Acoustic Engineer

Job description: Job ID: 114933 The Leonardo DRS Naval Power Systems business is a trusted provider of innovative naval gas and hybrid power systems, control technology and support solutions for the U.S. Navy and navies around the world. Job Summary DRS Naval Power Systems is seeking an experienced Acoustic Engineer to serve as a technical subject matter expert in the acoustic design, analysis, and validation of high-performance rotating equipment and associated static structures. This onsite role is based in Fitchburg, MA . In this role, you will make direct technical contributions across multiple product lines, including steam turbines, large electric motors, integral blowers/compressors, and other critical propulsion-system components. You will help solve complex acoustic and vibration challenges that impact the performance, reliability, and mission readiness of naval equipment. The ideal candidate brings strong mechanical engineering fundamentals, deep expertise in airborne and structure-borne acoustics, and a practical understanding of the design considerations associated with large rotating machinery. Job Responsibilities You will work both independently and as part of an integrated, multidisciplinary project team. Using sound engineering judgment and discretion, you will address complex technical challenges, guide acoustic design decisions, and mentor junior engineers. Key responsibilities include executing acoustic analyses of large rotating assemblies, including: Structure-borne noise Airborne noise Narrow-band and octave-band analysis Noise transmission-path analysis Noise and vibration mitigation methods You will apply a range of modeling and analysis tools, including: Empirical methods Finite Element Analysis for low-frequency structure-borne and airborne noise Boundary Element Method for low-frequency airborne noise Statistical Energy Analysis for high-frequency noise Success in this role requires the ability to break down complicated engineering problems and develop innovative, practical solutions that meet program requirements without introducing unnecessary weight, cost, schedule impact, or risk. You will clearly document and communicate technical and programmatic information—both verbally and in writing—to technical and non-technical audiences, including project teams, program leadership, executive management, and customers. Regular customer interaction is expected, and you will confidently represent DRS with U.S. Navy and other customer stakeholders. You will also review, analyze, and communicate project milestones; monitor technical progress; and provide accurate estimates to complete analyses and engineering projects. Qualifications Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited four-year college or university in Mechanical Engineering or a related technical discipline At least two years of experience evaluating the acoustic performance of turbomachinery assemblies, large rotating machinery such as motors and generators, or similar equipment Ability to perform Finite Element and Statistical Energy Analyses Experience executing acoustic testing and model validation, including sound intensity measurements, modal analysis, and data acquisition using accelerometers, microphones, strain gauges, and related instrumentation Hands-on experience evaluating model and physical-test data to distinguish valid versus invalid data, forced versus resonant behavior, and background versus operational noise Experience analyzing acoustic sources generated by flow-induced compressible fluids and related system elements Experience using MATLAB for data analysis, modeling, and/or development of application-specific analysis tools U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a DOD security clearance. Other Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting the development of rotating machinery and associated manufacturing drawings Familiarity with data acquisition systems for acoustic testing and digital signal processing Experience with data post-processing, optimization, and analysis Practical knowledge and application of statistical analysis methods Knowledge of MIL-STD-740-1, MIL-STD-740-2, and MIL-STD-1474 Familiarity with CAD tools, preferably Siemens NX and/or SolidWorks Experience using program management tools such as MS Project and/or Agile project-management tools such as Jira Experience executing engineering projects for the U.S. military Active security clearance U.S. Citizenship required. This position may require an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment. The salary range for this position is $79,919 - $114,285/year. This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate’s qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage. Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.