Senior Computational Electromagnetics Scientist

Applied Research Associates, Inc. (ARA) is seeking a driven and talented Senior Computational Scientist, to conduct research in the modeling of and simulation of advanced and complex systems spanning the fields of computational electromagnetics, acoustics and physics.  This position will be located at Applied Research Associate's office in Dayton, OH. A demonstrated background with 6+ years' experience in the development of Computational Electromagnetics Software – including Finite Element Methods, Integral Equations and Accelerated Numerical Solution schemes such as Fast Multipole Methods, Adaptive Cross Approximations, etc. In addition, the candidate must have extensive familiarity developing direct and iterative solvers for matrix systems representing linear equations in the several millions of unknowns.

The Senior CEM Scientist will lead a multidisciplinary team of experts in CEM, AI/ML, and software engineering. This hands‑on technical leader will advance ARA’s capabilities, mentor and upskill junior engineers and scientists, and help transition emerging research in CEM and ML‑based surrogates into operational, real‑world solutions. The ideal candidate combines deep technical expertise with strong leadership, communication, and program development skills.  S/he will leverage all extant knowledge and state of the art, including but not limited, to AI/ML techniques to enable ARA to lead the industry in the development of solutions to problems hitherto untenable. The candidate is also encouraged to lead R&D business development activities, including developing PoCs, authoring proposals, RFI responses and opportunity initiation.

Extensive programming proficiency in C/C++, Python, and/or FORTRAN is required. Deep working familiarity with source code version control tools such as Git, continuous software integration such as GitLab and the Linux (or other nix-based) operating systems is required.

What you’ll do as a Senior CEM Scientist:

• Lead and participate in the development of Advanced Computational Solutions to complex physical problems.
• Develop software algorithms and tools to solve problems the interaction of electromagnetic energy with complex media.
• Research and develop the next generation of tools in Computational Electromagnetics, Acoustics and Fluid Dynamics.
• Research and Develop AI/ML based techniques to extend the reach of traditional computational tools and capabilities.
• Work with a unique group of highly skilled and experienced mathematicians, physicists, RF/antennas engineers, and computer scientists to solve complex, large-scale computational problems.

Senior EM Analyst Requirements:

• US citizen with the ability to receive and maintain a US Security clearance at SECRET or higher
• D. in Electrical Engineering or related field with a specialization in Computational Science and/or Engineering.
• 6+ years of experience in Computational Modeling and Simulation of complex physical phenomena.
• Demonstrated success developing and deploying high-performance CEM software
• Proven ability to write and contribute to winning technical proposals
• Strong technical communication skills for both team leadership and business development
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate across diverse teams with demonstrated experience providing technical leadership and directing research teams or projects
• Ability to manage and motivate individuals with a range of personality types
• A growth mindset and enthusiasm for continuous learning

Senior EM Analyst Preferences:

• Experience developing AI/MLbased reduced order models or surrogate models
• Working knowledge of EM shape optimization and materials optimization
• Expertise in radar signal processing

Applied Research Associates, Inc. is an employee-owned international research and engineering company recognized for providing technically superior solutions to complex and challenging problems in the physical sciences. The company, founded in Albuquerque, NM, in 1979, currently employs over 1800 professionals. ARA offices throughout the United States and Canada provide a broad range of technical expertise in defense technologies, civil technologies, computer software and simulation, systems analysis, environmental technologies, and testing and measurement. The corporation also provides sophisticated technical products for environmental site characterization, pavement analysis, and robotics.

ARA has great benefits, such as:

• 401-K Retirement with employer matching contribution
• Employee Stock Ownership Plan
• Various insurance options including Flexible Spending Plan and a Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Paid leave and holidays.
• Great place to continue learning and expand your skill set.
• Great work-life balance.

At ARA, employees are our greatest assets. The corporation realizes that employee ownership spawns greater creativity and initiative along with higher performance and customer satisfaction levels. ARA gives its employees the tools, training, and opportunities to take more active roles as owners. The culture is challenging; innovation and experimentation are the norm. Employees are eligible for contributions which not only add to the company’s success, but also their own through the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The motto, “Engineering and Science for Fun and Profit” sums up the ARA experience. For additional information and an opportunity to join this unique workplace, please visit our website at www.ara.com.

Please apply at www.careers.ara.com for the Senior Computational Electromagnetics Scientist position, Requisition #SENIO010112.