Weapons Research Engineer

Location: Columbia Falls, MT

Job Objective

Plans and executes research activities on the various components of the firearms system, evaluates and records the test results, prepares world class technical reports, generates test plans, provides input for design and process improvements, innovates and solves technical problems. Meets required deadlines and achieves technical objectives. Interfaces with engineering, production, and research groups.

Qualifications

1. Minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering or related Engineering degree from an accredited university. Minimum of 3 years of experience required; firearms industry experience preferred, with a fundamental understanding of the engineering principles associated with internal and external ballistics. Other relevant operating experience in a research environment will be considered.

2. Proficient in use of computer aided design, drafting, SolidWorks, and metal working preferred.

3. Experience as a lead in formal research programs, understanding of building written testing protocols, test plans, gathering and reporting all data delivered for the individual tests. Statistical analysis and reporting of technical results.

4. Ability to read, analyze, and interpret technical procedures or governmental regulations. Ability to write reports, business correspondence, and procedure manuals. Ability to effectively present information and respond to questions from groups of managers and/or clients.

5. Ability to apply advanced mathematical concepts such as exponents, logarithms, and quadratic equations and to apply mathematical operations to such tasks as frequency distribution, determination of test reliability and validity, analysis of variance, correlation techniques, sampling theory, and factor analysis. Familiarity with solving differential equations and boundary value problems, preferably related to internal and external ballistics.

6. Demonstrated ability to solve practical problems and deal with a variety of concrete variables in situations where only limited standardization exists.

7. Proven ability to gather and analyze information skillfully and generate creative solutions while completing test projects on time and budget.

8. Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with customers and staff of PROOF.

9. Demonstrated firearms familiarity and competency in firearms safety.

Job Duties

1. Collects and generates ideas and hypotheses for research testing, develops and executes test plans for developmental and/or production firearms, and provides final reports.

2. Analyzes test data and reports to provide recommendations on product and process improvements.

3. Designs and coordinates fabrication of testing and test control fixtures and equipment and performs fixture and instrumentation validation and calibration.

4. Determines conditions under which tests are to be conducted and sequences and phases of test operations.

5. Directs and exercises control over operational, functional, and performance phases of tests.

6. Confers with scientific, engineering, and technical personnel to resolve testing problems such as product or system malfunctions, incomplete test data and data interpretation.

7. Develops or uses computer software and hardware to conduct tests on products and systems.

8. Utilizes modeling and simulation software to design and evaluate product and fixture changes.

9. Coordinates with the VP of Engineering to evaluate, analyze, and make recommendations on products, designs, and cost improvements to improve the competitive position of the company.

Work Environment

Primarily works indoors in an office/manufacturing plant setting. While performing the duties of this position, the employee is occasionally exposed to outside weather conditions and explosives. The noise level in the work environment is usually quiet in the office setting and moderate in the plant setting. Higher noise levels will be experienced in firearm test firing ranges while performing duties. Firearm safety is a critical aspect of the work environment at respective locations.

Physical Demands

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this position, the employee is regularly required to stand; use hands to finger, handle, or feel and reach with hands and arms. The employee is frequently required to walk. The employee must regularly lift and /or move up to 10 pounds, frequently lift and/or move up to 25 pounds and occasionally lift and/or move up to 50 pounds.

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