Aerodynamicist

Paddock; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 85,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA) in London seeks an experienced Aerodynamicist to drive aero concepts for current and future racing programs. You will lead CFD and wind tunnel workflows, analyze wake interactions, and collaborate closely with design and engineering teams.

The role requires a Master’s in Aeronautical Engineering or related field, 3–5 years of hands-on aero development in top-tier motorsport, and proficiency with Siemens NX or CATIA.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering or closely related field.
• 3–5 years of hands-on aerodynamic development in top-tier motorsport.
• Strong CFD and wind-tunnel understanding with data correlation.

Responsibilities

• Develop whole-car and multi-car aerodynamic concepts and performance.
• Formulate and validate development methodologies and physics models.
• Contribute to future aero architectures for single-seat racing platforms.
• Provide aero analysis, reporting and technical presentations to stakeholders.

Skills

CFD

Wind Tunnel

Python

Education

Master’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

CATIA

Job description

# AerodynamicistFédération Internationale de l'AutomobileLONDON, United KingdomPosted 30 Sept 2026## About this roleMISSIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:The role is structured around three core operational pillars:Aerodynamic Concept & Whole-Car Development (~50–60%)- Whole-Car & Multi-Car Aerodynamic Behaviour: Develop a detailed understanding of whole-car and multi-car aerodynamic behaviour through hands-on use of advanced CFD analysis techniques, directly investigating wake interactions to foster close, competitive racing.- Fundamental Architecture of Future Generations: Contribute to developing methodologies to determine the fundamental architecture and aerodynamic concepts of future single-seater Formula cars (F1, F2, F3, FRegional, and F4)- Development Conditions & Methodologies: Specify the aerodynamic development conditions, calculation methodologies, and physics models to ensure robust and representative aerodynamic solutions, leveraging cloud-based HPC infrastructure.- CAD Scheming & Geometry Generation: Hands-on use of CAD (Siemens NX) and coordination with the FIA’s surface designers to generate geometries and concept models to meet agreed performance objectives, scheme rapid design iterations, and eliminate development bottlenecks.- Aerodynamic Analysis & Reporting: Analyse, report, and present aerodynamic results to internal and external audiences, including FIA colleagues, the commercial rights holder, and the technical leadership of the Formula 1 teams.Technical Regulations (~20–25%)- Formulation of Technical Regulations: Assist in the formulation of the Technical Regulations to capture the desired characteristics, safety targets, and sporting objectives of future Formula 1 cars.- Legality Interpretations & Team Queries: Review and comment on Formula 1 team legality interpretations, evaluating unconventional competitor proposals and design queries against the published regulations.- CAD-Based Legality Assessment: Participate in CAD-based legality assessments and compliance audits of current Formula 1 cars against the published Technical Regulations.- Trackside & Scrutineering Support: Attend 2 to 3 race/test events as required to provide general support for scrutineering activities (for which the successful candidate will be trained.Advanced Technology & Tools Exploration (~15–20%)- Aero Testing Restrictions (ATR) Evolution: Remain abreast of the latest Wind Tunnel (WT) and CFD technologies to help steer the future direction of Technical and Operational Regulations relating to Aero Testing Restrictions.- Emerging Tech & Startup Engagement: Collaborate with external technology providers, simulation startups, and research institutions to trial emerging aerodynamic and simulation tools- Internal Tool Development: Develop, automate, and maintain internal aerodynamic post-processing tools, simulation scripts, and data analysis pipelines to continually enhance departmental workflow efficiency.PROFILE:- University Degree (Master’s or equivalent preferred) in Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline.- Minimum 3 to 5 years of hands-on aerodynamic development experience within Formula 1, World Endurance Championship (WEC), or high-level single-seater racing.- In-depth understanding of aerodynamic development workflows, along with practical knowledge of the strengths, limitations, and correlation of both CFD and Wind Tunnel testing.- Proven proficiency in CAD design using Siemens NX or Dassault Systèmes CATIA.- Demonstrated experience in planning, running, analyzing, and synthesizing complex aerodynamic campaigns with rigorous attention to detail and schedule autonomy.- Detailed knowledge of the current Formula 1 Technical Regulations and Aerodynamic Testing Restrictions (ATR) is a strong advantage.- Familiarity with cloud-based simulation environments (HPC), data pipelines, and scientific programming languages (ideally Python) is desirable.- Strong collaborative mindset, autonomy under tight deadlines, and the ability to adapt technical presentations for a wide spectrum of stakeholders.- Native or fluent proficiency in written and spoken English, including the ability to draft clear, concise technical and regulatory documentation.If you are interested, please send your application in PDF format.Deadline to Apply: October 14th, 2026The FIA is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.