Pratt Miller is a product development company in motorsports, defense, and mobility industries providing clients with product engineering and low-volume production solutions. Our range of research & development, engineering, prototype manufacturing, test & validation, and low-rate production capability help our customers bring their high-quality products to market faster.
OVERVIEW: This position, which is part of the Aerodynamic department within Pratt Miller, is to help build, prep, and test an aerodynamic model (full scale and/or model scale) in various wind tunnels. The position will be based at the New Hudson, MI Pratt Miller location. The candidate will collaborate with program managers, test/design engineers, and senior wind tunnel specialists to obtain the required data set by Pratt Miller customers. Travel will be required to various wind tunnels to maintain and install test parts on an active aerodynamic model.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS & SKILLS:
Typical responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:
- Knowledge of hand tools, machine shop and shop equipment
- Knowledge of operational full scale and model scale wind tunnel models
- Knowledge of wind tunnel operations and safety procedures
- Ability to follow detailed test plans for wind tunnel tests
- Able and willing to travel to international and domestic destinations
- Ability to complete tasks with consistent/repeatable performance
- Ability to measure and record detailed data in and outside the wind tunnel
- Ability to proficiently use Microsoft Office 365 products (email, Excel, Word, etc.) and navigate through typical Windows folder structure
- Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
- Ability to work independently within various SOP and follow detailed instruction
- Able to perform and thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Work safely to comply with all business expectations
EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
- Minimum of a High School diploma or GED equivalent
- 1-3 years of experience with aero departments and/or wind tunnel models
- 2-5 years of professional experience with motorsports or general vehicles
DESIRED SPECIALIZED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:
- Knowledge of pressure tapping and basic electronics found on wind tunnel models
- Ability to work with both entry level and senior level wind tunnel specialist in various capacities including passing down learned skills and knowledge
- Knowledge of mechanical systems in vehicles
- Knowledge of Rapid Prototyped materials and adhesives
- Knowledge of basic composite layups
- Knowledge and ability of prepping model part to final A-surface ready for the tunnel test
- Basic knowledge of Aerodynamics
- Knowledge of Engineering drawings and assembly drawings
PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
- Ability to lift 40 lbs. and stand most of the day when necessary
- Average 2 – 5 days per month of travel to wind tunnels
- Ability to work long hours when preparing for or at the wind tunnel
- Includes bending and kneeling during model changes
EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:
- Day shift with flex start time of 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM M-F
- Must be flexible with work schedule to accommodate fixed deadlines with sometimes working Saturday and/or Sunday
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: In addition to the responsibilities mentioned above, the ideal candidate must possess but not limited to all the following:
- Ability to work in professional team-like environment
- Attention to time management
- Ability to communicate on various platforms (TEAMS, email, text message, phone calls)
- Must have reliable transportation
- Must adhere to work schedule with reliable attendance
- Strong work ethic and pride in workmanship
Pratt Miller is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.