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Aerodynamics Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Natilus

Aerodynamics and Performance Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Natilus is seeking an Aerodynamics & Performance Engineer to join our team in San Diego, CA. In this role, you will conduct CFD analysis and support low- and high-speed wind tunnel testing. You will ...

Natilus

Aerodynamics and Performance Engineer

San Diego, CA · On-site

$120K - $170K/yr

Natilus is seeking an Aerodynamics & Performance Engineer to join our team in San Diego, CA. In this role, you will conduct CFD analysis and support low- and high-speed wind tunnel testing. You will ...

Relativity Space

Sr Aerodynamics Engineer

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$132K - $181K/yr

Guide and mentor responsible hardware engineers to ensure hardware meets aerodynamics and system-level requirements * Mature Relativity's tools for developing and communicating aerodynamics data ...

General Atomics

Engineer VI

Poway, CA · On-site

$116K - $208K/yr

We are seeking an experienced Propulsion Aerodynamics Engineer in Poway, CA. to provide technical leadership in integrating Turbofan, Turboprop, and Hybrid Electric engines into military aircraft.

General Atomics

Engineer V

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

We have an exciting opportunity for an Aero Performance Engineer in the San Diego (Poway, CA) area ... Responsibilities include conceptual sizing and preliminary design, aerodynamic and performance ...

Lockheed Martin Corporation

$101K - $132K/yr

What You Will Be Doing The GNC Engineer/Aerodynamicist will be an integral part of the combined Aerodynamic and GNC team performing simulation and modeling of missile 6DOF Integrated Flight ...

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How much do aerodynamics engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerodynamics engineer in the United States is $94,162.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $83,000.00 and $98,500.00 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 engineers make $300,000 a year?

Senior aerospace engineers, including aerodynamics engineers working in the aerospace industry, can earn $300,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High-level engineers often hold advanced degrees, certifications, and work in specialized or executive positions within large companies or government agencies.

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.

How much does an aerodynamics engineer make?

The average salary for an aerodynamics engineer varies by experience and location but typically ranges from $70,000 to $130,000 annually. Senior engineers with specialized skills or working in high-demand industries can earn higher salaries, often exceeding $150,000. Certifications in aerospace or related fields can also influence earning potential.

What do aerodynamics engineers do?

Aerodynamics engineers analyze and improve the airflow around objects such as aircraft, vehicles, or turbines to enhance performance and efficiency. They use computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and wind tunnel testing to develop designs that reduce drag and increase stability, often working closely with design teams and applying principles of physics and engineering.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers, including those specializing in aerodynamics, can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced skills, and leadership roles. High compensation often involves working in the aerospace industry for major companies or in consulting, with additional earnings from bonuses and stock options.
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Aerodynamics Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerodynamics Engineer job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 99% Full Time, and 1% Part Time. Highlights an 87% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,162 per year, or $45.3 per hour.
Engineer or Principal Engineer Aeronautical - Stores Aerodynamics

Engineer or Principal Engineer Aeronautical - Stores Aerodynamics

Northrop Grumman Corporation

El Segundo, CA • On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Life, PTO

Posted 26 days ago

Northrop Grumman rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 340 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

