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Aerodynamicist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Mach Industries

Aerodynamicist

Huntington Beach, CA · On-site

$110K - $195K/yr

As an aerodynamicist, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to analyze and refine vehicle performance, enhance aerodynamic efficiency, and integrate cutting-edge designs into ...

Aptera Motors

Aerodynamicist

Carlsbad, CA · On-site

$104K - $141K/yr

Aptera Motors is dedicated to building a future where every journey is powered by the sun. We specialize in creating solar electric vehicles that revolutionize the way we travel, providing ...

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Aerodynamicist information

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How much do aerodynamicist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 8, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerodynamicist in the United States is $26.34, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.14 and $30.77 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How does an aerodynamicist typically collaborate with other engineering teams during a project?

Aerodynamicists work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including mechanical, structural, and manufacturing engineers, as well as designers and test engineers. They frequently participate in design reviews, share simulation data, and provide feedback to ensure aerodynamic considerations are integrated into the overall product. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as aerodynamicists often need to balance performance goals with practical constraints such as manufacturability and regulatory requirements. This collaborative environment offers valuable opportunities to learn from other specialties and contribute to innovative solutions.

What is the difference between Aerodynamicist vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAerodynamicistAerospace Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Aeronautical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering fields
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, design teams, testing facilities focused on aerodynamicsDesign, development, testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems
Industry UsagePrimarily in aerodynamics research, wind tunnel testing, and fluid dynamicsBroader roles including structural design, propulsion, and systems integration

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work within aerospace industries, an Aerodynamicist specializes specifically in fluid flow and aerodynamic performance, whereas an Aerospace Engineer has a broader scope, covering multiple engineering disciplines involved in aircraft and spacecraft development.

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

To thrive as an Aerodynamicist, you need a strong background in fluid dynamics, engineering mathematics, and physics, typically supported by a degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Proficiency with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, wind tunnel testing, and data analysis tools is essential, and certifications like Professional Engineer (PE) can be advantageous. Strong problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills help Aerodynamicists collaborate effectively and present complex findings clearly. These skills are crucial for designing efficient, safe, and innovative aerodynamic solutions in industries like aviation, automotive, and motorsports.

What does an aerodynamicist do?

An aerodynamicist is a specialist who studies the movement of air and how it interacts with solid objects, such as vehicles, aircraft, or sports equipment. They use principles of fluid dynamics to optimize shapes and designs to reduce drag, improve efficiency, and enhance performance. Their work often involves computer simulations, wind tunnel testing, and analyzing data to recommend design modifications. Aerodynamicists are commonly employed in the aerospace, automotive, and sports industries.

How do I become an aerodynamicist?

To become an aerodynamicist, typically a bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a related field is required, often followed by a master's or Ph.D. for advanced roles. Developing skills in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, physics, and mathematics is essential, along with gaining experience through internships or research projects in aerodynamics environments.

How much do aerodynamicists get paid?

Aerodynamicists typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and industry sector. Senior roles or those working in aerospace and automotive industries may have higher compensation, often supplemented with benefits and bonuses.

What is the job of an aerodynamicist?

An aerodynamicist designs and analyzes the airflow around objects such as aircraft, vehicles, or turbines to improve performance and efficiency. They use computational tools like CFD (computational fluid dynamics) and wind tunnel testing to optimize shapes and reduce drag. The role often requires a background in physics or engineering and proficiency with simulation software.
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Aerodynamicist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerodynamicist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 86% Physical, and 14% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $54,791 per year, or $26.3 per hour.

Aerodynamicist

Mach Industries

Huntington Beach, CA • On-site

$110K - $195K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 2 days ago

Job description

About Mach Industries
Founded in 2022, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition.
Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.
The Role
Mach Industries is seeking a talented and driven Aerodynamicist to support the design, analysis, and optimization of next-generation autonomous defense platforms. Your work will play a crucial role in ensuring our vehicles achieve peak performance and efficiency in mission-critical environments. As an aerodynamicist, you will collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to analyze and refine vehicle performance, enhance aerodynamic efficiency, and integrate cutting-edge designs into production-ready systems.
Responsibilities:
  • Aerodynamic Design and Analysis: Lead aerodynamic analysis and design efforts for air-breathing and solid rockets missile platforms across relevant flight regimes, selecting and applying first-principles reasoning, computational tools, and empirical methods as appropriate.
  • Optimization of Aerodynamic Performance: Own aerodynamic trade studies to optimize vehicle performance (drag, stability, control, efficiency), assess design sensitivities, and recommend geometry changes aligned with mission-level requirements.
  • Support Vehicle-Level Design: Contribute to vehicle-level configuration development, ensuring aerodynamic concepts are integrated effectively with propulsion, structures, and systems from early design through refinement.
  • Testing and Validation: Plan and support wind tunnel and flight test campaigns, lead aerodynamic data reduction and interpretation, and drive design updates based on validated results.
Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field and 5+ years of experience.
  • Proficiency in aerodynamic simulation tools and techniques at multiple fidelity levels, such as Missile Datcom, Xfoil, OpenVSP, Cart3D, and/or STAR-CCM+.
  • 2+ years working with missiles or closely related vehicles.
  • Strong foundation in fluid dynamics and aerodynamic principles, with experience optimizing vehicle performance.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.
Preferred Qualifications:
  • 8+ years experience
  • Hands-on experience with missile systems, UAS, or high-speed aircraft.
  • Familiarity with startup or defense sector environments.
  • Experience developing aerodynamic solutions for scalable, production-ready systems.
  • Experience conducting wind tunnel or flight testing and analyzing experimental data.

Disclosures
This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.
Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S.
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.
Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you'd like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!

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