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Aerodynamics Engineer Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

They will be responsible for the definition and oversight of ground and flight aerodynamics ... Further, the engineer will aid in defining objectives, mission requirements, vehicle configurations ...

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... Strong grasp of flight dynamics and fundamentals of aerodynamics * Proficient in C/C ...

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... Strong grasp of flight dynamics and fundamentals of aerodynamics * Proficient in C/C ...

GNC Engineer

Arlington, VA · On-site

$140K - $170K/yr

As a GNC Engineer, you will be responsible for developing and sustaining the guidance, navigation ... Strong grasp of flight dynamics and fundamentals of aerodynamics * Proficient in C/C ...

Aeronautical Engineer research designs, develops and tests subsystems for UAS aircraft including ... Some elements of aerospace engineering are aerodynamics, propulsion, control or flight design and ...

Senior Airframe Design Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$100K - $136K/yr

Senior Airframe Design Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation ... Collaborate with aerodynamics, propulsion, systems, manufacturing, stress, and certification teams ...

Senior Airframe Design Engineer

Manassas, VA · On-site

$100K - $136K/yr

Senior Airframe Design Engineer About Electra At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation ... Collaborate with aerodynamics, propulsion, systems, manufacturing, stress, and certification teams ...

Perform aerodynamic, thermal, and structural analyses using industry-standard tools * Develop and ... Proficiency with engineering tools (MATLAB, ANSYS, NASTRAN, CFD tools) * Experience performing ...

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Aerodynamics Engineer information

See Reston, VA salary details

$80.1K

$98K

$125.9K

How much do aerodynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 16, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerodynamics engineer in Reston, VA is $97,961.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,300.00 and $102,500.00 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.
What are popular job titles related to Aerodynamics Engineer jobs in Reston, VA? For Aerodynamics Engineer jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
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What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Aerodynamics Engineer jobs? Cities near Reston, VA with the most Aerodynamics Engineer job openings:
Infographic showing various Aerodynamics Engineer job openings in Reston, VA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 94% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $97,961 per year, or $47.1 per hour.
Senior Modeling & Simulation Lead Engineer - Remote

Senior Modeling & Simulation Lead Engineer - Remote

Scientific Research Corporation

Alexandria, VA • On-site

$157K - $262K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

This job post has expired today. Applications are no longer accepted.


Job description

Senior Modeling & Simulation Lead Engineer - Remote
Location US-VA-Alexandria
ID 2026-11074
Category Functional Analyst Position Type Regular Full-Time Application Open Date 3/27/2026
Salary Statement
Estimated Starting Salary Range: USD $157,400.00/Yr. - USD $262,300.00/Yr. Salary to be determined by the education, experience, knowledge, skills, and abilities of the applicant, internal equity, and alignment with market data.
Description

Seeking a highly skilled and innovative Senior Modeling & Simulation (M&S) Engineer to provide critical technical oversight for the Department of War (DoW) in the development of next-generation hypersonic systems.

The DoW Test Resource Management Center (TRMC) is at the forefront of fielding advanced capabilities to ensure a decisive edge for the warfighter. This position provides an opportunity to join a premier Systems Engineering and Technical Advisor (SETA) contractor team, guiding government investment in the digital infrastructure that underpins the entire hypersonic test and evaluation enterprise. The ideal candidate is a subject matter expert in multi-physics M&S who is passionate about integrating high-fidelity models with physical test campaigns and leveraging digital engineering to accelerate development.

Key Responsibilities:

Under the oversight of the Chief Engineer, the candidate will:

Serving as the lead technical expert on behalf of the government program office to oversee a portfolio of advanced M&S projects

