development of specialized experimental tools and methods that are required to support the Design and Validation processes and enable high confidence decision making. Obtains input from Design, Thermal Sciences, Materials and Product Validation groups and delivers key structural performance measurements like motion, load, natural frequencies, stress, design margin, life, sound power to Design and Product Validation. Uses formal training like Statics, Dynamics, Machine Design, Mechanics of Materials, Failure Analysis, Engineering Materials and others along with test and measurement results to make Design decisions of structural performance of components and systems. Has ownership of problem resolution for moderately complex components, products, systems, subsystems or services with a greater degree of technical complexity and ambiguity over the entry level engineer and with greater accountability to the project team. Owns problem resolution for moderately complex components, products, systems, subsystems or services with technical complexity and ambiguity increasing as experience is gained in the role. Provides independent execution of established work processes and systems, while still developing technology or product knowledge; engages with the improvement of systems and processes. Involves minimal direct management of people, but could involve the coordination and direction of work amongst technicians and/or temporary student employees. Contributes effectively toward team goals, exhibits influence within a work group and continues to develop proficiency in the competency areas critical to success in the role.ResponsibilitiesCompetencies: Applies Principles of Dynamics and Vibration - Determines motion of components and systems via numerical modeling and/or physical measurements; evaluates rigid and flexible body motion, natural frequencies, mode shapes, displacements, velocities, accelerations, friction, and wear to draw conclusions that influence design decisions with internal and external customers. Applies Principles of Fatigue and Durability - Determines life of components and systems via numerical modeling and/or physical measurements; evaluates component temperatures, natural frequencies, mode shapes, displacements, strains/stresses, wear, and fatigue life to draw conclusions that influence design decisions with internal and external customers. Applies Principles of Statistical Methods - Analyzes technical data using descriptive statistics, probability distributions, graphical analysis, and statistical inference (population and sample, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing); models relationships between response and independent variables using analysis of variance, regression, and design of experiments to make rigorous, data-based decisions. Function Based Product Testing of "X" - Selects appropriate equipment and techniques to operate the product and record operational data in a hardware or software based testing environment most often required as part of a product verification or validation plan; evaluates quality and validity of measurement data; analyzes test results using accepted standards to characterize product capabilities in alignment with the requirements of the engineer responsible for making product decisions. Product Function Modeling, Simulation and Analysis - Impacts product design decisions through the utilization and/or interpretation of computational tools and methods that predict the capability of a product's function relative to its system, sub-system and/or component level requirements. Product Function Test System Design - Interprets test equipment specifications from test standards or lab customer requirements; selects and integrates appropriate equipment, instrumentation and software to control boundary conditions and collect measurement data; assesses capability of the lab equipment against the requirements and support infrastructure. Collaborates - Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives. Communicates effectively - Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences. Decision quality - Making good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving forward. Drives results - Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances. Self-development - Actively seeking new ways to grow and be challenged using both formal and informal development channels. Values differences - Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization. Systems Thinking - Defines the system of interest by drawing the boundaries, identifying its context within its environment, its interfaces, and that it has a lifecycle to aid in planning the problem statement, scope and deliverables ; analyzes linkages and interactions between elements that comprise the system of interest by using appropriate methods, models and integration of outcomes to understand the system, predict its behavior and devise modifications to it in order to produce the desired effects. Technical Documentation - Documents information based on knowledge gained as part of technical function activities; communicates to stakeholders with the goal of enabling improved technical productivity and effective knowledge transfer to others who were not originally part of the initial learning. Education, Licenses, Certifications: College, university, or equivalent Masters degree in Engineering or appropriate STEM field is required. Post-graduate (Master's) degree relevant to this discipline area may be required for select roles. This position may require licensing for compliance with export controls or sanctions regulations. Experience: Entry level/Early career professional. Preferred candidates would have relevant experience working in either a