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Aerodynamics Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$87.2K

$106.6K

$137K

How much do aerodynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerodynamics engineer in Washington is $106,647.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $94,000.00 and $111,600.00 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 Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 8% Contract. Highlights an 80% Physical, 6% Hybrid, and 14% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $106,647 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Aerodynamic Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab

Laurel, MD • On-site

$100 - $245/hr

Other

Posted 5 days ago

Job description

Description

Are you searching for impactful aerodynamics work furthering innovative technologies, especially in the area of hypersonics?

Do you enjoy working with a team of forward-thinking engineers to improve our capability to predict advanced aerodynamic phenomena?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking an engineer to analyze the aerodynamic capabilities of new and existing precision engagement weapon systems. As a member of our team, you will contribute to exciting projects supporting the U.S. Department of Defense and the warfighter. Our team strives to develop, apply, and maintain deep expertise in aerodynamics, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and testing. You will work alongside aerodynamics experts who have a real passion for conducting research to advance our country's capabilities.

As an Aerodynamics Engineer you will...
  • Predict the aerodynamic characteristics of various air-vehicle configurations, including hypersonic re-entry vehicles, supersonic and hypersonic air-breathing concepts, and subsonic fixed-wing or rotorcraft air vehicles using first order aerodynamic prediction codes and CFD simulations.
  • Analyze trajectory simulations to generate range and maneuverability estimates using high-fidelity aerodynamics models.
  • Plan and conduct wind tunnel tests and perform post-test analysis to render data into high fidelity aerodynamic models for incorporation into six degree-of-freedom simulations. You will support associated test activities including pre-test predictions, test design, instrumentation requirements, and documentation.
  • Craft reports and presentations to communicate results to team members and government partners.
Qualifications You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...
  • Have a B.S in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
  • Have 5+ years of experience in conducting CFD simulations, running wind tunnel tests, or analyzing and developing aerodynamic models.
  • Have prior experience coding and using MATLAB scripts and functions.
  • Have excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Are willing and able to travel occasionally to attend meetings or tests at other government and contractor sites.
  • Are comfortable working in closed area facilities.
  • Are able to obtain a Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.
You’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...
  • Have a M.S. or Ph.D degree or equivalent experience in aerodynamics or equivalent experience in weapon system design and development with a focus on aerodynamics or aerothermodynamics.
  • Have previously worked with trajectory modeling software, CAD, Multi-Dimensional Optimization (MDO) and/or Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) modeling tools.
  • Have experience with CFD++, US3D, Kestrel/Helios, or other advanced DoD or commercial CFD codes, as well as experience generating CFD meshes (Pointwise, Link3D, GridPro).
  • Have strong programming skills in Bash (or similar shell equivalent) and/or Python.
  • Have shown initiative, motivation, and flexibility.
Salary Range

Minimum Rate: $100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually

EEO and Disability Accommodation Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact Accessibility@jhuapl.edu.

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