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Aerodynamics Engineer Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Engineering Time Type: Full time Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret Employee Type: Regular ... rotorcraft aerodynamics in a collaborative, innovation-driven environment Responsibilities:

Flight Test Engineer Location: Arnold AFB - Tullahoma, TH This is a pipeline requisition intended ... and aerodynamic models. Reporting & Briefings: Author comprehensive technical test reports ...

Showing results 21-40

Aerodynamics Engineer information

See Washington salary details

$87.2K

$106.6K

$137K

How much do aerodynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 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.

What job categories do people searching Aerodynamics Engineer jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Aerodynamics Engineer jobs in Washington are:

What cities in Washington are hiring for Aerodynamics Engineer jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Aerodynamics Engineer job openings:

What are popular job titles related to Aerodynamics Engineer jobs in WA?

For Aerodynamics Engineer jobs in WA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Aerodynamics Engineer job openings in Washington 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 $106,647 per year, or $51.3 per hour.

Rotorcraft & Flight Test Engineer

CACI International, Inc.

Bethesda, MD • On-site

$79K - $162K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Rotorcraft & Flight Test Engineer
Job Category: Engineering
Time Type: Full time
Minimum Clearance Required to Start: Secret
Employee Type: Regular
Percentage of Travel Required: Up to 10%
Type of Travel: Local
* * *
Rotorcraft & Flight Test Engineer
The Opportunity:
• Join a dynamic engineering team focused on cutting-edge rotorcraft and drone technology development
• Work hands-on across the full engineering lifecycle - from hardware fabrication and drone building to advanced computational data analysis
• Contribute to aircraft development projects that bridge predictive modeling with real-world experimental testing
• Gain exposure to wind tunnel testing, flight simulation, and rotorcraft aerodynamics in a collaborative, innovation-driven environment
Responsibilities:
• Fabricate, install, and wire hardware components for aircraft and drone systems
• Perform data analysis and reduction using computational tools such as LabVIEW
• Conduct Matlab-based simulations to model rotorcraft behavior and performance
• Use Flightlab to analyze and model various rotorcraft configurations
• Match predictive/simulated data with experimental results to validate models
• Support aircraft development efforts, including building and testing phases
• Provide support for wind tunnel testing, including model fabrication and instrument installation
• Apply design principles using Matlab and Solidworks for hardware and system development
• Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams
• Document testing procedures, results, and analysis findings
• Troubleshoot hardware and software issues during testing and development
Qualifications:
Required:
• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a similar Engineering field
• Hands-on fabrication experience
• Experience installing and wiring hardware/electrical systems
• Proficiency in Matlab for simulation and design work
• Experience with Solidworks for design applications
• Background knowledge of rotorcraft modeling, aerodynamics, and basic control theory
• Experience analyzing and reducing data, including data from drone flights
• Familiarity with computational tools such as LabVIEW
Desired:
• Experience with Flightlab for rotorcraft analysis and modeling
• Prior experience in aircraft development (building and testing)
• Background or coursework in rotorcraft-specific engineering applications
• Experience supporting wind tunnel testing and instrument installation
• Robotics-focused project experience combining hardware and analytical skills

What You Can Expect:
A culture of integrity.
At CACI, we place character and innovation at the center of everything we do. As a valued team member, you'll be part of a high-performing group dedicated to our customer's missions and driven by a higher purpose - to ensure the safety of our nation.
An environment of trust.
CACI values the unique contributions that every employee brings to our company and our customers - every day. You'll have the autonomy to take the time you need through a unique flexible time off benefit and have access to robust learning resources to make your ambitions a reality.
A focus on continuous growth.
Together, we will advance our nation's most critical missions, build on our lengthy track record of business success, and find opportunities to break new ground - in your career and in our legacy.
Pay Range:
There are a host of factors that can influence final salary including, but not limited to, geographic location, Federal Government contract labor categories and contract wage rates, relevant prior work experience, specific skills and competencies, education, and certifications. Our employees value the flexibility at CACI that allows them to balance quality work and their personal lives. We offer competitive compensation, benefits and learning and development opportunities. Our broad and competitive mix of benefits options is designed to support and protect employees and their families. At CACI, you will receive comprehensive benefits such as; healthcare, wellness, financial, retirement, family support, continuing education, and time off benefits.
The proposed salary range for this position is:
$79,400 - $162,700
CACI is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected characteristic.