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Aerodynamics Performance Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Hermeus

Aerodynamics Engineer

Los Angeles, CA · On-site

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 ...

Apply Early

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 ...

Leonardo DRS

Senior Performance Engineer

Fitchburg, MA · On-site

$102K - $159K/yr

This role blends thermodynamic and aerodynamic engineering responsibilities into a single performance-focused position responsible for evaluating energy distribution, flow behavior, efficiency, and ...

CHAOS Industries

Aerodynamics Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

CHAOS is seeking an Aerodynamics Engineer to lead the aerodynamic design, analysis, and flight performance optimization of fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems and missile-class vehicles. This role ...

Leonardo DRS

Senior Performance Engineer

Fitchburg, MA

$102K - $159K/yr

This role blends thermodynamic and aerodynamic engineering responsibilities into a single performance-focused position responsible for evaluating energy distribution, flow behavior, efficiency, and ...

CHAOS Industries

Aerodynamics Engineer

El Segundo, CA · On-site

$160K - $240K/yr

CHAOS is seeking an Aerodynamics Engineer to lead the aerodynamic design, analysis, and flight performance optimization of fixed-wing unmanned aircraft systems and missile-class vehicles. This role ...

Joby Aviation

Performance Lead/DER

Santa Cruz, CA

$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 ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Sciences Engineer

Mojave, CA · Hybrid

Experience with aircraft design and aerodynamic/performance analyses across the speed range from subsonic to hypersonic, is highly desired. As a Flight Science Engineer, you will contribute to a ...

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 ...

Joby Aviation

Performance Lead/DER

Santa Cruz, CA

$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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$11

$60

$98

How much do aerodynamics performance engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 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.

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 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.

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.

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.
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
Aerodynamics Engineer

Aerodynamics Engineer

Hermeus

Los Angeles, CA • On-site

Full-time

Posted 18 hours ago

Be an early applicant

Key responsibilities

  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and refine aerodynamic designs for supersonic to hypersonic vehicles.

  • Conduct computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and analyses to assess aerodynamic performance and behavior.

  • Contribute to wind tunnel testing and experimental data analysis to validate CFD predictions.

Job description

Hermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.

About The Role:

We are seeking an exceptional Aerodynamics Engineer to contribute to the design and analysis of our high super sonic vehicles. 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 our dynamic team and be part of the journey to create groundbreaking aerospace solutions at an iterative pace not seen since the 60's.
Responsibilities:
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to develop and refine aerodynamic designs for supersonic to hypersonic vehicles.
  • Conduct computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and analyses to assess aerodynamic performance and behavior.
  • Design, optimize, and evaluate vehicle configurations for high-speed flight and hypersonic travel.
  • Contribute to wind tunnel testing and experimental data analysis to validate CFD predictions.
  • Participate in the development and implementation of innovative aerodynamic solutions.
  • Work closely with other engineering disciplines to ensure integrated vehicle design and performance.
Requirements:
  • Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • 2+ years of relevant experience in aerodynamics and aerospace engineering.
  • Proficiency in computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and tools.
  • Strong understanding of aerodynamics principles and concepts.
  • Familiarity with aerodynamic design and analysis techniques for high-speed flight.
  • Solid programming skills (Python, MATLAB, etc.) for data analysis and modeling.
  • Effective communication skills and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.
Preferred Skills and Experience:
  • Knowledge of wind tunnel testing and experimental data analysis.
  • Previous experience in experimental programs.
The salary information provided is a general guideline only. Hermeus takes various factors into account, including, but not limited to, the position's scope and responsibilities, the candidate's professional background, education and training, essential skills, and market and business considerations, when presenting a job offer.
 
Salary is only one part of our total compensation and benefits package. Hermeus offers competitive salary and equity, unlimited PTO policy, paid parental leave, potential for year-end bonuses, and more!
 
100% employer-paid health care
401k & Retirement Plans
Unlimited PTO
Weekly Paid Office Lunches
End of Year Bonuses
Fully stocked breakrooms
Stock Options  
Paid Parental Leave
 
 

The salary range listed for this role is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including role scope and responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, key skills, market data, and business needs.

At Hermeus, compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. We offer competitive pay, equity, and a range of benefits designed to support our team.

Benefits:
  • Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid healthcare and pet insurance
  • Financial: Competitive pay, stock options, 401(k) retirement plan, and potential year-end bonuses
  • Time Off: Paid parental leave, 12 federal holidays, unlimited PTO for exempt employees, and generous accrued PTO for non-exempt employees
  • Office Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakrooms
 
U.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS 
The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending. 
 
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY
Hermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.
 

We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.