    Working within a highly collaborative, integrated team of engineers and project managers to ensure the government's technical and programmatic objectives are achieved
  • Providing direct government oversight for the development and integration of the Digital Engineering (DE) elements for high priority hypersonic test and evaluation infrastructure modernization projects
  • Championing the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into physics-based models to enhance predictive capabilities and accelerate analysis
  • Assessing contract performer strategies for creating and maintaining the "Digital Thread," ensuring data continuity from requirements definition in Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) models through design, simulation, test, and operations
  • Providing technical oversight for the development of cloud-based digital engineering environments, ensuring the seamless integration of M&S tools, data repositories, and program management software
  • Conducting detailed technical reviews of contractor-developed M&S tools, methodologies, and validation plans, ensuring they meet government requirements for fidelity and accuracy
  • Assessing contractor performer approaches to multi-physics coupling (e.g., aerodynamics, aerothermodynamics, structural response) and the integration of M&S with physical test data
  • Evaluating and providing technical feedback on the performer's Verification, Validation, and Accreditation (VV&A) plans and results for all models and simulations
  • Serving as a key technical advisor during all performer-driven project reviews, including the System Requirements Review (SRR), Integrated Baseline Review (IBR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), and Technical Interchange Meetings (TIMs), with a focus on M&S-related content
  • Preparing and presenting clear, concise technical assessments, white papers, and recommendations to the Chief Engineer and Government Program Manager regarding M&S development, risks, and opportunities
  • Reviewing and providing technical input on contract deliverables such as the Systems Engineering Plan (SEP), Integrated Master Schedule (IMS), and other program documentation related to M&S
  • Leading the SETA team's efforts to adopt and utilize GenAI and other advanced digital tools to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of technical oversight
  • Communicating complex M&S and digital engineering concepts and findings effectively to both technical and non-technical stakeholders

#LI-HK1

Requirements
  • Bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field and 10+ years of relevant experience
  • Demonstrated expertise in Digital Engineering principles, methodologies, and their application, including direct experience with Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), Digital Thread, and Digital Twin concepts
  • Strong understanding of the components of a digital ecosystem, such as Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) tools, data management and protection, and high-performance computing (HPC) environments and their application to engineering workflows
  • Demonstrated hands-on experience developing or applying advanced computational models (e.g., CFD, FEA, trajectory simulation) to complex aerospace systems
  • Proven expertise in at least one of the following M&S domains: aerodynamics, aerothermodynamics, combustion, or structural mechanics
  • Strong understanding of cloud computing environments (e.g., AWS GovCloud, Azure Government) and their application to engineering workflows
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with demonstrated experience writing detailed technical reports and presenting engineering briefings to communicate status, findings, and risks.
  • Experience working collaboratively in a cross-functional or matrixed engineering team environment
  • Organized, detail-oriented, and able to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Proficiency using Microsoft Office Software including Outlook, Word, PowerPoint, and Excel
  • Currently hold a Secret security clearance
Desired Skills
  • Master's Degree or Ph.D. in a relevant engineering or science discipline
  • Specific experience with M&S of hypersonic, high-temperature, or reacting flow fields
  • Demonstrated understanding of Artificial Intelligence (AI) / Machine Learning (ML) techniques and their application to engineering analysis or data-driven modeling
  • Experience evaluating the technical performance of other Government contractors
  • Familiarity with DoW weapon acquisition programs and the role of T&E in system development
  • Knowledge of large-scale data management strategies and standardized data formats (e.g., HDF5)
  • Hands-on experience with MBSE tools such as Cameo Systems Modeler and proficiency with the Systems Modeling Language (SysML)
  • Familiarity with Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) software (e.g., Windchill) and modern DevSecOps/collaboration tools (e.g., Jira, Confluence, GitLab)
  • Eligibility for a Top Secret security clearance
Clearance Information

SRC IS A CONTRACTOR FOR THE U.S. GOVERNMENT, THIS POSITION WILL REQUIRE U.S. CITIZENSHIP AS WELL AS, A U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITY CLEARANCE AT THE SECRET LEVEL

Travel Requirements
  • Travel approximately 20% of the year (~10 non-consecutive weeks) to performer worksites and government offices to observe development activities and participate in reviews and meetings

About Us

Scientific Research Corporation is an advanced information technology and engineering company that provides innovative products and services to government and private industry, as well as independent institutions. At the core of our capabilities is a seasoned team of highly skilled engineers and scientists with multidisciplinary backgrounds. This team is challenged daily to provide cutting edge technology solutions to our clients.

SRC offers a generous benefit package, including medical, dental, and vision plans, 401(k) with a company match, life insurance, vacation and sick paid time off accruals with amounts increasing based on role and years of service, 11 paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, and a work environment that encourages excellence and more. For positions requiring a security clearance, selected applicants will be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information.

EEO

Scientific Research Corporation is an equal opportunity employer that does not discriminate in employment. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, religion, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state or local law.

Scientific Research Corporation endeavors to make www.scires.com accessible to any and all users. If you would like to contact us regarding the accessibility of our website or need assistance completing the application process, please contact jobs@scires.com for assistance. This contact information is for accommodation requests only and cannot be used to inquire about the status of applications.