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Aerodynamics Performance Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Spire Motorsports

Aerodynamics Engineer

Mooresville, NC · On-site

The Aerodynamics Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end development, analysis, and correlation ... Work directly with vehicle performance, simulation, and race engineering groups to correlate CFD ...

Hermeus

Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA

As an Aerodynamics Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the development of advanced aerodynamic solutions, ensuring optimal performance, stability, and efficiency during high-speed flight. Join ...

Mach Industries

Performance Engineer

San Luis Obispo, CA · On-site

$110K - $150K/yr

They will work daily with aerodynamic, structural and mechanical designers to improve upon current ... engineers to develop the ultimate components. * Develop test procedures for determining performance ...

Hermeus

Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

$91K - $140K/yr

As an Aerodynamics Engineer, you will play a crucial role in the development of advanced aerodynamic solutions, ensuring optimal performance, stability, and efficiency during high-speed flight. Join ...

Joby Aviation

Performance Lead/DER

Santa Cruz, CA · On-site

$126K - $277K/yr

This role will handle planning and execution of aerodynamic performance analysis and testing of air ... Develop engineering tools to complete analysis tasks associated with aircraft development and ...

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Aerodynamics Performance Engineer information

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How much do aerodynamics performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for aerodynamics performance engineer in the United States is $60.11, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49.28 and $68.03 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Aerodynamics Performance Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Aerodynamics Performance Engineer, you need a solid background in fluid dynamics, physics, and engineering principles, often supported by a degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering. Proficiency with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, wind tunnel testing, and data analysis tools is typically required. Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and effective teamwork and communication abilities make individuals stand out in this role. These skills are crucial for accurately analyzing and optimizing aerodynamic performance, directly impacting vehicle efficiency, safety, and innovation.

How does an Aerodynamics Performance Engineer typically collaborate with other engineering teams during a vehicle development project?

Aerodynamics Performance Engineers work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including design, structural, and manufacturing engineers, to optimize vehicle performance. They often participate in regular meetings to present aerodynamic data and propose design modifications based on wind tunnel or CFD analysis. Effective communication is essential, as their recommendations directly influence the work of other teams, such as adjusting body shapes or integrating cooling systems. This collaborative environment helps ensure that aerodynamic improvements align with overall project goals and manufacturing feasibility.

What does an Aerodynamics Performance Engineer do?

An Aerodynamics Performance Engineer specializes in analyzing and optimizing the airflow around vehicles, such as airplanes, cars, or rockets, to enhance their performance, efficiency, and safety. They use computational fluid dynamics (CFD), wind tunnel testing, and data analysis to evaluate how design changes affect aerodynamic properties like drag and lift. Their work helps improve fuel efficiency, stability, and overall performance. These engineers collaborate closely with design, testing, and manufacturing teams to ensure that aerodynamic considerations are integrated throughout the development process.

What is the difference between Aerodynamics Performance Engineer vs Aerodynamics Engineer?

AspectAerodynamics Performance EngineerAerodynamics Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering; CFD certificationsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering; CFD experience
Work EnvironmentDesign labs, wind tunnels, computational simulationsDesign labs, wind tunnels, computational simulations
Employer & Industry UsageAutomotive, aerospace, motorsport industriesAutomotive, aerospace, motorsport industries
Common Search & ComparisonFocuses on performance optimization and testingBroader aerodynamics design and analysis

In summary, an Aerodynamics Performance Engineer specializes in optimizing and testing aerodynamic performance, often with a focus on testing and validation. An Aerodynamics Engineer has a broader role in designing and analyzing aerodynamic systems. Both roles share similar credentials and work environments but differ in their specific focus areas within aerodynamics.

More about Aerodynamics Performance Engineer jobs
What job categories do people searching Aerodynamics Performance Engineer jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Aerodynamics Performance Engineer jobs are:
Aerodynamics Performance Engineer jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerodynamics Performance Engineer job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $125,019 per year, or $60.1 per hour.

Aerodynamics Engineer

Spire Motorsports

Mooresville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Are you ready to be part of a dynamic, passionate team in a rapidly growing company? We're seeking an Aerodynamics Engineer to join our team and contribute to our success. Spire is a forward-thinking company experiencing rapid growth in motorsports. Our team is filled with passionate, dedicated individuals who are committed to excellence and innovation. As we continue to expand, we need talented professionals like you.
Job Summary:
The Aerodynamics Engineer is responsible for the end-to-end development, analysis, and correlation of aerodynamic concepts and components to improve vehicle performance across all racing applications. This role combines simulation, experimental testing, and race data correlation to ensure that aerodynamic upgrades translate to measurable, repeatable on-track performance. The position requires a high degree of technical expertise, collaboration across design and manufacturing functions, and the ability to manage multiple development streams under tight competitive timelines.
Supervisory Responsibilities:
  • None

