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Wind Tunnel Test Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Aero-Optics Engineer

Huntsville, AL · On-site

$120K - $155K/yr

... wind tunnel test facilities and flight test vehicles. While direct experience with aero-optics ... Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical area5 years minimum ...

$153K - $218K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Aerospace Test Engineer will lead advanced aerospace experimentation efforts. They will ... Direct experience with relevant test facilities such as wind tunnels * Direct experience with ...

$153K - $218K/yr

  • Medical

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Senior Aerospace Test Engineer will lead advanced aerospace experimentation efforts. They will ... Direct experience with relevant test facilities such as wind tunnels * Direct experience with ...

Program Manager

Saint Paul, MN · On-site

$100K - $180K/yr

... wind tunnel test facilities, which are part of a larger campus. This is a highly collaborative role requiring coordination with other internal program managers, engineering disciplines and technical ...

Plan and run wind-tunnel campaigns: test matrix, model and sting design, blockage corrections ... B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Math, Physics, or related. M.S. or ...

Engineer V

Poway, CA · On-site

$105K - $189K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Retirement

Take part in wind tunnel and flight test planning, execution, and post-test analysis. * Conduct trade studies and carry out sensitivity analyses to inform high-level engineering design decisions.

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Wind Tunnel Test Engineer information

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How much do wind tunnel test engineer jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for wind tunnel test engineer in the United States is $44.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33.41 and $52.40 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a wind tunnel test engineer do?

A Wind Tunnel Test Engineer is responsible for planning, conducting, and analyzing aerodynamic tests using wind tunnels to evaluate the performance of aircraft, vehicles, or other objects. They design test setups, install instrumentation, and collect data on airflow, forces, and pressures. Their work helps improve designs by identifying areas where efficiency, stability, or safety can be enhanced. Engineers in this role collaborate with designers, researchers, and other engineers to interpret results and refine prototypes.

What are some typical responsibilities of a wind tunnel test engineer during a test campaign?

As a Wind Tunnel Test Engineer, you will be involved in planning, setting up, and conducting aerodynamic tests on models or components within the tunnel. Your duties include configuring instrumentation, calibrating sensors, ensuring test safety protocols are followed, and collecting and analyzing complex data sets. You’ll collaborate closely with design engineers, researchers, and technicians to interpret results and troubleshoot issues in real-time. This role offers a dynamic blend of hands-on technical work and teamwork, helping advance the development of vehicles, aircraft, or other products requiring aerodynamic evaluation.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a wind tunnel test engineer?

Wind Tunnel Test Engineers require a strong background in aerodynamics, mechanical or aerospace engineering, and data analysis, generally supported by a relevant engineering degree. Expertise with wind tunnel instrumentation, control systems, CAD software, and data acquisition tools is essential, and familiarity with industry standards or certifications such as ASME may be beneficial. Excellent problem-solving abilities, collaboration, and clear technical communication distinguish top performers in this role. These competencies enable precise and reliable testing, informed data interpretation, and effective teamwork in delivering insightful aerodynamic analyses.

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Infographic showing various Wind Tunnel Test Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 80% Full Time, 16% Contract, and 4% Nights. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $92,027 per year, or $44.2 per hour.

$127K - $164K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 9 days ago


Job description

Summary:

Polaris Sensor Technologies is seeking an Aero-Optics Engineer to support multiple efforts in the nation's missile defense capabilities including Golden Dome. This position includes developing optical instrumentation for integration into one-of-a-kind hypersonic wind tunnel test facilities and flight test vehicles. While direct experience with aero-optics instrumentation, wind tunnel testing, or data analysis and modeling would be a plus, we are seeking self-motivated candidates with experience and capability in the areas listed below. This position will involve significant hands-on laboratory work. This position involves interaction with team members and requires experience with optical analysis, including a solid physical optics background as well as geometrical optics understanding. Applicants should be confident in laboratory skills involving optical systems integration, assembly, setup, calibration, and operation. A successful applicant is able to work well in teams, is eager to learn, and is able to clearly communicate and document their work. Mid-level candidates will contribute as key technical team members, and more experienced candidates may be considered for project leadership opportunities.

Responsibilities

  • Design, construct, and test optical systems intended to measure aero-optics, optical window effects, and physical optics effects
  • Collect and analyze data from the above-mentioned systems
  • Use software tools to design, evaluate, and modify imaging systems
  • Use laboratory measurement tools and systems
  • Support testing activities at hypersonic wind tunnel facilities
  • Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues independently
  • Develop comprehensive and detailed reports

Required Qualifications

  • Strong communication skills, both oral and written
  • Disciplined approach to laboratory work with strong attention to detail
  • Good organizational skills
  • Bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in Optical Science, Optical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related technical area
  • 5 years minimum demonstrated experience in a technical field

Preferred Qualifications

  • Hardware Systems Assembly
  • Systems Engineering
  • Planning and/or Performing Laboratory Tests
  • Optical Design (Zemax)
  • Mechanical Design