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Aerodynamic Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hermeus

Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$91.80K - $140.25K/yr

Familiarity with aerodynamic design and analysis techniques for high-speed flight. * Solid programming skills (Python, MATLAB, etc.) for data analysis and modeling. * Effective communication skills ...

Hermeus

Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$91.80K - $140.25K/yr

Familiarity with aerodynamic design and analysis techniques for high-speed flight. * Solid programming skills (Python, MATLAB, etc.) for data analysis and modeling. * Effective communication skills ...

Cirrus Aircraft

Aerodynamic Engineer II

Phoenix, AZ · On-site

$79.54K - $119.31K/yr

Job Summary The Aerodynamics Engineer works closely with the Advanced Design & Development group to support data reduction, analysis, and design activities for both existing and conceptual aircraft.

Cirrus Aircraft

Aerodynamic Engineer II

Duluth, MN · On-site

$38.24 - $57.36/hr

Job Summary The Aerodynamics Engineer works closely with the Advanced Design & Development group to support data reduction, analysis, and design activities for both existing and conceptual aircraft.

Cirrus Aircraft

Aerodynamic Engineer II

Duluth, MN · On-site

$79.54K - $119.31K/yr

Job Summary The Aerodynamics Engineer works closely with the Advanced Design & Development group to support data reduction, analysis, and design activities for both existing and conceptual aircraft.

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How much do aerodynamic design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of May 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerodynamic design engineer in the United States is $14.59, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.46 and $14.90 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerodynamic Design Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerodynamic Design Engineer, you need a solid background in fluid dynamics, mechanical or aerospace engineering, and typically a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, wind tunnel testing, and CAD tools is essential, and certifications such as Professional Engineer (PE) can be advantageous. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective teamwork are valuable soft skills that help address complex design challenges. Mastery of these skills ensures the creation of efficient, safe, and innovative aerodynamic solutions vital to competitive product development in aerospace and automotive industries.

What are some common challenges faced by Aerodynamic Design Engineers when collaborating with cross-functional teams?

Aerodynamic Design Engineers frequently collaborate with teams such as structural engineers, manufacturing, and testing crews, which can pose challenges in aligning priorities and balancing design trade-offs. For example, an optimal aerodynamic shape might conflict with manufacturability or structural integrity requirements. Effective communication, flexibility, and a strong understanding of interdisciplinary constraints are key to finding solutions that satisfy all stakeholders. Being proactive in early-stage discussions and using simulation tools to present data-driven options can help mitigate potential conflicts and streamline the design process.

What does an Aerodynamic Design Engineer do?

An Aerodynamic Design Engineer is responsible for analyzing, designing, and optimizing the shape and features of vehicles, aircraft, or other objects to improve their aerodynamic performance. They use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and wind tunnel testing to reduce drag, increase efficiency, and ensure stability during motion. Their work is crucial in industries like aerospace, automotive, and motorsports, where minimizing air resistance and maximizing speed or fuel economy is essential.

What is the difference between Aerodynamic Design Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAerodynamic Design EngineerMechanical Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Aeronautical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering
Work EnvironmentDesigning airflow for aircraft, vehicles, or turbinesDesigning mechanical systems across various industries
Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, sports equipmentManufacturing, automotive, energy, robotics
Common Search/ComparisonYesNo

While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals and similar credentials, Aerodynamic Design Engineers focus specifically on airflow and fluid dynamics in aerospace and automotive contexts. Mechanical Engineers have a broader scope, working on mechanical systems across multiple industries. The key difference lies in specialization: aerodynamic design versus general mechanical systems.