Key Responsibilities
  • Develop aerodynamic concepts, surfaces, and assemblies using CAD and CFD tools to improve downforce, balance, and efficiency.
  • Perform detailed CFD studies including mesh setup, solver execution, and post-processing to evaluate aerodynamic loads, flow structures, and sensitivity to ride height, yaw, and steer.
  • Lead the design loop from CFD to CAD release, coordinating with Design and Composites to ensure aerodynamic intent is achieved in final manufactured parts.
  • Generate and maintain aero maps and sensitivity plots for each vehicle configuration to inform setup optimization and race strategy.
  • Identify and prioritize aerodynamic development areas based on performance modeling, competitor benchmarking, and regulatory changes.
  • Plan, coordinate, and execute wind tunnel programs including model preparation, instrumentation, calibration, and test matrix development.
  • Analyze wind tunnel data, generate performance summaries, and correlate findings with CFD and track data.
  • Support hardware instrumentation for aero testing, including pressure taps, flow visualization, and load cell measurement systems.
  • Manage part flow, logistics, and configuration tracking for all tunnel tests.
  • Work directly with vehicle performance, simulation, and race engineering groups to correlate CFD and wind tunnel predictions with real-world telemetry and race data.
  • Analyze track test and race event data to validate aero models, identify performance gaps, and recommend setup adjustments.
  • Provide pre-event and post-event aerodynamic performance reports including drag/downforce balance, ride height sensitivities, and trim efficiency.
  • Develop and maintain automation tools for CFD batch processing, post-processing, and aero map generation (Python, MATLAB, etc.).
  • Implement version control, configuration management, and documentation standards for aerodynamic projects.
  • Support development of digital workflows connecting CFD, CAD, and PLM systems to streamline update cycles and data integrity.
  • Work closely with race engineers, vehicle dynamics engineers, and design staff to translate aerodynamic insights into actionable vehicle setup or component recommendations.
  • Engage with suppliers and series partners to ensure compliance with aerodynamic regulations and technical bulletins.
  • Participate in the competitive development cycle by tracking rule updates, homologation windows, and competitor design trends.
  • Contribute to long-term aero development planning and technology roadmaps.
  • Study and analyze competitor trends to understand methodologies.
  • Other duties as assigned

Required Skills/Abilities:
  • Exceptional organizational and project management skills.
  • Analytical and strategic mindset focused on efficiency, quality, and operational excellence.
  • Ability to balance priorities across multiple projects and teams.
  • Familiarity with data acquisition systems, telemetry formats, and simulation environments.
  • Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
  • Strong communication skills with the ability to translate data-driven insights into actionable engineering recommendations.
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure racing environment, including occasional travel to test and race events.

Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field required.
  • Master's degree in Aerodynamics or Computational Fluid Dynamics preferred.
  • 3-7+ years of experience in motorsport, high-performance automotive, or aerospace aerodynamic development.
  • Proven expertise in CFD analysis using STAR-CCM+, ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, or equivalent.
  • Strong CAD skills (Siemens NX, CATIA, SolidWorks) and understanding of design-for-manufacture principles.
  • Hands-on experience in wind tunnel testing and data reduction.
  • Knowledge of race vehicle dynamics, flow visualization techniques, and aero correlation processes.
  • Experience with Python, MATLAB, or other scripting tools for data analysis and automation preferred.
  • Prior experience in NASCAR, IndyCar, IMSA, or other professional motorsport environments highly desirable.

Physical Requirements:
  • Ability to stand, walk, and move in diverse operational environments, including race shops, race tracks, and office environments.
  • Comfortable working in variable environmental conditions, including loud, high-traffic, or high-pressure environments.
  • Prolonged periods working at a computer and in a shop environment.
  • Ability to lift up to 25 pounds regularly and occasionally up to 50 pounds.
  • Frequent bending, kneeling, and accessing low or awkward spaces.
  • Ability to safely work around machinery, shop equipment, and vehicles.

Reasonable Accommodations Statement:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Please note: this role is subject to U.S. export control restrictions. Successful candidates must either be a U.S. Person (defined by U.S. law as U.S. citizen, U.S. permanent resident, asylee, or refugee) or a non-U.S. Person who is eligible to obtain any required export control authorization.
Spire and all affiliated companies are Equal Opportunity employer(s). Minorities, women, veterans, and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. For more information regarding the EEOC, please visit https://www.eeoc.gov/employers/upload/poster_screen_reader_optimized.pdf.
Only direct hires need apply to or inquire about job postings at Spire. We are not accepting calls, resumes or applications from recruiting firms at this time.

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