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Aerodynamics Design Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Archer

Aerodynamics Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Lead the aerodynamic design and optimization of aircraft OML components to maximize performance and ... Aerospace Engineering or a related field * 10+ years of experience with BS, or 8+ years of ...

Archer

Aerodynamics Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

Lead the aerodynamic design and optimization of aircraft OML components to maximize performance and ... Aerospace Engineering or a related field * 10+ years of experience with BS, or 8+ years of ...

CHAOS Industries

Aerodynamics Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

CHAOS is seeking an Aerodynamics Engineer to lead the aerodynamic design, analysis, and flight performance optimization of fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems and missile-class vehicles. This role ...

Goken

Aerodynamics Engineer - Air Vehicles

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$70 - $78/hr

Aerodynamics design of unmanned air vehicles/missiles at conceptual, preliminary, and detailed design maturities * Aerodynamics analysis of unmanned air vehicles, using both low and high order ...

CHAOS Industries

Aerodynamics Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

CHAOS is seeking an Aerodynamics Engineer to lead the aerodynamic design, analysis, and flight performance optimization of fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems and missile-class vehicles. This role ...

Goken

Aerodynamics Engineer - Air Vehicles

Costa Mesa, CA · On-site

$70 - $78/hr

Aerodynamics design of unmanned air vehicles/missiles at conceptual, preliminary, and detailed design maturities * Aerodynamics analysis of unmanned air vehicles, using both low and high order ...

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All JobsAerodynamics Design Engineer Jobs

Aerodynamics Design Engineer information

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$40.5K

$88.2K

$158.5K

How much do aerodynamics design engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 12, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerodynamics design engineer in the United States is $88,150.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $68,000.00 and $98,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers, including aerodynamics design engineers with extensive experience and advanced skills, can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace and defense. Achieving this level typically requires advanced degrees, specialized expertise, leadership roles, and often working in high-cost regions or for major corporations.

What is the difference between Aerodynamics Design Engineer vs Aerodynamics Analyst?

AspectAerodynamics Design EngineerAerodynamics Analyst
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related fields
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, wind tunnels, CAD software, R&D teamsData analysis, CFD simulations, testing environments
Industry UsageDesigning new aircraft, vehicles, or componentsEvaluating aerodynamic performance, analyzing test data

Both roles focus on aerodynamics but differ in scope. Aerodynamics Design Engineers develop and optimize designs, while Aerodynamics Analysts evaluate and interpret aerodynamic data. They often collaborate but serve distinct functions within aerospace and automotive industries.

What does an Aerodynamics Design Engineer do?

An Aerodynamics Design Engineer focuses on optimizing the shape and features of vehicles, aircraft, or other objects to improve their performance by reducing air resistance and enhancing stability. They use principles of fluid dynamics, computer simulations, and wind tunnel testing to evaluate and refine designs. Their work is crucial in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and motorsports, ensuring products are both efficient and safe. Collaboration with other engineering teams is common, and they often use specialized software for modeling and analysis.

What engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace engineers, including aerodynamics design engineers with extensive experience and advanced skills, can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially in high-demand industries like aerospace and defense. Compensation often depends on factors such as location, certifications, and the complexity of projects handled.

How much does an aerodynamics engineer make?

The average salary for an aerodynamics design engineer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $70,000 to $120,000 annually. Senior engineers with specialized skills or working in high-demand industries can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Certifications in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and proficiency with simulation tools can also influence compensation.

What engineers make $200,000 a year?

Senior aerodynamics design engineers with extensive experience, advanced skills in computational fluid dynamics, and often working in aerospace or automotive industries can earn $200,000 or more annually. High-level engineers in specialized fields or leadership roles may also reach this salary level, especially with additional certifications and a strong track record of project success.

How does an Aerodynamics Design Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering teams during the development process?

Aerodynamics Design Engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, such as structural, propulsion, and manufacturing engineers, to ensure that aerodynamic solutions align with overall project goals. Effective collaboration is essential, as changes in aerodynamic design can impact weight, materials, and system integration. Regular meetings, design reviews, and the use of shared digital modeling tools help facilitate communication and resolve potential conflicts early in the development cycle. This collaborative environment not only streamlines the engineering process but also provides valuable learning opportunities and broadens professional expertise.

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

To thrive as an Aerodynamics Design Engineer, you need a solid background in fluid dynamics, mechanical or aerospace engineering, and proficiency in mathematical modeling, typically supported by a relevant engineering degree. Expertise in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, CAD tools, and familiarity with wind tunnel testing are commonly required. Strong problem-solving abilities, analytical thinking, and effective teamwork distinguish top performers in this field. These skills ensure innovative, efficient, and safe aerodynamic designs that meet performance and regulatory standards.
More about Aerodynamics Design Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Aerodynamics Design Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aerodynamics Design Engineer jobs are:
Aerodynamics Design Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerodynamics Design Engineer job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 14% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 3% Part Time, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $88,150 per year, or $42.4 per hour.
Senior Aerodynamics Design Engineer

Senior Aerodynamics Design Engineer

JetZero

Long Beach, CA

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 23 days ago

Job description

What You'll Do:
  • Conduct CFD simulations to assess aerodynamic performance under various conditions.
  • Develop aerodynamic shapes and configurations to meet performance, efficiency, and stability goals.
  • Utilize optimization methods (adjoint-based, gradient-free, surrogate modeling) for design enhancements.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (structures, propulsion, systems) for integrated design solutions.
  • Analyze wind tunnel and flight test data to validate CFD predictions and enhance modeling accuracy.
  • Assist in tool development and process automation for CFD workflows and optimization frameworks.
  • Document findings, provide technical recommendations, and present results to engineering teams and leadership.
What You Bring:
  • Bachelor's, Master's, or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • 10-15 years demonstrated experience in aerodynamic analysis, CFD simulation, and design optimization.
  • Familiarity with commercial and/or open-source CFD tools (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM, SU2).
  • Strong understanding of turbulence modeling, meshing strategies, and numerical methods.
  • Hands-on experience with optimization techniques (DOE, adjoint methods, machine learning-assisted optimization).
  • Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, or similar languages for data processing and automation.
  • Analytical mindset with attention to detail and problem-solving skills.
  • Ability to thrive in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment.
Preferred Skills (Nice to Have):
  • Experience with high-fidelity CFD (LES/DES) or aero-acoustics analysis.
  • Familiarity with multidisciplinary optimization (MDO) frameworks.
  • Background in experimental aerodynamics or wind tunnel testing.
  • Previous experience in blended wing body technologies
  • Experience in HPC (High Performance Computing) environments.
Compensation: 

Our compensation package is a blend of base salary and equity options for eligible employees. The range for this role is $195,000-$220,000. We consider a number of factors when presenting a final offer, including geography, internal equity and years of experience and expertise.  

Benefits 
  • Unlimited PTO 
  • 10 paid holidays 
  • 401(k) 
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Disability Insurance 
  • Life Insurance 
  • Equity tax advisory services 
  • Supportive work culture 

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