Principal Aerodynamicist

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated aerodynamicist to join our team. As a principal aerodynamicist, you will be the subject matter expert for the design, analysis, and optimization of aerodynamic systems across a range of projects. You will work closely with our engineering team to develop innovative solutions, enhance the performance of our products, and improve our aerodynamic design processes.

Essential Functions

• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate aerodynamic solutions into overall product designs.
• Analyzing aerodynamic loads, performance, stability, and control using empirical methods, hand calculations, vortex lattice codes, CFD, and flight test data
• Perform wind tunnel testing and data analysis to validate computational predictions.
• Develop methodologies and tools to streamline the aerodynamic design process.
• Supporting flight test planning, execution, data reduction, and aircraft modifications
• Stay current with advancements in aerodynamics research and technology.
• Develop aerodynamic design guides and toolsets that can be used by other engineers.
• Develop air vehicle conceptual designs in tandem with engineering group based off of key performance parameters.
• Perform other duties as required.

Standard Essential Functions

• Regular and reliable attendance on a full-time basis [or in accordance with posted schedule].
• Responsible for exhibiting professional behavior with both internal and external business associates that reflects positively on the company and is consistent with the company's policies and practices.
• Embodies AEVEX's cultural values and aligns daily actions with department goals and company culture.

Qualifications and Competencies

• Subject matter expert level understanding of fluid dynamic technical principles, theories, concepts, design methods, & analysis tools.

• Proficiency in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) toolsets such as ANSYS Fluent or STAR-CCM+.

• Familiarity with CAD software (e.g., Solidworks) for geometric modeling and mesh generation.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

• Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.

• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills

• Ability to work with multiple engineering disciplines on an aggressive schedule.

• Ability to be flexible in various work scenarios to adjust priorities needed to meet evolving requirements and challenges.

• Demonstrative ability to be proactive and take initiate during day-to-day tasks

• Ability work independently, confidently making decisions to guide other towards project goals

Education / Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, or related field.

• Master's or PhD preferred.

Experience

• 8+ years of industry experience.

• Proven experience in aerodynamic analysis and design, preferably in aerospace industry.

• Rapid prototyping experience.

• Defense industry experience is a plus

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. While performing the duties the employee is:

Frequently required to sit, and to reach to use computers and other office equipment

For the purpose of this summary, occasionally is used to represent up to 1/3 of the time given to the work day, frequently represents 1/3 to 2/3 of the time and constantly represents 2/3 or more of the time.

Security Clearance

• Ability to obtain/maintain a Top-Secret DoD clearance, U.S. Citizenship required.

About AEVEX Aerospace

AEVEX Aerospace, headquartered in Solana Beach, California, supports the U.S. national security mission and partner nation needs around the world by providing full-spectrum aviation, remote sensing, and analysis solutions. The company's capabilities include custom design and engineering; rapid prototyping; sensor integration and sustainment; aircraft modification and certification; flight test instrumentation and support; mission operations service; advanced intelligence data processing, exploitation, and dissemination solutions; and tailored hardware and software mission-system tools. AEVEX uses agile and customized approaches to rapidly define, develop, and deliver specialized solutions for airborne special mission needs for the U.S. Government, partner nations, and commercial businesses. AEVEX has major offices in California, Florida, North Carolina, Ohio, and Virginia.

AEVEX provides a full suite of comprehensive benefits, including a 401(k)-retirement plan, comprehensive Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability and Life insurance group coverage with a portion of the premiums paid by the company, professional development funds, and an Employee Assistance Plan (EAP) with counseling, legal help, child and elder care support, among other benefits.

Equal Employment Opportunity:

AEVEX Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants without regard to race, religious creed, color, sex (including pregnancy, breast feeding and related medical conditions), gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, military and veteran status, marital status, age, protected medical condition, genetic information, physical disability, mental disability, or any other protected status in accordance with all applicable federal, state and local laws.