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Aerodynamics Engineer Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

Socket.dev

Senior Aerodynamics Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$200 - $250/hr

As an Aerodynamics Engineer, you are responsible for aerodynamic design, test, and analysis for unmanned aerial vehicle systems. You bring superb technical, research and analytical capabilities with ...

Ford Motor Company

Sr. Aerodynamics Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$138K - $232K/yr

Ford's Aerodynamics team is looking for an exceptional, well rounded, Aerodynamics Engineer to grow our capabilities and help us accelerate the world's transition to sustainable energy. You will be ...

Wing

Senior Aerodynamics Engineer

Palo Alto, CA · On-site

$228K - $242K/yr

Wing is looking for a Senior Aerodynamics Engineer to join our Aircraft Development team-an interdisciplinary team whose mission is to develop innovative and efficient aircraft and ground support ...

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All JobsAerodynamics Engineer JobsAerodynamics Engineer Jobs in California

Aerodynamics Engineer information

See California salary details

$76K

$92.9K

$119.4K

How much do aerodynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 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 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,928 per year, or $44.7 per hour.

Turbomachinery Aerodynamics Engineer

Valar Atomics

Torrance, CA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

About Valar Atomics

At Valar Atomics, we're redefining what's possible in energy. Our mission is to make clean, high-temperature nuclear power scalable-unlocking abundant energy for industry, hydrogen, and next-generation manufacturing. We are a team of builders, engineers, and operators who believe nuclear energy should be fast to deploy, factory-made, and built for the real world. Our first pilot plant in Orangeville, Utah will demonstrate how advanced nuclear systems and fuel fabrication can power the future. Joining Valar Atomics means becoming part of a company where autonomy, ownership, and impact exist at every level.

The Team

As part of the Engineering organization, Power Conversion develops the technologies that efficiently transform reactor-generated heat into usable electrical power. The team focuses on maximizing system performance, reliability, and commercial viability.

The Role 

Valar Atomics is seeking a turbomachinery aerodynamics engineer to join the turbomachinery team and advance power generation capability. In this role, you'll be responsible for the aerodynamic design of cutting-edge turbomachinery for power generation. You'll be working with cross-functional team members to define a manufacturable, high efficiency, robust design. As an early hire in turbomachinery, you will be able to directly influence design decisions on the system architecture. 

Key Responsibilities 

  • Conduct meanline and streamline analysis of turbomachinery designs 
  • Analyze turbomachinery components using 3D CFD 
  • Conduct trade studies of turbomachinery configurations including stage count, shrouded/unshrouded designs, axial/radial configurations 

Basic Qualifications 

  • Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering 
  • Experience analyzing turbomachinery (Turbines, Compressors, Turbochargers, Turboexpanders, Blowers, Turbopumps, etc.) 
  • Experience with meanline and streamline analysis of turbomachinery 
  • Experience with 3D CFD simulations of turbomachinery 

Preferred Skills and Experience 

  • Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering  
  • Knowledge of manufacturing, postprocessing, assembly, inspection procedures for turbomachinery 
  • Experience with supercritical C02 
  • Experience with unsteady simulations of turbomachinery 
  • Experience with thermodynamic cycle analysis 
  • Experience with commercially available turbomachinery design packages (AxStream, Concepts NREC, NPSS OTAC) 

What We Offer  

  • Competitive base salary 
  • Equity ownership in a rapidly growing advanced energy company 
  • Comprehensive medical benefits 
  • Unlimited PTO
  • Free daily lunch and dinner provided onsite 
  • Generous PPE stipend
  • High-impact startup environment with significant ownership and autonomy 
  • Opportunities for rapid career growth and internal advancement 
  • Direct collaboration with experienced operators, engineers, and industry leaders 
  • The opportunity to help build and scale transformative energy technology from the ground up

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Valar Atomics is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable law.

We are committed to providing a workplace free of discrimination and harassment and will provide reasonable accommodation as required by law.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States as a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident (green card holder).

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