Phd Cfd Computational Engineer Jobs in Colorado (NOW HIRING)

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.