Senior Aerodynamics Engineer

Job Title: Senior Aerodynamics Engineer
Job Location: [Insert Location]
Job Type: Full-Time
Department: Engineering
Job Overview:
We are seeking an experienced and highly skilled Senior Aerodynamics Engineer to join our client in Los Angeles. This role involves applying advanced aerodynamic principles to design, analyze, and optimize the performance of aircraft or spacecraft. The Senior Aerodynamics Engineer will work closely with cross-functional teams to enhance the aerodynamic efficiency, stability, and safety of our products. If you're passionate about pushing the boundaries of aerospace design and have a strong background in fluid dynamics and aerodynamics, we want you on our team.
Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of aerodynamic components and systems for [aircraft, spacecraft, or related systems].
• Conduct detailed aerodynamic simulations and analyses using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools and other modeling techniques to predict and improve vehicle performance.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including propulsion, structures, and flight control engineers, to ensure seamless integration of aerodynamic designs with other subsystems.
• Conduct wind tunnel tests, flight tests, and other experimental methods to validate aerodynamic models and assumptions.
• Develop and optimize aerodynamic shapes, considering factors such as drag reduction, lift generation, stability, and control.
• Analyze and interpret aerodynamic data to provide actionable insights and recommendations for improving vehicle efficiency, performance, and safety.
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards, regulations, and safety requirements.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership, guidance, and support throughout the design, analysis, and testing phases.
• Keep up with the latest advancements in aerodynamics, computational methods, and industry trends to apply innovative solutions to current and future projects.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and documentation to communicate findings, design rationale, and performance analyses to internal stakeholders and external clients.
• Support project management efforts by contributing to schedules, risk assessments, and project milestones.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field (Master’s or PhD preferred).
• Extensive experience (7+ years) in aerodynamics, fluid dynamics, or related aerospace engineering fields.
• Expertise in CFD, aerodynamics testing, and wind tunnel testing for [aerospace or related applications].
• Proficiency in computational tools such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, STAR-CCM+, or similar CFD software for aerodynamic simulations and modeling.
• Strong understanding of aircraft or spacecraft aerodynamics, including lift, drag, stability, control, and boundary layer theory.
• Experience in high-fidelity aerodynamic modeling, design optimization, and performance analysis.
• Solid knowledge of experimental aerodynamics techniques, including wind tunnel testing, flight testing, and data analysis.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills with the ability to apply theoretical knowledge to practical, real-world engineering challenges.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to present complex technical concepts to a wide audience.
• Proven ability to work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary team environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the design and optimization of [specific vehicle types, such as supersonic aircraft, UAVs, or space vehicles].
• Familiarity with multi-disciplinary optimization (MDO) techniques and aero-structural analysis.
• Knowledge of flight mechanics, propulsion, or flight control systems as they relate to aerodynamics.
• Experience with aerodynamics-related software tools for structural analysis, such as NASTRAN, ABAQUS, or similar.
• Familiarity with industry standards and regulatory requirements related to aerodynamics and flight safety (e.g., FAR, JAR, DO-178C).
• Experience with data visualization tools and programming languages like Python, MATLAB, or similar for data analysis and automation.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Opportunities for career growth and professional development
• Collaborative, innovative, and dynamic work environment
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement savings plan with company matching
• Paid time off and holidays