Opportunities in Hydroacoustics supporting Maritime Propulsion

Opportunities in Hydroacoustics supporting Maritime Propulsion

QinetiQ is growing - and it is a great time to be part of the community. As we enter new markets around the world, we need talented Scientists, Mathematicians and Engineers to join our Hydroacoustic team. You will probably have experience in Acoustics, Noise, Vibration, or Experimental Fluid Dynamics, but you may come from a background of Physics, Applied Mathematics, Measurement Engineering or Marine Engineering/Naval Architecture, but with a depth of knowledge about how to acoustics is applied in marine propulsion.

You will be part of a business that was named the Most Admired Aerospace & Defence Company in the Britain's Most Admired Companies 2021 study. You will also be joining a diverse, inclusive employer that is proud to provide a collaborative, open working environment. With our Adaptive approach, you will enjoy the work-life balance that suits you best, thanks to remote, hybrid and flexible working practices; but please bear in mind that, because of the nature of our business, fully remote working will not be an option.

We currently have opportunities in Hydroacoustics at our site at Haslar (Gosport). If you are interested in joining us - now or in the future - we would love to hear from you.

If your skills fit one of our opportunities, we shall be in contact. If we don't have a role that is right for you at the moment, we'll keep your CV on file for possible opportunities in the future.

What do our Applied (Hydro)Acoustic Physicists do?

Our team of Applied Acoustic Physicists are responsible for developing and maintaining predictive numerical tool that can predict the acoustic signature performance of marine propulsion systems. To do this we use a variety of computational tools including Computation Fluid Dynamics (CFD) type tools and general mathematical coding tools such as MATLAB. We develop and validate our prediction tools by undertaking a range of experimental measurements, usually at model scale, in unique hydroacoustic and hydrodynamic test facilities, which include cavitation tunnels and acoustic tanks. The tests include measurements of noise, vibration and turbulence and are undertaken using wide variety of measurement equipment including hydrophones, laser Doppler vibrometers and laser Doppler velocimeters. With these systems we gather measurement data with which to test and develop numerical prediction models. We then apply our models to full-scale platform designs and compare their performance against measurements from range measurements of real-life platforms. The validated predictive tools are then used by the team in the design process for new platforms.

These activities may include knowledge and skills in some of the following areas:

• Experimental and theoretical aero/hydroacoustics
• Acoustic noise and vibration measurements in air and water with transducers
• Laser Doppler measurements of turbulent flows
• Laser Doppler measurements of vibration
• Development of numerical models using MATLAB
• Use of numerical tools such as CFD, finite element and boundary element
• Design of test equipment, acoustic instrumentation and physical hydroacoustic models
• Signal processing including acoustic source imaging and modal analysis
• Acoustic data analysis and presentation
• Reporting and presentation of complex technical concepts

Relatively new to Hydroacoustics?

If you have a relevant degree in acoustics or some experience in acoustics, noise and vibration, then your talents may be a good match for our team. We recruit from a range of academic and professional backgrounds and if you have qualifications or experience in Science, Mathematics, Acoustical Engineering we would love to speak with you. You will be offered the opportunities to develop your depth and breadth of expertise and experience and set you on the path for advancement.

Opportunities for mid-career Hydroacoustic Engineers and Scientists

If you are a mid-career professional working in an associated industry, you will be applying your expertise right from day one. Whatever your specialism or background, you can expect ongoing development to help you excel and advance. This includes expert training and mentoring, with increased emphasis on self-development and on-the-job training.

Opportunities for highly experienced Hydroacoustic Engineers and Scientists

As a senior Applied Acoustic Physicist, you will already be a respected member of the acoustics community and can expect further specialist development (which may include conference attendance and paper presentation, for example), and targeted mentoring to develop specific technical skills. If you have senior management potential, we shall spot and nurture it. However, to progress to more senior roles, you'll need to be an active member of an appropriate professional body.

Our Fellowship scheme recognises and develops professionals with high-level, specialist technical expertise.

Key points

• We have practitioners at all levels up to and including internationally recognised individuals. Our blended approach to learning means you will have access to formal training, mentoring, assisted self-development, and on the job training.
• Excel, and your potential will be spotted. Our continuing professional development covers all career stages and levels of seniority.
• We support adaptive and flexible working although as a member of our Hydroacoustic team you will need to attend our Gosport site most working days and possibly deploy to trials sites in the UK or abroad on an occasional basis.
• The application domain is predominantly military naval platforms, but sometimes includes commercial maritime projects.
• It is a requirement of the role that candidates are prepared to undergo Developed Vetting security clearance should that be required.