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Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Modelling Engineer

Employer
Defence Science and Technology Laboratory
Location
Salisbury, UK
Salary
Unspecified
Posting live until
23 Apr 2023

Job Details

Job summary

We are looking for an engineer who can specialise in finite element analysis and computer aided engineering for 3D modelling and simulations. The work will form part of multi-disciplinary teams bringing high fidelity virtual experimentation and concepts analysis capabilities to inform physical trials and experimentation in a defence research environment.  In particular, we require skills in ANSYS Mechanical, ANSYS Parametric Design Language (APDL) and Workbench Finite Element Analysis. Ideally, candidates will have working knowledge of other modelling tools such as COMSOL or NASTRAN.

The role requires a self-starter with degree level mechanical/aerospace/structural engineering or equivalent level of experience. This role has no line management responsibility, however, developing and maintaining high levels of technical competence will be required.

Dstl recognises the importance of diversity and inclusion as people from diverse backgrounds bring fresh ideas. We are committed to building an inclusive working environment in which each employee fulfils their potential and maximises their contribution.

We welcome all applicants and those from the LGBTQI community.

Job description

In this role you will:

  • Work as part of a team to deliver solutions to complex problems, incorporating experimental design and statistical analysis to validate modelling and simulation output with physical experiments;
  • Utilise modelling and simulation to support the development of novel technologies;
  • Undertake independent pieces of work with minimal guidance;
  • Ensure a personal commitment to continuing personal development in terms of developing own knowledge, skills and competencies;
  • Build networks across a range of technical areas in order to achieve outcomes.

Person specification

We are looking for someone who has:

  • An existing knowledge of ANSYS Mechanical, ANSYS Parametric Design Language (APDL) and Workbench Finite Element Analysis;
  • A good understanding of heat transfer phenomena and modelling heat transfer mechanisms;
  • The ability to verify and validate finite element models and ideally the ability to do use Mathcad Skills.

Essential

  • ANSYS Mechanical, ANSYS Parametric Design Language (APDL) and Workbench Finite Element Analysis;
  • Modelling and simulation of heat transfer (conduction, convection and radiation) phenomena;
  • Ability to verify and validate finite element models (i.e. addressing modelling warning and errors, including Class 3 errors);
  • Ability to verify and validate simulation results from first principles using hand calculations.

Desirable

  • Python, MATLAB, R or Excel VBA programming for data analytics.

Ability to develop formal experimental designs, including

  • statistical analysis and confidence in the comparison of virtual (simulated) and physical experiments;
  • Ability to interpret technical source information and incorporate this into model design;
  • Working within a multidisciplinary team.

Qualifications

The candidate for this post will ideally have a minimum 2:2 degree in Mechanical Engineering/Aerospace Engineering/Structural Engineering or equivalent level of experience. A candidate with the appropriate technical/professional experience will also be considered for this post. Possession of a higher research degree in a relevant field would be advantageous for this post but not essential.

Behaviours

We’ll assess you against these behaviours during the selection process:

  • Delivering at Pace;
  • Working Together;
  • Communicating and Influencing.

We only ask for evidence of these behaviours on your application form:

  • Communicating and Influencing.

Technical skills

We’ll assess you against these technical skills during the selection process:

  • Detail how your technical skills meet the essential and desirable criteria for this role.

Benefits

Dstl’s full range of great benefits can be found in the information pack which includes:

Financial: An excellent pension scheme starting from 26% employer contribution (find out more here). In Year Rewarding Achievement bonuses and thank you vouchers. Rental deposit scheme and cycle to work scheme.

Flexible working: Full flexibility working options include alternative working patterns, compressed hours, job shares and annualised hours. Remote working may be available dependent on role.

Flexible working hours: Ability to bank hours in a 12 month reference period including the ability to accrue and use 3 days per calendar month.

Annual leave: 25 days pro rata (rising to 30 after 5 years) plus 8 public holidays with the ability to buy/sell 5 additional days per annum.