temporary student employment environment (intern, co-op, or other extracurricular team activities) or as an early career professional in a relevant technical discipline area. Preferred candidates would also have a mix of experience using MS Office tools, Matlab, LabVIEW, nCode, Siemens Test.Lab and Windows operating systems.QualificationsCollege Job type: Full Time Entry LevelSubfunction: Structural, Dynamic and Acoustic SystemsDegree level: MastersEducational Program: Mechanical Engineering preferred (with specialization in vibration / structural dynamics is a plusStart date: May 2026 Job Skill Requirements: KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:Measuring and analyzing vibration, strain, and other data on running engines in test cells or in customer applications or component test rigsDigital signal processing to report data such as FFT spectrums, engine order vibration plots, PSD plotsModal analysis and Operating Deflection Shape animation using vibration dataUnderstanding capscrew loads and bolted joint behaviorConducting fatigue tests with servo-hydraulic or electro-dynamic fatigue rigsInterpreting stress and strain through failure analysis – particularly fatigue theoriesParticipate in work planning and scheduling to ensure efficient use of laboratory resourcesWork closely with technicians to assure that engineering experimental data is complete and accurately documented SKILLS - FUNCTIONAL/TECHNICAL:Experimental testing experience (Vibration, Strain, Stress and Fatigue)Diesel engine, fuel systems, air handling, and controls knowledge is a plusSkills in experimental data analysis to correlate models SKILLS - TEAMWORK:Ability to work effectively both as an individual contributor and as a member of cross-functional teamsEffective communications skillsAbility to present data and engineering decisions in ways that is clear and easy to understandAbility to work in a team environment including customers SKILLS - LEADERSHIP:Manage multiple projects simultaneouslyPlan and carry out projectsDirect work of technicians and communicate with other teams in other geographical locationsRequired Work Location: Onsite with FlexibilityCompanyCummins is an equal opportunity employer. Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity, or other status protected by law.
Apply Now
This entry level/early career professional, applied science position conducts experiments via third party and in-house tools to determine structural performance of components and systems. The results from the experiments are used to determine the validity of the design to meet the customer requirements. Design recommendations are then provided as needed.
Key Responsibilities:
Investigates product and system problems, understands causal mechanisms, recommends appropriate action, owns problem resolution and documents results with guidance from more experienced team members Main focus is on the execution and improvement of established processes primarily documented in detailed local and global work instructions (EPs) that are required in Engineering Standard Work (ESW) and/or Design Validation Plans (DVP&R). This is accomplished through standard, as well as development of specialized experimental tools and methods that are required to support the Design and Validation processes and enable high confidence decision making. Obtains input from Design, Thermal Sciences, Materials and Product Validation groups and delivers key structural performance measurements like motion, load, natural frequencies, stress, design margin, life, sound power to Design and Product Validation. Uses formal training like Statics, Dynamics, Machine Design, Mechanics of Materials, Failure Analysis, Engineering Materials and others along with test and measurement results to make Design decisions of structural performance of components and systems. Has ownership of problem resolution for moderately complex components, products, systems, subsystems or services with a greater degree of technical complexity and ambiguity over the entry level engineer and with greater accountability to the project team. Owns problem resolution for moderately complex components, products, systems, subsystems or services with technical complexity and ambiguity increasing as experience is gained in the role. Provides independent execution of established work processes and systems, while still developing technology or product knowledge; engages with the improvement of systems and processes. Involves minimal direct management of people, but could involve the coordination and direction of work amongst technicians and/or temporary student employees. Contributes effectively toward team goals, exhibits influence within a work group and continues to develop proficiency in the competency areas critical to success in the role.ResponsibilitiesCompetencies: Applies Principles of Dynamics and Vibration - Determines motion of components and systems via numerical modeling and/or physical measurements; evaluates rigid and flexible body motion, natural frequencies, mode shapes, displacements, velocities, accelerations, friction, and wear to draw conclusions that influence design decisions with internal and external customers. Applies Principles of Fatigue and Durability - Determines life of components and systems via numerical modeling and/or physical measurements; evaluates component temperatures, natural frequencies, mode shapes, displacements, strains/stresses, wear, and fatigue life to draw conclusions that influence design decisions with internal and external customers. Applies Principles of Statistical Methods - Analyzes technical data using descriptive statistics, probability distributions, graphical analysis, and statistical inference (population