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Aerodynamic Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Anduril Industries

Flight Sciences Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

We are looking for software engineers, hardware engineers, roboticists, and front-end mobile ... Aerodynamic Design & Analysis: * Aerodynamic design of fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and hybrid VTOL ...

Lucid Motors

Sr. Engineer, Aerodynamics

Southfield, MI

$95K - $131K/yr

Contribute to the aerodynamic design and development of world class vehicles * Design, optimize ... engineers, and working with suppliers Qualifications: * 5 + years of related experience with a ...

Anduril Industries

Flight Sciences Engineer

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$166K - $220K/yr

We are looking for software engineers, hardware engineers, roboticists, and front-end mobile ... Aerodynamic Design & Analysis: * Aerodynamic design of fixed-wing, rotary-wing, and hybrid VTOL ...

Lucid Motors

Sr. Engineer, Aerodynamics

Newark, CA

$140K - $192K/yr

Contribute to the aerodynamic design and development of world class vehicles * Design, optimize ... engineers, and working with suppliers Qualifications: * 5 + years of related experience with a ...

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Aerodynamic Design Engineer information

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How much do aerodynamic design engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 9, 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace, petroleum, and software engineers are among the engineering roles that can earn $300,000 or more annually, often due to specialized skills, experience, and working in high-demand industries. These positions typically require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive expertise in their fields.

How much does an aerodynamics engineer make?

An aerodynamics engineer typically earns between $70,000 and $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, and location. Entry-level positions may start lower, while senior engineers with specialized skills or certifications can earn higher salaries, especially in the aerospace or automotive industries.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior engineers in specialized fields such as aerospace, petroleum, or software engineering can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves bonuses, stock options, or profit sharing, particularly in large corporations or high-demand 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 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.

How much does an aerodynamic engineer get paid?

An aerodynamic design engineer's salary typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience, education, location, and industry sector. Senior engineers or those with specialized skills in computational fluid dynamics or aerospace may earn higher salaries, often exceeding $130,000. Compensation also varies based on certifications and the complexity of projects handled.

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.
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 July 2026, with employment types broken down into 26% As Needed, 14% Full Time, 59% Temporary, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 95% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,337 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

Lead Turbomachinery Engineer - Advanced Energy Systems

Approach Venture

Hawthorne, CA

$200K - $250K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision

Posted 15 days ago

Job description

Lead Turbomachinery Engineer - Design the Core Power System for Next-Generation Energy Hardware

Hawthorne, CA | On-site


Opportunity Summary

Join a venture-backed energy technology company developing advanced power generation systems designed to meet growing global energy demands. This role will lead the aerodynamic design and performance development of the rotating machinery at the heart of a new power conversion platform, helping move the technology from concept through testing and production. Working directly with the founding engineering team, you will drive compressor and turbine design, influence system architecture, support hardware validation, and help establish the engineering processes needed to scale a complex hardware program. This is a highly technical role that combines first-principles analysis, hands-on development, and rapid iteration within an early-stage environment.


About Us

We are an early-stage energy technology company focused on developing advanced power generation and conversion systems for future energy infrastructure. Backed by experienced engineers and operators, the team is building complex hardware platforms that require deep expertise across turbomachinery, power systems, manufacturing, and testing. With active development programs underway and significant technical milestones ahead, this is an opportunity to contribute to foundational technology at a critical stage of growth.


Job Duties

  • Lead aerodynamic design and development of compressors and turbines from initial sizing through detailed analysis and optimization
  • Perform and oversee meanline, streamline, and CFD-based aerodynamic design activities
  • Own performance prediction across design-point and off-design operating conditions
  • Drive turbomachinery designs toward production-ready configurations in collaboration with mechanical, thermal, and structural engineering teams
  • Incorporate bearing, sealing, rotordynamic, and system-level constraints into rotating hardware designs
  • Support prototype assembly, testing, data analysis, and design iteration efforts
  • Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturing partners to ensure designs are practical and producible
  • Develop engineering methodologies, design standards, and technical processes as the organization grows
  • Mentor engineers and contribute to hiring and team development efforts
  • Support long-term product development strategy and future hardware scaling initiatives


Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
  • Experience designing and analyzing turbomachinery, including compressors, turbines, turbopumps, turboexpanders, turbochargers, or similar rotating equipment
  • Strong understanding of fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and turbomachinery aerodynamics
  • Experience balancing aerodynamic performance with structural, thermal, manufacturing, and system-level requirements
  • Proficiency with CFD analysis and turbomachinery design tools
  • Experience using modern CAD platforms for mechanical design and development
  • Strong communication skills and ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary engineering teams
  • Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, hands-on engineering environment


Preferred Experience

  • Experience with advanced working fluids or real-gas turbomachinery systems
  • Design of high-speed radial compressors and turbines
  • Structural and thermal analysis of rotating hardware using FEA or related tools
  • Detailed mechanical design of turbomachinery components through released hardware
  • Familiarity with manufacturing methods for rotating machinery and high-temperature materials
  • Experience taking turbomachinery hardware from design through testing and validation
  • Technical leadership, mentoring, or team-building experience
  • Startup or early-stage hardware development experience


Why Join Us

  • Join a venture-backed company tackling one of the most challenging problems in energy and power generation
  • Own a critical portion of the product architecture and technical roadmap
  • Work directly with experienced founders and senior engineering leaders
  • Significant technical autonomy and influence on product direction
  • Meaningful equity ownership
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Fully stocked kitchen with snacks, coffee, and lunch
  • Opportunity to help build and shape a growing engineering organization


Compensation Details

$200,000 - $250,000





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