Family: Maternity, adoption or shared parental leave of up to 26 weeks with full pay, an additional 13 weeks statutory pay and a further 13 weeks unpaid

Learning and Development: Dstl encourages and supports charterships, accreditations and provides employees access to fully funded apprenticeships up to level 7 (Masters Degree). Dstl will pay for 2 memberships with relevant bodies/institutions. Employees also have access to Civil Service Learning.

Facilities: Onsite parking, EV Charging points, restaurants, cafés and gyms.

The information pack can be found attached to the job specification on Civil Service Jobs.

Our Diversity Networks

We have a number of support networks to ensure all employees feel supported at work. These include the following:

  • Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity Network;
  • Race, Faith and Culture Network;
  • Parents and Carer Support Network;
  • Alternative Working Network;
  • Gender Equality Network;
  • New Starters Network;
  • Enabled Network, for people with visible and non-visible disabilities.

 

Company

DSTL image

The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) is the science and technology arm of the Ministry of Defence. As part of the UK Government we do sensitive and specialist work that cannot be done anywhere else. We’re dedicated to keeping the UK safe and secure by using world-leading science and technology. Our work has one aim – protecting lives. Our experts make innovative scientific advancements, sometimes with international impact.

Why work for us
At Dstl, we bring together the best people with the best ideas and apply science and technology in unexpected ways. Our position in defence brings strong links to the armed forces, giving us access and insight to our military personnel and their operational challenges. The solutions we deliver cover everything from long-term research and analysis, through to rapid development in support of current operations with the potential to save lives. Working with other government departments, universities and businesses, we develop battle-winning technologies that support UK military operations – now and into the future.

At Dstl, you’ll find a workforce of respected scientists and professionals who specialize in many different disciplines. We value and champion collaboration, impact and innovation, and we work with some of the most talented professionals and academics in the world. To achieve our goals, we promote and support the use of flexible working patterns to enable staff to enjoy a healthy work/life balance.

We’re always looking for the best technical and scientific minds who are looking for a career with a difference. You’ll need a relevant qualification, a flair for solving problems and a passion for new technologies. Above all, you must want to make a difference now and in the future.

Training and development
We offer an extensive range of technical and professional training that’s relevant for your career and your future ambitions, delivered both in-house and externally. We’ll support you with Chartership and accreditation, and fund up to two professional memberships for you each year.

What we are looking for
Launch your career at Dstl as a:

  • Graduate: if you join Dstl as a graduate you will put theory into practise, applying what you’ve learnt to the real-world problems that we’re solving right now. You will be contributing to important projects and supported by mentors and leading scientists.
  • Student: we have 12- or three-month internships available to experience what a career in science means.
  • Apprentice: we offer apprenticeships, up to degree level, giving you the chance to earn while you learn.

We have a variety of roles advertised on our website all year round as well as graduate and apprenticeship opportunities.


Locations
UK; Porton Down (Salisbury, Wiltshire), Portsdown West (Fareham, Hampshire)

Number of employees
4800

Positions recently recruited for
Graduate engineer, graduate scientist, graduate statistician, graduate operational researcher and analyst, graduate project manager, analysts, scientist, engineer, cyber, software

Desired degree disciplines/class
A STEM degree

Pre-requisites
UK national and eligibility to work in the UK (for security clearance purposes)

How to apply
Apply online at www.civilservicejobs.service.gov.uk and search for Dstl

Closing date
All year round. Graduate and apprenticeships recruitment every autumn/winter

Contact
Tel +44 (0)1980 950000
E-mail dstlrecruitment@dstl.gov.uk
www.gov.uk/government/organisations/defence-science-and-technology-laboratory

Company info
Website
Telephone
+44 (0)1980 618484
Location
Room G01 Building
5 Porton Down
Salisbury
SP4 0JQ
United Kingdom

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