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Aerodynamics Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Hermeus

Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

$91K - $140K/yr

As an Aerodynamics Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the development of advanced aerodynamic solutions, ensuring optimal performance, stability, and efficiency during high-speed flight. Join ...

Hermeus

Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$91K - $140K/yr

As an Aerodynamics Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the development of advanced aerodynamic solutions, ensuring optimal performance, stability, and efficiency during high-speed flight. Join ...

Hermeus

Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$91K - $140K/yr

As an Aerodynamics Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the development of advanced aerodynamic solutions, ensuring optimal performance, stability, and efficiency during high-speed flight. Join ...

Archer

Aerodynamics Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

... Engineering or a related field * 10+ years of experience with BS, or 8+ years of experience with MS, or 4+ years of experience with PhD modeling rotorcraft, tiltrotor, eVTOL aerodynamics at full ...

Archer

Aerodynamics Engineer

San Jose, CA · On-site

$160K - $220K/yr

... Engineering or a related field * 10+ years of experience with BS, or 8+ years of experience with MS, or 4+ years of experience with PhD modeling rotorcraft, tiltrotor, eVTOL aerodynamics at full ...

Approach Venture

Senior Aerodynamics Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$150K - $190K/yr

Senior Aerodynamics Engineer - Design the Next Generation of Advanced Aircraft San Diego, California | On-site Opportunity Summary Join a fast-growing aerospace company developing next-generation ...

Furientis

Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Math, Physics, or related. M.S. or Ph.D. preferred. * 7+ years of missile, munition, or high-speed airframe aerodynamics, with ...

Inversion

Senior Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$137K - $193K/yr

As a Senior Aerodynamics Engineer, you will generate and database the aerodynamic characteristics of our vehicles across the full flight envelope, aggregating data from high-fidelity CFD, lower-order ...

Inversion

Senior Aerodynamics Engineer

Vista, CA · On-site

$137K - $193K/yr

As a Senior Aerodynamics Engineer, you will generate and database the aerodynamic characteristics of our vehicles across the full flight envelope, aggregating data from high-fidelity CFD, lower-order ...

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Aerodynamics Engineer information

See California salary details

$76K

$92.9K

$119.4K

How much do aerodynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerodynamics engineer in California is $92,928.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $81,900.00 and $97,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an aerodynamics engineer do?

To achieve flight, heavier-than-air objects like planes or rockets must conform to certain principles of aerodynamics. Aerodynamics is the study of the motion of air and its interaction with solid objects. An aerodynamics engineer tests aerospace designs, such as aircraft bodies and propulsion systems to ensure they meet all aerodynamic specifications and conform to the physical laws of aerodynamics. Your duties and responsibilities include designing mathematical models and simulations to test designs before firms construct prototypes or full products. You also work to improve the efficiency of existing designs.

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

To thrive as an Aerodynamics Engineer, you need strong knowledge of fluid dynamics, computational modeling, and a degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Familiarity with tools like CFD software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM), wind tunnel testing, and experience with CAD systems are typically required. Critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication are key soft skills that help in cross-functional teamwork and innovative design. These skills and qualities are vital for optimizing designs, ensuring safety, and advancing aerodynamic performance in various industries.

What are some common challenges aerodynamics engineers face when collaborating with multidisciplinary teams?

Aerodynamics Engineers often work closely with professionals from structural engineering, manufacturing, and systems integration. One common challenge is balancing aerodynamic performance with structural and cost constraints, which requires clear communication and compromise. Additionally, integrating feedback from different teams while ensuring that aerodynamic goals are met can be complex and requires strong project management skills. Regular meetings and effective use of simulation tools help streamline the collaboration process.

What is the difference between Aerodynamics Engineer vs Aerospace Engineer?

AspectAerodynamics EngineerAerospace Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Aeronautical EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related engineering fields
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, wind tunnels, simulation software, aircraft or vehicle testing sitesDesign, development, testing of aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems
Industry UsagePrimarily in aeronautics, automotive, and defense sectors focusing on airflow and performanceBroader aerospace sector including aircraft, spacecraft, satellites, and defense systems

While both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often work in related environments, Aerodynamics Engineers focus specifically on airflow and performance optimization, whereas Aerospace Engineers have a broader scope including design and development of entire aerospace systems.

How much do aerodynamics engineers make?

Aerodynamics engineers typically earn a median annual salary of around $80,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Senior roles or those working in aerospace or defense industries can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Skills in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and proficiency with simulation tools can also influence compensation.
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Aerodynamics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerodynamics Engineer job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, 2% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $92,928 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Aerodynamics Engineer

Hermeus

Los Angeles, CA

$91K - $140K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago

Job description

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.

About The Role:

We are seeking an exceptional Aerodynamics Engineer to contribute to the design and analysis of our high super sonic vehicles. As an Aerodynamics Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the development of advanced aerodynamic solutions, ensuring optimal performance, stability, and efficiency during high-speed flight. Join our dynamic team and be part of the journey to create groundbreaking aerospace solutions at an iterative pace not seen since the 60's.
Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and refine aerodynamic designs for supersonic to hypersonic vehicles.
  • Conduct computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and analyses to assess aerodynamic performance and behavior.
  • Design, optimize, and evaluate vehicle configurations for high-speed flight and hypersonic travel.
  • Contribute to wind tunnel testing and experimental data analysis to validate CFD predictions.
  • Participate in the development and implementation of innovative aerodynamic solutions.
  • Work closely with other engineering disciplines to ensure integrated vehicle design and performance.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • 2+ years of relevant experience in aerodynamics and aerospace engineering.
  • Proficiency in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and tools.
  • Strong understanding of aerodynamics principles and concepts.
  • 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 and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Preferred Skills and Experience:
  • Knowledge of wind tunnel testing and experimental data analysis.
  • Previous experience in experimental programs.
 
 
 

The salary range listed for this role is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including role scope and responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, key skills, market data, and business needs.

At Hermeus, compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. We offer competitive pay, equity, and a range of benefits designed to support our team.

Benefits:
  • Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid healthcare and pet insurance
  • Financial: Competitive pay, stock options, 401(k) retirement plan, and potential year-end bonuses
  • Time Off: Paid parental leave, 12 federal holidays, unlimited PTO for exempt employees, and generous accrued PTO for non-exempt employees
  • Office Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakrooms
 
U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS 
The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending. 
 
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.