109th of 518 rated manufacturers

Job description

RELOCATION ASSISTANCE: Relocation assistance may be available
CLEARANCE REQUIRED FOR START: Yes
CLEARANCE TYPE: Secret
TRAVEL: Yes, 10% of the TimeDescription
At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible. Our employees are not only part of history, they're making history.
Northrop Grumman Aeronautics Systems is hiring an Engineer or Principal Engineer Aeronautical to join our Vehicle Engineering organization of qualified, diverse individuals in El Segundo, CA or Melbourne, FL.
We are seeking an experienced aerodynamics engineer to join our team in analyzing next-generation aerodynamic stores integration and Air Vehicle aerodynamics. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerodynamics and a passion for developing innovative solutions to improve flight performance.
Responsibilities:
  • Perform aerodynamic characterization efforts utilizing analytical methods
  • Perform analytical stores trajectory and separation analyses
  • Provide technical analysis data for data reports and other Airworthiness artifacts required to support flight clearances and certification
  • Support execution of wind tunnel test events including two-body separation testss
  • Support ground and flight test events, acquisition and analysis of test data
  • General frequent use and application of technical standards, principles, theories, concepts and advanced techniques
  • Demonstrates the skill and ability to perform complex professional tasks
  • Innovates solutions to a variety of technical challenges of increasing scope and complexity
  • Work closely with other disciplines including Configuration, Aerodynamics, S&RE, Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), Mechanisms, etc.
  • Utilize excellent communication skills to report program milestones, technical approaches, and findings to leads, program management, and customer

This role can be filled as an Engineer (level 2) or Principal Engineer (level 3) depending on the qualifications below.
Basic Qualifications:
  • Basic qualifications for an Engineer Aeronautical include a Bachelor's in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) and at least 2 years of relevant experience, a Master's Degree in STEM with no years of experience.
  • Basic qualifications for a Principal Engineer Aeronautical include a Bachelor's in Science, Technology, Engineering or Math (STEM) and at least 5 years of relevant experience, a Master's Degree in STEM with 3 years of relevant experience, or a PhD Degree with no experience.
  • Knowledge of fixed-wing aircraft aerodynamics
  • Experience with using aerodynamic tools and techniques
  • Experience using MATLAB to create, process, analyze, and visually represent data
  • Must have an active US Government Secret or higher clearance (with a background investigation completed within the last 6 years or currently enrolled into Continuous Evaluation)
  • Must have the ability to obtain and maintain Special Access Program (SAP) clearance prior to the commencement of employment

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Degree discipline in Aerospace or Aeronautical Engineering with concentration in aerodynamics
  • Experience with generating aerodynamic databases for 6-DOF simulation
  • Experience in conducting 6-DOF stores trajectory and separation analyses
  • Experience with onsite support of wind tunnel testing and data acquisition systems
  • Experience in supporting ground and flight test events and analyzing collected data
  • Experience with DOD safety board processes for store separation
  • Fortran, C/C++ and/or Python programming skills
  • Demonstrated record of working hard, strong communication skills, and being accountable

Primary Level Salary Range: $79,300.00 - $137,600.00
Secondary Level Salary Range: $98,400.00 - $171,000.00
The above salary range represents a general guideline; however, Northrop Grumman considers a number of factors when determining base salary offers such as the scope and responsibilities of the position and the candidate's experience, education, skills and current market conditions.
Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay. Annual bonuses are designed to reward individual contributions as well as allow employees to share in company results. Employees in Vice President or Director positions may be eligible for Long Term Incentives. In addition, Northrop Grumman provides a variety of benefits including health insurance coverage, life and disability insurance, savings plan, Company paid holidays and paid time off (PTO) for vacation and/or personal business.
The application period for the job is estimated to be 20 days from the job posting date. However, this timeline may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates.
Northrop Grumman is an Equal Opportunity Employer, making decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, national origin, age, veteran status, disability, or any other protected class. For our complete EEO and pay transparency statement, please visit http://www.northropgrumman.com/EEO. U.S. Citizenship is required for all positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

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About Northrop Grumman

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At Northrop Grumman, our employees have incredible opportunities to work on revolutionary systems that impact people's lives around the world today, and for generations to come. Our pioneering and inventive spirit has enabled us to be at the forefront of many technological advancements in our nation's history - from the first flight across the Atlantic Ocean, to stealth bombers, to landing on the moon. We look for people who have bold new ideas, courage and a pioneering spirit to join forces to invent the future, and have fun along the way. Our culture thrives on intellectual curiosity, cognitive diversity and bringing your whole self to work - and we have an insatiable drive to do what others think is impossible.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Falls Church, VA, US

Year founded

1939

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