Flight Mechanics Engineer

MTSI is seeking an experienced
Flight Mechanics Engineer
to support the development and analysis of an advanced air platform program. This role involves performing flight mechanics analyses, developing aerodynamic models, and supporting performance optimization of cutting-edge aerospace systems. The ideal candidate will have expertise in flight mechanics, aerodynamics, and dynamics modeling, contributing directly to the success of mission-critical DoD platforms.

Responsibilities

• Flight Mechanics Analysis:
• Conduct flight performance analyses, including stability and control, maneuverability, aerodynamic loads, and dynamic behavior of advanced air platforms.
• Develop and evaluate aerodynamic models for use in flight mechanics studies, focusing on air performance optimization across all mission profiles.
• Simulation and Modeling Support:
• Perform dynamic simulations using tools such as MATLAB/Simulink or other industry software to evaluate flight mechanics under varying conditions.
• Develop mathematical or computational models of aircraft systems to predict performance, response, and operational capability.
• System Integration and Optimization:
• Collaborate with systems engineers and avionics teams to integrate flight mechanics solutions with sensors, flight controls, and propulsion systems.
• Analyze and assess interdependencies between aerodynamic systems and broader subsystems to optimize overall performance.
• Testing and Validation:
• Design, execute, and analyze flight test procedures to validate models and ensure real-world performance aligns with predictions.
• Provide support for wind tunnel tests, prototype evaluations, and simulation-based validations.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Prepare technical reports, flight mechanics specifications, and performance summaries for program stakeholders.
• Interface with program managers, engineers, and customers to communicate flight mechanics results and provide recommendations for system improvements.
• Compliance and Standards:
• Ensure flight mechanics designs and analyses comply with program directives and DoD standards, including MIL-STD specifications.

Qualifications
Required

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field.
• 7+ years of experience in flight mechanics, aerodynamics, stability and control, or a related discipline.
• Proficiency in flight mechanics modeling tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Python, or similar platforms.
• Strong knowledge of aerodynamic principles, including lift, drag, thrust, and vehicle stability and control.
• Familiarity with testing environments like wind tunnel facilities, flight simulators, or prototype validation.
• Experience working with advanced air platforms such as UAVs, military aircraft, or high-performance aerospace systems.
• Must possess an active Top Secret clearance with eligibility for SCI.

Desired

• 12+ years of experience in flight mechanics, aerodynamics, stability and control, or a related discipline.
• Certifications validating expertise and technical skills in flight mechanics:
• CSRP (Certified Systems Research Professional) – For systems modeling and simulation proficiency.
• FEA Certification (Finite Element Analysis) – For aerodynamic load analysis and stress modeling.
• INCOSE Certified Systems Engineering Professional (CSEP): Demonstrates expertise in systems engineering for flight mechanics integration.
• Lean Six Sigma Certification: To optimize workflows and flight analysis processes.
• CompTIA Security+ or CISSP: Useful for modeling systems integrated with secure DoD environments.
• Familiarity with airworthiness certification standards (e.g., MIL-HDBK-516C).
• Experience with modern flight control systems and avionics integration.
• Knowledge of advanced propulsion systems and their impact on flight mechanics.