More about Aerodynamic Design Engineer jobs
What states have the most Aerodynamic Design Engineer jobs? States with the most job openings for Aerodynamic Design Engineer jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Aerodynamic Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aerodynamic Design Engineer jobs are:
Aerodynamic Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerodynamic Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, and 99% Full Time. Highlights an 93% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,337 per year, or $14.6 per hour.
Senior Principal Steam Turbine Aerodynamic Engineer

Senior Principal Steam Turbine Aerodynamic Engineer

Leonardo DRS

Fitchburg, MA • On-site

$143.91K - $223.42K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago

Leonardo DRS rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 50 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

104th of 511 rated manufacturers

Job description

Job ID: 112499
The Leonardo DRS Naval Power Systems business is a trusted provider of innovative naval gas and hybrid power systems, control technology and support solutions for the U.S. Navy and navies around the world.
Job Summary
Serve as the subject matter expert for aerodynamic design of the flow paths for steam turbines. Influence the shaping of nozzle partitions and blade (bucket) profiles to enable optimal, stable flow.
Job Responsibilities
Provide direct contributor work for the aerodynamic design considerations inclusive of:
  • Nozzles and bucket cascades
  • 3D optimized latter stages buckets with high degrees of reaction
  • Exhaust plenums
  • Valves/Inlet flow passages
  • Seals and Packing Leakage

Balance the optimal aerodynamic design with other working disciplines:
  • Compromise between aero performance and mechanical engineering's requirements informed by stress analysis
  • Compromise between aero performance and acoustic engineer's constraints

Qualifications
Priority Skills, Experience, & Knowledge
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or related technical field with a minimum of 5 years of experience
  • Experience in the design of flow paths of turbines or turbo machinery for compressible fluid flow in turbo machinery, preferably turbines.
  • Experience with nozzle and blade profile design
  • Experience with twisted, tapered 3-d profile design
  • Experience with overall steam path shaping
  • Expertise in compressible fluid flow analysis and lumped parameter/bulk flow models (potential flow solutions).

Proficiency in commercial RANS CFD software such as:
  • Ansys: Blade Modeler, Turbo Grid, CFX
  • Ansys Fluent

Secondary Skills, Experience, and Aptitude to Grow
  • Ability to execute CFD analysis for other compressible fluid flow applications (e.g., cooling air within generators, motors, and other rotating machinery and power electronic cabinets).
  • Experience with Ansys Fluent Suite
  • Experience with parameterized models to conduct aero/mechanical trade studies efficiently.
  • Exposure to Navy Nuclear applications / defense industry product lines.

Key Words for Search
• Compressible fluid flow
• Ansys Blade Modeler
• Ansys Turbo Grid
• Ansys CFX
• Fluid Solid Interface (FSI)
• Steam Turbines
• Gas Turbines
U.S. Citizenship required. This position may require an active DOD security clearance or the ability to obtain such clearance within a reasonable time after commencement of employment.
The salary range for this position is $143,911 to $223,422 per year. This range reflects the good faith estimate of pay the employer is willing to offer at the time of posting. Several factors can influence the pay scale, including but not limited to: Federal contract labor categories and contract wage rates, collective bargaining agreements, geographic location, business considerations, scope, and responsibilities of the position, local or other applicable market conditions, and internal equity. Other factors include the candidate's qualifications such as prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education/training, and certifications. In addition to base pay, employees may be eligible for: annual performance-based bonuses, equity awards, and overtime pay (for non-exempt employees as applicable. Our benefits package includes comprehensive health insurance (medical, dental, vision), employer matching 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off including vacation, holidays, and sick leave (including ant state-mandated paid sick leave), parental leave benefits, tuition reimbursement, professional development support, and life and disability insurance coverage.
Taking care of our people is a top priority at Leonardo DRS. We are proud to offer competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage, a company contribution to a health savings account, telemedicine, life and disability insurance, legal insurance, and a 401(k) savings plan. We champion wellness programs that focus on physical, emotional, and financial well-being. We develop our talent by offering programs and activities to support career-growth, professional development, and skill enhancement. And we understand there is more to life than work, and the importance of offering flexible work schedules with our 9/80 program, competitive vacation, health/emergency leave, paid parental leave, and community service hours.
Leonardo DRS, Inc. and its subsidiaries provide equal opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibit discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Our Vision. To be the leading mid-tier defense technology company in the U.S.
Our Values. The Leonardo DRS culture is defined by our Core Values and Principles:
- Integrity
- Agility
- Excellence
- Customer Focus
- Community & Respect
- Innovation
We strive to uphold them in all aspects of our business practices to inspire our employees and provide outstanding support for our customers.

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