DESCRIPTION

We are looking for a talented Acoustic Systems Technical Specialist to join our team specializing in Engineering at our Fridley, MN office.

Job Summary:

This applied science position conducts experiments and/or analysis via commercial and in-house tools to determine acoustic performance of components and systems. The individual evaluates components and systems using experimental and/or analytical methods and provides improvement recommendations if needed. The results from the experiments and analytical tools are used to determine the validity of the design to meet the customer requirements. Design recommendations are then provided as needed.

In this role, you will make an impact in the following ways:

• Noise and Acoustics: You'll determine the acoustic behavior of components and systems through numerical modeling and physical measurements. This includes evaluating air and structure-borne noise, sound power levels, sound quality, flexible body motion, and natural frequencies. Your conclusions will influence design decisions for both internal and external customers.
• Statistical Methods: You'll analyze technical data using descriptive statistics, probability distributions, graphical analysis, and statistical inference. This involves modeling relationships between variables using analysis of variance, regression, and design of experiments to make rigorous, data-based decisions.
• Product Testing: You'll select appropriate equipment and techniques to operate products and record operational data in a testing environment. This is often part of a product verification or validation plan. You'll evaluate the quality and validity of measurement data and analyze test results to characterize product capabilities in alignment with engineering requirements.
• Modeling and Simulation: You'll use computational tools and methods to predict the capability of a product's function relative to its system, sub-system, and component level requirements. This will impact product design decisions.
• Test System Design: You'll interpret test equipment specifications from standards or customer requirements, select and integrate appropriate equipment, instrumentation, and software to control boundary conditions and collect measurement data. You'll assess the capability of lab equipment against requirements and support infrastructure.
• Problem Solving: You'll solve product problems using a process that protects the customer. This involves determining the assignable cause, implementing robust, data-based solutions, and identifying systemic root causes to prevent problem recurrence.
• Building Networks: You'll build effective formal and informal relationship networks inside and outside the organization. This will support collaboration and the achievement of organizational goals.
• Effective Communication: You'll develop and deliver multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences. This ensures clarity and effective information sharing.

• Collaboration and Negotiation: Obtain input and negotiate with various groups (Product Development, Validation, Design, and Functional Discipline) to deliver key acoustics performance parameters.
• Acoustical Design Decisions: Make decisions regarding materials, processing, and geometry that impact the acoustic performance of components and systems.
• Testing and Measurement: Apply and improve testing, measurement, and analytical methods to determine the acoustic performance of components and systems.
• Analytical Methods Proficiency : Utilize analytical methods such as BEM (Boundary Element Method), FEM (Finite Element Method), and standard experimental measurement processes for high-confidence decision making.
• Project Leadership: Provide independent leadership for smaller projects or complex components, products, systems, or services, with full accountability to the project team.
• Process and System Development: Independently execute and develop work processes and systems, contributing to technology or product knowledge.
• Team Coordination and Knowledge Transfer: Coordinate and direct work among technicians and temporary student employees, and assist in transferring knowledge to less experienced engineers.
• Technical Guidance and Specialization: Provide support and guidance to influence technical direction within a project team, and operate as a recognized specialist in a specific discipline or product area.

• College, university, or equivalent Bachelor's degree in Engineering or appropriate STEM field is required.
• Post-graduate (Master's) degree relevant to this discipline area may be required for select roles.
• This position may require licensing for compliance with export controls or sanctions regulations.

• Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Acoustics, Mechanical Engineering, or related field with a strong focus on acoustics, noise control, or vibrations.
• 5-10 years of experience in acoustics engineering, specifically in industrial or manufacturing settings, with a background in noise reduction techniques and sound measurement.
• Proficiency in sound power measurement and analysis tools (e.g., Bruel & Kjaer, LMS Test.Lab) and knowledge of ISO 3744/3745 standards.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to innovate and develop novel acoustic solutions in high-noise industrial environments.
• Nice-to-Have Skills and Experience
• Experience with predictive acoustic simulation software such as SimCenter 3D, SIDLAB, VA-One or SoundPLAN for early-stage design and optimization.
• Background in IC Engine acoustics or power systems to provide specialized insight into noise sources and mitigation strategies unique to generator systems.
• Nice to have Hemi-Anechoic experience.
• Designing mufflers and any generator set acoustic experience would be a plus.