ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Aerodynamics Performance Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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 ...

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 ...

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 ...

Stratolaunch

Flight Sciences Engineer

Mojave, CA · On-site

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 ...

Lucid Motors

Sr. Engineer, Aerodynamics

Southfield, MI · On-site

$95K - $131K/yr

You will join our Aerodynamics team to contribute to the aerodynamic performance development of our ... engineers, and working with suppliers Qualifications: * 5 + years of related experience with a ...

Lucid Motors

Sr. Engineer, Aerodynamics

Newark, CA · On-site

$140K - $192K/yr

You will join our Aerodynamics team to contribute to the aerodynamic performance development of our ... engineers, and working with suppliers Qualifications: * 5 + years of related experience with a ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

People also search for

All JobsAerodynamics Performance Engineer Jobs

Aerodynamics Performance Engineer information

See salary details

$11

$60

$98

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.
Flight Performance Engineer

Flight Performance Engineer

Corvid Technologies LLC

Mooresville, NC • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago

Job description

Corvid Technologies' Launch Vehicles team is adding an additional engineer to focus on trajectory development and analysis for rocket and missile systems. This position will join a diverse team developing and launching/firing target systems for DoD customers. Candidate will get to work on systems ranging from short range sounding rockets to hypersonic systems.

Candidate will use experience analyzing trajectories with TAOS to provide recommendations to technical and program leadership during development of target systems. The position will work with other engineering teams, including aero, mechanical, and GNC to develop simulation input models used to predict system performance during development. The position will be a key contributor to trade studies that help understand/recommend different rocket and missile configurations - specifically their impact to the intended target representation of the system being developed.

Some sample tasking will include:

  • Preliminary trade studies to understand launch vehicle performance envelope
  • Optimizing a specific configuration to meet nominal trajectory requirements
  • Running Monte Carlo analysis to meet customer and flight safety requirements
  • Providing onsite launch support that includes calculating updated launcher settings for unguided rockets for specific weather conditions during launch windows
  • Post-mission data analysis to assess actual performance and improve models

Requirements:

  • Candidate must be a US Citizen and be eligible to obtain (and maintain) a Secret Clearance
  • Position requires a Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace Engineering (or similar STEM discipline) and technical ability in one or more of the following areas: aerodynamics, structural mechanics, or 6-DOF trajectory modeling
  • Position will require extended travel to launch events, including OCONUS travel as required
  • Experience using TAOS as well as fast running aero tools (DATCOM, TAD7) is a plus
  • Demonstrated understanding of or ability to quickly learn statistics (MC analysis, sensitivity studies, correlation) is desired

About Corvid:

Corvid Technologies is an engineering firm specializing in using high-fidelity, computational modeling and simulation to analyze, design, and manufacture products for aerospace, DoD, and commercial customers. We offer a fast-paced and flexible work environment that encourages creativity and collaboration. Our team works on difficult, cutting-edge technical challenges using state-of-the-art technologies and resources.

Why Corvid:

We value our employee-owners and in addition to providing challenging work opportunities and competitive pay, Corvid believes in providing a strong benefit package that provides value to our team members at all stages of their career.

Our benefits include:

  • Employee Stock Ownership Plan via our generous 401(k) Matching
  • Medical Insurance via Blue Cross - including a PPO and High-Deductible offering (with company HSA contribution)
  • Paid Time Off (PTO) based on years of industry experience (not tenure)
  • Career Development and Continuing Education opportunities
  • Company provided life, long-term, and short-term disability insurance
  • Incentive opportunities to reward strong performance and corporate growth
  • Attractive corporate facilities that include Lake Norman access, kayaks, paddle boards, pickleball courts, grills, and more