Baltimore Aircoil Company is seeking a Thermal Test Engineer as a member of the Thermal Testing Group. This engineer is charged with developing scalable thermal test plans for BAC’s global product lines to support thermal modeling, regulatory testing, and new product introduction (NPI) initiatives. The position requires a background in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics and heat transfer. The role is largely independent with direction provided as needed for unusual or complex problems. The individual is considered a key technical subject matter contributor with a need to interact with other global engineering groups and occasionally groups outside of global engineering.
NATURE & SCOPE
Reports to the Thermal Testing Lead, Thermal Testing Group.
PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES
Perform or oversee prototype testing and data reduction. Take initiative to evaluate prototype behavior to identify deficiencies and potential for performance enhancement.
Under guidance and supervision, accurately interpolate test data and correlate it to theoretical models. Assist to develop performance rating programs.
Support innovation to identify opportunities for improving thermal performance through performance concept testing and data analysis. Provide analysis and recommendations on concept behavior and enhancement.
Lead efforts to conduct thermal certification tests, including scheduling, selection of test units, and co-ordinate certification tester and lab activities.
Review existing lab processes and technical sub-routines to improve the efficiency and quality of data collection and analysis. Assist to schedule and plan test matrix to minimize prototype testing burdens while providing enough data to validate theoretical model and/or innovation concept.
Prepares reports on complex projects. Make presentations at all levels of organization. Effectively communicates with both internal and external personnel.
KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
Ability to work independently and with others on teams to understand and translate design and process engineering requirements into thermal test plans and thermal models.
Understanding of HVAC/refrigeration systems and components preferred.
Education: Bachelors degree in Mechanical or Chemical Engineering. Emphasis or experience in heat and mass transfer, fluid mechanics, psychrometrics, and thermodynamics required. Additional graduate degree or P.E. is a plus.
Good scientific and engineering programming skills. Proficient with Microsoft Excel VBA programming and/or other widely used engineering computation software. Ability to work with CAD software.
High level of competence with experimental work and laboratory testing. Good knowledge of pressure, temperature, flow, and velocity measurements. Familiar with relevant instrumentation and its operating principles. Familiarity with data acquisition systems, flow sizing, and fan characteristics is a plus. 1-2 years experience in HVAC and refrigeration testing is a plus.
Knowledge of the concept of test uncertainty and measurement error accumulation.
Independently applies theory and principles to engineering practice. Strong analysis and problem-solving ability.
Inquisitive, self-motivated, dedicated and detail-oriented with excellent follow-through skills.
Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills.
ADDITIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Travel as needed to regional manufacturing facilities, test laboratories, job sites, technical conferences, industry association meetings, etc.
WORKING CONDITIONS
Working hours are the standard BAC 40 hours per week (8:30am-5:00pm with flexible start/finish times allowed).
Travel, both domestically and internationally, can be up to 10% of the time.
Occasional evening/weekend hours required, although the work can often be done from home with the use of a portable computer and a VPN connection.
Primarily sedentary activity in the office will be experienced; however, periodic travel to BAC manufacturing facilities with mechanical assembly (medium work) and lifting being required.
Must have close visual acuity to work with computer systems and virtual models
Will typically be subjected to only indoor conditions; however on occasional trips to BAC manufacturing facilities, test laboratories, and job sites, the individual may experience heat, cold, humidity, and noise.