and sample, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing); models relationships between response and independent variables using analysis of variance, regression, and design of experiments to make rigorous, data-based decisions. Function Based Product Testing of "X" - Selects appropriate equipment and techniques to operate the product and record operational data in a hardware or software based testing environment most often required as part of a product verification or validation plan; evaluates quality and validity of measurement data; analyzes test results using accepted standards to characterize product capabilities in alignment with the requirements of the engineer responsible for making product decisions. Product Function Modeling, Simulation and Analysis - Impacts product design decisions through the utilization and/or interpretation of computational tools and methods that predict the capability of a product's function relative to its system, sub-system and/or component level requirements. Product Function Test System Design - Interprets test equipment specifications from test standards or lab customer requirements; selects and integrates appropriate equipment, instrumentation and software to control boundary conditions and collect measurement data; assesses capability of the lab equipment against the requirements and support infrastructure. Collaborates - Building partnerships and working collaboratively with others to meet shared objectives. Communicates effectively - Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences. Decision quality - Making good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving forward. Drives results - Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances. Self-development - Actively seeking new ways to grow and be challenged using both formal and informal development channels. Values differences - Recognizing the value that different perspectives and cultures bring to an organization. Systems Thinking - Defines the system of interest by drawing the boundaries, identifying its context within its environment, its interfaces, and that it has a lifecycle to aid in planning the problem statement, scope and deliverables ; analyzes linkages and interactions between elements that comprise the system of interest by using appropriate methods, models and integration of outcomes to understand the system, predict its behavior and devise modifications to it in order to produce the desired effects. Technical Documentation - Documents information based on knowledge gained as part of technical function activities; communicates to stakeholders with the goal of enabling improved technical productivity and effective knowledge transfer to others who were not originally part of the initial learning. Education, Licenses, Certifications: College, university, or equivalent Masters degree in Engineering or appropriate STEM field is required. Post-graduate (Master's) degree relevant to this discipline area may be required for select roles. This position may require licensing for compliance with export controls or sanctions regulations. Experience: Entry level/Early career professional. Preferred candidates would have relevant experience working in either a temporary student employment environment (intern, co-op, or other extracurricular team activities) or as an early career professional in a relevant technical discipline area. Preferred candidates would also have a mix of experience using MS Office tools, Matlab, LabVIEW, nCode, Siemens Test.Lab and Windows operating systems.QualificationsCollege Job type: Full Time Entry LevelSubfunction: Structural, Dynamic and Acoustic SystemsDegree level: MastersEducational Program: Mechanical Engineering preferred (with specialization in vibration / structural dynamics is a plusStart date: May 2026 Job Skill Requirements: KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:Measuring and analyzing vibration, strain, and other data on running engines in test cells or in customer applications or component test rigsDigital signal processing to report data such as FFT spectrums, engine order vibration plots, PSD plotsModal analysis and Operating Deflection Shape animation using vibration dataUnderstanding capscrew loads and bolted joint behaviorConducting fatigue tests with servo-hydraulic or electro-dynamic fatigue rigsInterpreting stress and strain through failure analysis – particularly fatigue theoriesParticipate in work planning and scheduling to ensure efficient use of laboratory resourcesWork closely with technicians to assure that engineering experimental data is complete and accurately documented SKILLS - FUNCTIONAL/TECHNICAL:Experimental testing experience (Vibration, Strain, Stress and Fatigue)Diesel engine, fuel systems, air handling, and controls knowledge is a plusSkills in experimental data analysis to correlate models SKILLS - TEAMWORK:Ability to work effectively both as an individual contributor and as a member of cross-functional teamsEffective communications skillsAbility to present data and engineering decisions in ways that is clear and easy to understandAbility to work in a team environment including customers SKILLS - LEADERSHIP:Manage multiple projects simultaneouslyPlan and carry out projectsDirect work of technicians and communicate with other teams in other geographical locationsRequired Work Location: Onsite with FlexibilityCompanyCummins is an equal opportunity employer. Our policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all qualified persons without regard to race, sex, color, disability, national origin, age, religion, union affiliation, sexual orientation, veteran status, citizenship, gender identity, or other status protected by law.
Apply Now