Principal Aerodynamicist

Motorsport Network; London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An exciting opportunity awaits for a Principal Aerodynamicist to join a leading organization in the motorsport industry. This role involves shaping the future of Formula One through innovative aerodynamic research and regulatory development. As a senior member of the team, you will influence the design and performance of single-seater racing cars, utilizing cutting-edge CFD techniques and collaborating closely with various stakeholders. Your expertise in aerodynamics will be crucial in developing methodologies and ensuring compliance with technical regulations. Join a dynamic team where your contributions will drive the future of motorsport.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in F1 aerodynamic development.
• Proficient in CFD and wind tunnel methodologies.
• Strong CAD skills and understanding of F1 regulations.

Responsibilities

• Develop aerodynamic methodologies for F1 racing cars.
• Analyze and present aerodynamic results for review.
• Liaise with teams and assist in drafting Technical Regulations.

Skills

Aerodynamic Development

CFD Analysis

Technical Regulations Knowledge

Communication Skills

Teamwork

Creativity and Innovation

Attention to Detail

Time Management

English Proficiency

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.

MISSIONSAND 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 of CAD and coordination of surface designers to generate geometries to achieve agreed performance objectives.
• Analyse, report, and present aerodynamic results for both internal and external review
• Liaise with aerodynamic research consultants and contractors
• Assist in the formulation of Technical Regulations to capture the desired characteristics for future F1 (and other) single-seater racing cars
• Review and comment upon F1 team legality interpretations and participate in CAD-based legality checking of current F1 cars according to published Technical Regulations
• Remain abreast of the latest WT and CFD technologies, to help steer the future direction of Technical and Operational Regulations relating to Aero Testing Restrictions
• Maintain a positive relationship with the commercial rights holder and all F1 teams
• Complete all mandatory training within the specified timelines
• Operate safely and in line with the FIA health and safety requirements at all times
• Undertake other duties within your capabilities as your group manager may assign to you from time to time
• Attend up to 6 race/test events to provide general support for scrutineering activities, for which the successful candidate will be trained

PROFILE:

• University Degree in Aeronautical Engineering (or equivalent)
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in an F1 aerodynamic development environment
• Use of state-of-the-art aerodynamic (WT and CFD) development techniques and methodologies
• Current experience of scheduling, running, analysing, and reporting of F1 aerodynamic experiments
• Detailed understanding of F1 Technical Regulations
• Excellent communication, teamwork and diplomacy skills.
• Self-motivated with the ability to prioritise ever-changing workloads within challenging deadlines.
• Ability to balance creativity and innovation with excellent attention to detail.
• Native or fluent English (written and spoken) with ability to concisely draft and appraise technical documentation.
• CAD skills in either Siemens NX or Dassault CATIA software.
• Knowledge of current CFD code methodologies, capabilities and limitations.
• