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Aerodynamic Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Aerodynamic Engineer information

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How much do aerodynamic engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerodynamic 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 is the difference between Aerodynamic Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectAerodynamic EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Aeronautical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, wind tunnels, aerospace companiesManufacturing plants, design offices, various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, automotive, sports equipmentBroad industry use including automotive, manufacturing, energy
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

While both Aerodynamic Engineers and Mechanical Engineers work in engineering environments and often hold similar degrees, Aerodynamic Engineers specialize in airflow and fluid dynamics, primarily in aerospace and automotive sectors. Mechanical Engineers have a broader focus on mechanical systems across various industries. The key difference lies in their specialization and application areas.

How much do aerodynamic engineers make?

Aerodynamic engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and industry. Senior roles or those working in aerospace or automotive sectors can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Skills in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and proficiency with simulation tools can also influence compensation.

What does an aerodynamic engineer do?

An aerodynamic engineer designs and analyzes the airflow around objects such as aircraft, vehicles, or turbines to improve performance and efficiency. They use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and wind tunnel testing to optimize shapes and reduce drag, often working in aerospace, automotive, or energy industries.
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What cities are hiring for Aerodynamic Engineer jobs?

Cities with the most Aerodynamic Engineer job openings:

What states have the most Aerodynamic Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Aerodynamic Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Aerodynamic Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 85% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $30,337 per year, or $14.6 per hour.

$100 - $245/hr

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Posted 2 days ago

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Job description

Description

Are you searching for impactful aerodynamics work furthering innovative technologies, especially in the area of hypersonics?

Do you enjoy working with a team of forward-thinking engineers to improve our capability to predict advanced aerodynamic phenomena?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking an engineer to analyze the aerodynamic capabilities of new and existing precision engagement weapon systems. As a member of our team, you will contribute to exciting projects supporting the U.S. Department of Defense and the warfighter. Our team strives to develop, apply, and maintain deep expertise in aerodynamics, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and testing. You will work alongside aerodynamics experts who have a real passion for conducting research to advance our country's capabilities.

As an Aerodynamics Engineer you will...
  • Predict the aerodynamic characteristics of various air-vehicle configurations, including hypersonic re-entry vehicles, supersonic and hypersonic air-breathing concepts, and subsonic fixed-wing or rotorcraft air vehicles using first order aerodynamic prediction codes and CFD simulations.
  • Analyze trajectory simulations to generate range and maneuverability estimates using high-fidelity aerodynamics models.
  • Plan and conduct wind tunnel tests and perform post-test analysis to render data into high fidelity aerodynamic models for incorporation into six degree-of-freedom simulations. You will support associated test activities including pre-test predictions, test design, instrumentation requirements, and documentation.
  • Craft reports and presentations to communicate results to team members and government partners.
Qualifications You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a B.S in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Have 5+ years of experience in conducting CFD simulations, running wind tunnel tests, or analyzing and developing aerodynamic models.
  • Have prior experience coding and using MATLAB scripts and functions.
  • Have excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Are willing and able to travel occasionally to attend meetings or tests at other government and contractor sites.
  • Are comfortable working in closed area facilities.
  • Are able to obtain a Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
You’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a M.S. or Ph.D degree or equivalent experience in aerodynamics or equivalent experience in weapon system design and development with a focus on aerodynamics or aerothermodynamics.
  • Have previously worked with trajectory modeling software, CAD, Multi-Dimensional Optimization (MDO) and/or Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) modeling tools.
  • Have experience with CFD++, US3D, Kestrel/Helios, or other advanced DoD or commercial CFD codes, as well as experience generating CFD meshes (Pointwise, Link3D, GridPro).
  • Have strong programming skills in Bash (or similar shell equivalent) and/or Python.
  • Have shown initiative, motivation, and flexibility.
Salary Range

Minimum Rate: $100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually

EEO and Disability Accommodation Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.

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