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Aerodynamics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Lucid Motors

Sr. Engineer, Aerodynamics

Southfield, MI

$95K - $131K/yr

You will join our Aerodynamics team to contribute to the aerodynamic performance development of our vehicles. Our ideal candidate exhibits a can-do attitude and approaches his or her work with vigor ...

Relativity Space

Sr Aerodynamics Engineer

Long Beach, CA

$109K - $150K/yr

Scope and develop aerodynamics databases for ascent and entry including uncertainty quantification from CFD, wind tunnel, and empirical data sources * Drive the design of major Terran R system ...

GE Aerospace

Lead Engineer - Aerodynamics

Bohemia, NY · On-site

$114K - $152K/yr

As a Lead Engineer - Aerodynamics, you will be focused on developing prediction methods and technologies to improve aerodynamic, aero-acoustic, aero-mechanical, and thermal performance for various GE ...

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.

Wisk

Sr. Staff Aerodynamics Engineer

Mountain View, CA

$193K - $241K/yr

We are looking for a Sr. Staff Aerodynamics Engineer to join our Aerodynamic Analysis Team. The goal of an Aerodynamics Engineer at Wisk is to ensure that our vehicle performs as safely and ...

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How much do aerodynamics jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for aerodynamics 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 job involve?

An aerodynamics job focuses on analyzing and optimizing the performance of vehicles, primarily in aerospace and automotive industries, by studying airflow behavior. Professionals in this field use computational simulations, wind tunnel testing, and mathematical models to reduce drag, improve stability, and enhance fuel efficiency. Typical roles include aerodynamic engineers, CFD analysts, and wind tunnel test engineers. These specialists work closely with design and engineering teams to ensure optimal aerodynamic performance in real-world applications.

What job is aerodynamics?

A job in aerodynamics involves studying and applying the principles of airflow around objects, such as aircraft, vehicles, or turbines. Aerodynamics professionals often work in aerospace, automotive, or engineering fields, using tools like computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software and conducting wind tunnel tests. The role typically requires a background in engineering or physics and may involve designing, testing, and optimizing aerodynamic performance.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the Aerodynamics position, and why are they important?

To thrive in Aerodynamics, you need a strong background in fluid dynamics, physics, and mathematics, typically supported by an engineering degree or related qualification. Proficiency with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, wind tunnel testing tools, and simulation platforms is vital. Excellent problem-solving, teamwork, and communication skills are essential for collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and presenting findings. These skills and qualities are important to ensure innovative and efficient aerodynamic designs that meet safety, performance, and regulatory standards.

What does a typical day look like for someone working in Aerodynamics?

A typical day in Aerodynamics often involves running simulations using CFD software, analyzing test data from wind tunnels or prototypes, and collaborating with engineers from other disciplines such as mechanical or structural engineering. Professionals frequently participate in team meetings to discuss project progress, troubleshoot design challenges, and refine concepts based on experimental results. You may also be responsible for documenting your analysis and presenting findings to stakeholders or clients. The work environment is typically a mix of office-based technical modeling and hands-on testing, offering a dynamic and engaging routine.

How much do aerodynamicists earn?

Aerodynamicists typically earn a median annual salary ranging from $70,000 to $120,000, depending on experience, education, and industry sector. Senior roles or positions in aerospace and automotive industries can offer higher compensation, often exceeding $150,000 with specialized skills and certifications.

What engineers make $500,000?

Senior aerospace engineers specializing in aerodynamics can earn $500,000 or more annually, especially with extensive experience, advanced degrees, and leadership roles in the industry. High compensation is often associated with work at major aerospace or defense companies, or in consulting positions requiring specialized skills and certifications.

What jobs pay $500,000 a year in the US?

