Principal Aerodynamicist

Fédération Internationale de l'Automobile (FIA); Greater London; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading organization in motorsport is seeking a Principal Aerodynamicist to join their UK team. This role involves shaping the future of Formula One through innovative aerodynamic research and regulatory development. The successful candidate will work closely with the Head of Aerodynamics, influencing the design and sporting equity of racing cars. Responsibilities include developing methodologies, conducting CFD analyses, and formulating technical regulations. Applicants should have a strong background in aeronautical engineering and extensive experience in F1 environments.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10 years’ experience in F1 aerodynamic development.
• Proficiency in aerodynamic development techniques and methodologies.
• Detailed understanding of F1 Technical Regulations.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to methodologies for future F1 single-seater cars.
• Develop understanding of aerodynamic influences using CFD.
• Analyse and present aerodynamic results for review.

Skills

Communication

Teamwork

Diplomacy

Self-motivated

Creativity

Attention to detail

Fluent English

Education

University Degree in Aeronautical Engineering

Tools

Siemens NX

Dassault CATIA

Python

Job description

The FIA Single Seater Department has an exciting opportunity for a Principal Aerodynamicist to join its UK-based team.

In this role, you will actively shape the future of Formula One (F1) and its feeder series (F2, F3, F4, FRegional) through cutting-edge aerodynamic research and regulatory development.

As a senior member of the FIA aerodynamics team reporting to the Head of Aerodynamics, your work will directly influence the design and sporting equity of current and future generations of single-seater cars.

MISSIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Contribute towards methodologies for determining the fundamental architecture of future F1 (and other) single-seater racing cars
• Develop a detailed understanding of whole-car and multi-car aerodynamic influences through hands-on use of innovative CFD analysis techniques
• Specify representative aerodynamic development conditions, calculation methodologies, and physics models to achieve robust aerodynamic solutions
• Use CAD and coordinate with surface designers to generate geometries that meet performance objectives
• Analyse, report, and present aerodynamic results for internal and external review
• Liaise with aerodynamic research consultants and contractors
• Assist in formulating Technical Regulations to capture desired characteristics for future F1 (and other) single-seater racing cars
• Review and comment on F1 team legality interpretations and participate in CAD-based legality checks of current F1 cars according to published Technical Regulations
• Stay updated on the latest WT and CFD technologies to help steer future regulations related to Aero Testing Restrictions
• Maintain positive relationships with the commercial rights holder and all F1 teams
• Complete all mandatory training within specified timelines
• Operate safely in line with FIA health and safety requirements
• Undertake other duties as assigned by your group manager
• Attend up to 6 race/test events to support scrutineering activities, with training provided for these duties

PROFILE:

• University Degree in Aeronautical Engineering (or equivalent)
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in an F1 aerodynamic development environment
• Proficiency in state-of-the-art aerodynamic (WT and CFD) development techniques and methodologies
• Experience in scheduling, running, analysing, and reporting on F1 aerodynamic experiments
• Detailed understanding of F1 Technical Regulations
• Excellent communication, teamwork, and diplomacy skills
• Self-motivated with the ability to prioritize in challenging deadlines
• Ability to balance creativity and innovation with attention to detail
• Fluent English (written and spoken) with ability to draft technical documentation concisely
• CAD skills in Siemens NX or Dassault CATIA
• Knowledge of current CFD methodologies, capabilities, and limitations
• Software development experience (e.g., Python) is advantageous but not essential

Application deadline: 30th May 2025

If interested, please send your CV and cover letter.

The FIA is committed to diversity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.