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Aerodynamics Engineer Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Qualdoc

Flight Sciences Engineer

Newport News, VA · On-site

$60/hr

Perform aerodynamic evaluations, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), flight loads, flutter analysis, structural dynamics, stability and control assessments, and aircraft performance analyses.

Leidos

Senior Kinetics DE/CD Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$115K - $157K/yr

You will be responsible for designing and analyzing high-speed aerodynamic concepts. Job ... Experience with digital engineering toolsets like UPBEAT, Model Center, Galaxy, etc. * Strong ...

Astrion

Aerospace Engineer - Midlevel

Dahlgren, VA

$110K - $180K/yr

Overview Aerospace Engineer - Midlevel Job Location: Dahlgren, Virginia Job Status: Full Time ... Development of aerodynamics, mass properties, propulsion, guidance, navigation and control inputs ...

Astrion

Aerospace Engineer - Midlevel

Dahlgren, VA · On-site

$110K - $180K/yr

Overview Aerospace Engineer - Midlevel Job Location: Dahlgren, Virginia Job Status: Full Time ... Development of aerodynamics, mass properties, propulsion, guidance, navigation and control inputs ...

North Wind

Propulsion System Engineer

Newport News, VA · On-site

$100K - $200K/yr

Our team drives innovation in high-speed aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and mission-critical ... Satellite engineering offices across the US are available so location constraints are potentially ...

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All JobsAerodynamics Engineer JobsAerodynamics Engineer Jobs in Virginia

Aerodynamics Engineer information

See Virginia salary details

$76.3K

$93.4K

$120K

How much do aerodynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerodynamics engineer in Virginia is $93,354.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $82,300.00 and $97,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an Aerodynamics Engineer do?

An Aerodynamics Engineer studies and analyzes how air flows around objects, especially vehicles like airplanes, cars, and rockets. Their main goal is to design shapes and structures that reduce drag and improve performance, efficiency, and stability. They use computational simulations, wind tunnel testing, and mathematical models to optimize designs for speed, fuel economy, and safety. Aerodynamics Engineers often collaborate with other engineers to ensure that vehicles meet industry standards and function as intended in real-world conditions.

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.

What Do Aerodynamics Engineers 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.
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Aerodynamics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerodynamics Engineer job openings in Virginia as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% As Needed, 65% Full Time, 22% Part Time, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 77% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 21% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $93,354 per year, or $44.9 per hour.

Aerodynamics Chief Engineer

Analytical Mechanics Associates

Hampton, VA • On-site

$200K - $225K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Job Description:
Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is in need of a full-time Rotorcraft Aerodynamics Chief-Engineer to support our team under the RSES contract at NASA Langley Research Center.
The candidate will have exceptional knowledge and experience in the field of rotorcraft aerodynamics and dynamics testing, model design, and aerodynamic and dynamics data analysis. Strong preference towards documented expertise leading large-scale wind tunnel facilities; along with experience in Particle Image Velocimetry measurements, stress and strain measurements, and rotor model development. Peer-Reviewed journal publications on relevant topics a plus.
The salary range for this position is $200,000-$225,000 commensurate with education and experience.
Requirements:
  • Provide senior-level leadership expertise in wind tunnel experimental testing, design, and execution.
  • Provide schedule, budget, and performance tracking for large wind tunnel experiments.
  • Serve as the senior-level engineering support for safe operations of wind tunnel facility.
  • Ensure existing technical standards are met and establish new standards for evolving experimental needs.
  • Support development, testing, and documentation of rotorcraft aerodynamics and dynamic models.
  • Assist in documentation and review of experimental data collection efforts.

Technical Skills:
  • 20+ years of rotorcraft and wind-tunnel related experience required.
  • Demonstrated leader advising at SES-level, or equivalent, regarding rotorcraft testing requirements and analysis.
  • Proficient in experimental design, risk assessment, and documentation efforts.
  • Strong experience leading and mentoring younger engineers.

Education and Qualifications:
  • M.S. degree in Aerospace Engineering or equivalent.

U.S citizenship or Permanent Residence is required.
Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is proud of our customer relationships, our diverse and dynamic work environment, and our employees' career satisfaction. AMA is a small business with a wide reach; headquartered in Hampton, VA, AMA has operations in Greenbelt, MD; Huntsville, AL; Dallas and Houston, TX; Denver, CO; Mountain View, CA; and Edwards Air Force Base, CA. With over 60 years of experience, AMA specializes in aerospace engineering, science, analytics, information technology, and visualization solutions. AMA combines the best of engineering, science, and mathematics capabilities with the latest in information technologies, visualization, and multimedia to build creative solutions. We offer competitive salaries and a substantial benefits package, including but not limited to paid personal and federally recognized holiday leave, salary deferrals into a 401(k)-matching plan with immediate vesting, tuition reimbursement, short/long term disability plans, and a variety of medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
AMA is committed to the professional growth of every employee, understanding that the successes of our employees drive our success. We provide a work environment that is engaging, collaborative, and supportive. To learn more about our company, please visit our website at www.ama-inc.com/careers and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
AMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.

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