In the field of aerodynamics, high-paying roles such as senior aerospace engineers, research directors, or chief technical officers at major aerospace or defense companies can reach or exceed $500,000 annually, especially with bonuses and stock options. These positions typically require advanced degrees, extensive experience, and expertise in computational fluid dynamics, simulation tools, and project management.
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Aerodynamics jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aerodynamics job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 97% Full Time, and 3% Part Time. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,162 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

Senior Aerodynamics CFD Engineer

Executive Recruiting Group

Boulder, CO • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 9 days ago

Job description

We are seeking a Senior Aerodynamics/CFD Engineer for our Boulder, Colorado location. This role can be remote with travel.

Responsibilities

  • Design, loft and optimize components that affect the aircraft aerodynamics and outer mold line (OML).
  • Build models, clean CAD geometry, and generate computational meshes to run CFD simulations that:
  • Inform aircraft trade studies and configuration design decisions using appropriately fidelity levels.
  • Support aerodynamic design across all phases, from concept development through certification.
  • Develop and maintain high-fidelity aerodynamic databases for performance prediction, external-loads analysis, and real-time six-degree-of-freedom (6-DOF) simulations.
  • Correlate and validate CFD results against simulations of varying fidelity (e.g. cross-code comparisons, wind-tunnel testing, and flight-test data). Iterate models as new data becomes available.
  • Post-process and analyze simulation and test data. Summarize results in reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, as needed.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams (performance, acoustics, loads, stability and control, control laws, systems, and instrumentation) to define simulation parameters and requirements, ensure model accuracy, and provide CFD expertise to guide design decisions.
  • Develop and improve the software methods, tools, and workflows that support aerodynamic modeling.
  • Support verification and validation activities that rely on model outputs (e.g., failure hazard assessments (FHAs)).
  • Train and mentor junior aerodynamics engineers.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

  • B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in aeronautical engineering or a related field
  • 15+ years of experience with a B.S., 10+ years with an M.S., or 8+ years with a Ph.D. modeling subsonic, fixed-wing aerodynamics using CFD and validating results with wind-tunnel experiments
  • Expert-level knowledge of subsonic, fixed-wing aerodynamics; strong theoretical background in fluid mechanics and CFD
  • Experience with surface parameterization and aerodynamic shape optimization
  • Experience in turbulence modeling, boundary-layer transition, unsteady aerodynamics, and interference aerodynamics
  • Strong competence running NASA OVERFLOW and/or FUN3D CFD software (RANS flow solvers)
  • Proficiency in 3D surface and volume meshing using structured overset meshes and/or unstructured tetrahedral/hexahedral meshes
  • Proficiency in lofting aircraft in 3D CAD software (e.g., CATIA, NX) and applying CAD cleanup tools
  • Proficiency in Python and/or MATLAB scripting
  • Experience working with external partners and suppliers on development projects
  • Familiarity with software development best practices and version control (Git)
  • Good knowledge of high-performance computing (HPC) hardware and software
  • Strong technical, written, and verbal communication skills
  • Ability to work well both collaboratively and independently
  • Experience in a fast-paced design environment

Preferred Qualifications

  • Aerodynamics design experience on a large transport/freighter/cargo category aircraft
  • Familiarity with aircraft certification standards (14 CFR Part 25 or Part 23), preferably having been through an airplane development and certification program
  • Familiarity with cloud computing platforms
  • Experience planning and executing wind-tunnel test campaigns to validate CFD and aerodynamic predictions
  • Proficiency in MATLAB
  • Experience mentoring junior aerodynamics engineers in CFD

Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus mental health support with 24/7 counseling, virtual therapy, and the Calm app.
  • Employer-paid life and disability insurance, voluntary critical illness and accident coverage, and a 401(k)-retirement savings plan.
  • Health Care FSA and HSA options with tax advantages and rollover features.
  • Employees working from Boulder office enjoy complimentary lunch on any day they work onsite.
  • Additional benefits include Employee Assistance Program, caregiver support, discounted fitness memberships, educational assistance, training programs, adoption assistance, commuter benefits, and exclusive discounts through Perks at Work.