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Applied Aerodynamics Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aero/Thermal Engineer

Newport News, VA ยท On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Applied R Test Articles and Critical System Components; Test Facility Design & Build; Test Services ... Perform aerodynamic field surveys of existing facilities and prepare and perform commissioning and ...

CFD Engineer

Mojave, CA ยท On-site +1

... applied graduate work * Proficiency in CFD meshing techniques using tools such as Pointwise, ANSA, or Link3D to generate high-quality meshes for complex geometries * Strong foundation in aerodynamics ...

Aero/Thermal Engineer

Minneapolis, MN ยท On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Applied R Test Articles and Critical System Components; Test Facility Design & Build; Test Services ... Perform aerodynamic field surveys of existing facilities and prepare and perform commissioning and ...

Aero/Thermal Engineer

Saint Paul, MN ยท On-site

$80K - $130K/yr

Applied R Test Articles and Critical System Components; Test Facility Design & Build; Test Services ... Perform aerodynamic field surveys of existing facilities and prepare and perform commissioning and ...

This position will provide you with an exciting opportunity to join Applied Multiphysics projects ... aerodynamics/fluid dynamics engineers. * Aids in the production of complete, detailed drawing ...

This position will provide you with an exciting opportunity to join Applied Multiphysics projects ... aerodynamics/fluid dynamics engineers. * Aids in the production of complete, detailed drawing ...

CFD Engineer

Mojave, CA ยท On-site

... applied graduate work * Proficiency in CFD meshing techniques using tools such as Pointwise, ANSA, or Link3D to generate high-quality meshes for complex geometries * Strong foundation in aerodynamics ...

Senior Performance Engineer

Fitchburg, MA ยท On-site

$102K - $159K/yr

... aerodynamic analysis, or integrated performance analysis of turbine or turbo machinery systems. * Proficiency in compressible fluid flow, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and thermodynamics as applied ...

Senior Performance Engineer

Fitchburg, MA ยท On-site

$102K - $159K/yr

... aerodynamic analysis, or integrated performance analysis of turbine or turbo machinery systems. * Proficiency in compressible fluid flow, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and thermodynamics as applied ...

Showing results 41-60

Applied Aerodynamics information

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$77K

$94.2K

$121K

How much do applied aerodynamics jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for applied 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 are some typical challenges faced by professionals in applied aerodynamics when working on multidisciplinary teams?

Professionals in applied aerodynamics often collaborate closely with structural engineers, propulsion specialists, and manufacturing teams. One common challenge is balancing aerodynamic performance with structural integrity and manufacturability, which may require compromise and creative problem-solving. Effective communication is crucial, as differing technical languages and priorities can sometimes lead to misunderstandings. Staying adaptable and open to feedback from other disciplines helps ensure that the final design meets both performance and practical requirements.

What is applied aerodynamics?

Applied aerodynamics is the study and practical application of how air moves around objects, particularly vehicles like airplanes, cars, and rockets. Professionals in this field use principles of fluid dynamics to design and optimize the shapes, surfaces, and control systems of these vehicles to improve performance, efficiency, and safety. Applied aerodynamics blends theoretical analysis, experimental testing, and computer simulations to solve real-world engineering challenges. This field is crucial in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and renewable energy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an applied aerodynamics engineer?

To thrive as an Applied Aerodynamics Engineer, you need a strong background in fluid dynamics, aerospace engineering, and mathematics, usually supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, wind tunnel testing, and CAD tools is typically required, along with knowledge of industry standards. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork abilities help you collaborate effectively and present complex findings. These skills are crucial for optimizing aircraft performance, ensuring safety, and advancing innovative aerodynamic solutions.

What is the difference between Applied Aerodynamics vs Aeronautical Engineer?

AspectApplied AerodynamicsAeronautical Engineer
CredentialsTypically requires a degree in aerospace, mechanical engineering, or related fieldsRequires a degree in aerospace engineering or similar, often with specialization in aerodynamics
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, testing facilities, simulation centersDesign offices, manufacturing plants, testing facilities
Industry UsageFocuses on analyzing and improving aerodynamic performanceDesigns and develops aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems

Applied Aerodynamics primarily involves analyzing and optimizing airflow around objects, often through simulations and testing. Aeronautical Engineers have a broader role in designing entire aircraft and systems, with aerodynamics being a key component. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and often collaborate within the aerospace industry.

