About the Role
This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to the advancement of cutting-edge thermal and process systems in a dynamic team environment.
As a Senior Research Engineer, you will play a key role in the design, development, and delivery of advanced high-temperature systems, working on high-impact projects involving major industrial partners and research collaborators. You will apply your expertise in mechanical systems, systems control, and/or thermal process management to tackle technically challenging problems and deliver practical, scalable solutions.
Key Responsibilities
* Leading and overseeing the development and execution of experimental and process plant projects, ensuring timely delivery within scope.
* Acting as a trusted advisor and primary point of contact for clients, fostering strong relationships and effective communication throughout the project lifecycle.
* Driving business development by identifying opportunities and engaging with key stakeholders.
* Developing experimental test apparatus and processing plant designs, with a particular focus on high-temperature applications.
* Designing, prototyping, and implementing mechanical and automated components and systems.
* Leading commissioning activities and overseeing onsite operations as needed.
* Utilising common engineering design tools, such as CAD software, and applying computational methods and analysis tools, including finite element analysis (FEA), to optimise designs.
* Providing leadership and supervision to engineering staff, ensuring research designs are implemented accurately and that experiments are executed efficiently.
About the Team
The Solar Thermal Engineering team is a multi-disciplinary group of scientists, engineers, and economists working at the forefront of renewable energy. Based in Newcastle, the team is focused on solving complex industry challenges, developing new technologies to accelerate the transition to clean energy, and creating lasting impact for Australian industry and communities.
What We Offer
* A fast-paced and varied role well-suited to someone who thrives in collaborative environments and is motivated to apply their skills for real-world change.
* Ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance your skills and expertise.
* Flexible work arrangements to support work-life balance.
* Access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment.
Requirements
To be successful in this role, you will need:
* A tertiary degree or equivalent technical experience in a relevant engineering field, such as Mechanical, Chemical, Mechatronics, or related discipline.
* Significant demonstrated experience in systems control designing, commissioning, and onsite operations.
* Excellent written and oral communication skills, evidenced by high-level reporting, presentation, and negotiation abilities, and the capacity to identify and influence critical stakeholders to gain support for contentious proposals/ideas.
* Demonstrated expertise in developing prototype test setups and/or process plant systems, and experience in designing control systems (e.g., heliostats) and/or high-temperature process applications.
* Proficiency with CAD software and digital simulation, including FEA and/or CFD.
* Demonstrated experience in managing complex engineering projects, from planning and development through to successful delivery.
* Strong leadership abilities, with proven ability to supervise and develop engineering teams.
* Strong organisational abilities, with keen attention to detail and the capacity to manage multiple projects simultaneously.