We are seeking a Senior Aerodynamics/CFD Engineer for our Boulder, Colorado location. This role can be remote with travel.
Responsibilities
- Design, loft and optimize components that affect the aircraft aerodynamics and outer mold line (OML).
- Build models, clean CAD geometry, and generate computational meshes to run CFD simulations that:
- Inform aircraft trade studies and configuration design decisions using appropriately fidelity levels.
- Support aerodynamic design across all phases, from concept development through certification.
- Develop and maintain high-fidelity aerodynamic databases for performance prediction, external-loads analysis, and real-time six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) simulations.
- Correlate and validate CFD results against simulations of varying fidelity (e.g. cross-code comparisons, wind-tunnel testing, and flight-test data). Iterate models as new data becomes available.
- Post-process and analyze simulation and test data. Summarize results in reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, as needed.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams (performance, acoustics, loads, stability and control, control laws, systems, and instrumentation) to define simulation parameters and requirements, ensure model accuracy, and provide CFD expertise to guide design decisions.
- Develop and improve the software methods, tools, and workflows that support aerodynamic modeling.
- Support verification and validation activities that rely on model outputs (e.g., failure hazard assessments (FHAs)).
- Train and mentor junior aerodynamics engineers.
Requirements
Required Qualifications
- B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in aeronautical engineering or a related field
- 15+ years of experience with a B.S., 10+ years with an M.S., or 8+ years with a Ph.D. modeling subsonic, fixed-wing aerodynamics using CFD and validating results with wind-tunnel experiments
- Expert-level knowledge of subsonic, fixed-wing aerodynamics; strong theoretical background in fluid mechanics and CFD
- Experience with surface parameterization and aerodynamic shape optimization
- Experience in turbulence modeling, boundary-layer transition, unsteady aerodynamics, and interference aerodynamics
- Strong competence running NASA OVERFLOW and/or FUN3D CFD software (RANS flow solvers)
- Proficiency in 3D surface and volume meshing using structured overset meshes and/or unstructured tetrahedral/hexahedral meshes
- Proficiency in lofting aircraft in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA, NX) and applying CAD cleanup tools
- Proficiency in Python and/or MATLAB scripting
- Experience working with external partners and suppliers on development projects
- Familiarity with software development best practices and version control (Git)
- Good knowledge of high-performance computing (HPC) hardware and software
- Strong technical, written, and verbal communication skills
- Ability to work well both collaboratively and independently
- Experience in a fast-paced design environment
Preferred Qualifications
- Aerodynamics design experience on a large transport/freighter/cargo category aircraft
- Familiarity with aircraft certification standards (14 CFR Part 25 or Part 23), preferably having been through an airplane development and certification program
- Familiarity with cloud computing platforms
- Experience planning and executing wind-tunnel test campaigns to validate CFD and aerodynamic predictions
- Proficiency in MATLAB
- Experience mentoring junior aerodynamics engineers in CFD
Benefits
- Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus mental health support with 24/7 counseling, virtual therapy, and the Calm app.
- Employer-paid life and disability insurance, voluntary critical illness and accident coverage, and a 401(k)-retirement savings plan.
- Health Care FSA and HSA options with tax advantages and rollover features.
- Employees working from Boulder office enjoy complimentary lunch on any day they work onsite.
- Additional benefits include Employee Assistance Program, caregiver support, discounted fitness memberships, educational assistance, training programs, adoption assistance, commuter benefits, and exclusive discounts through Perks at Work.