More about Applied Aerodynamics jobs
What job categories do people searching Applied Aerodynamics jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Applied Aerodynamics jobs are:
Infographic showing various Applied Aerodynamics job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 72% Full Time, 26% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 10% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $94,162 per year, or $45.3 per hour.

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Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Description

Would you be interested in the multi-disciplinary design and evaluation of advanced systems?

Are you looking for meaningful work developing systems that use innovative technologies to support our warfighters while working with an employer that prioritizes impact, innovation, and personal development?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are seeking a creative, motivated engineer to help us develop simulations of US weapons, threat missiles, and submersibles. You will have opportunities to develop groundbreaking solutions to the nation's toughest multidisciplinary problems. Our group has a well-rounded mix of people that like to explore, build, share, invent, and collaborate.

As a Concept Design Engineer, every day will bring exciting new challenges, including:

  • Connecting with other teams to participate in the full pipeline of system development, from conception to integration.
  • Contributing to and possibly leading technical teams to develop and run models in a variety of fields including aerodynamics, trajectory, mechanical design, controls, materials, and more.
  • Developing and running design and performance models for different systems, including missiles, hypersonics, autonomous aerial vehicles, autonomous underwater vehicles, and submersibles.
  • Developing algorithms and constraints based on real-world limitations that enable a multi-disciplinary design process.
  • Solving multi-objective system design optimization challenges to provide sponsors with the best solutions.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

  • Possess at least a Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or another related technical field with 5 years technical experience
  • Have at least 2 years of experience executing multi-disciplinary conceptual design analyses.
  • Have the capability to independently develop models, execute technical analysis, compile and validate results, and present to external sponsors.
  • Have a general understanding of optimization techniques such as Genetic Algorithms and statistical methodologies such as Monte Carlo and Design of Experiments (DOE).
  • Have significant experience with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, and/or C++.
  • Have some background in several subject areas such as guidance, control, aerodynamics, trajectory, structures, and/or propulsion.
  • Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You'll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

  • Possess a Master's degree or PhD in Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, or another related technical field.
  • Have 10+ years of technical experience.
  • Have a background in researching and developing vehicle designs for multiple applications, including missiles, hypersonics, autonomous aerial vehicles, autonomous underwater vehicles, and submersibles.
  • Have an ability to absorb perspectives of a sophisticated system that may be unfamiliar to you from assorted team members and form them into a cohesive system-level view.
  • Have experience in balancing analysis fidelity to answer questions.
  • Show that you can recognize when design problems are too complex and require a change in paradigm or when refocused research questions are needed.
  • Have enough depth with numerical methods to understand/bypass potential shortfalls and can choose well-suited algorithms for a given problem.
  • Hold a DoD Secret Clearance.

About Us

Why Work at APL?

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new ideas. Our employees enjoy generous benefits, including a robust education assistance program, unparalleled retirement contributions, and a healthy work/life balance. APL's campus is located in the Baltimore-Washington metro area. Learn more about our career opportunities athttps://www.jhuapl.edu/careers.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contactAccessibility@jhuapl.edu.

The referenced pay range is based on JHU APL's good faith belief at the time of posting. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as geographic location, work experience, market conditions, education/training and skill level with consideration for internal parity. For salaried employees scheduled to work less than 40 hours per week, annual salary will be prorated based on the number of hours worked. APL may offer bonuses or other forms of compensation per internal policy and/or contractual designation. Additional compensation may be provided in the form of a sign-on bonus, relocation benefits, locality allowance or discretionary payments for exceptional performance. APL provides eligible staff with a comprehensive benefits package including retirement plans, paid time off, medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short-term disability, long-term disability, flexible spending accounts, education assistance, and training and development. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.


Minimum Rate
$100,000 Annually
Maximum Rate
$245,000 Annually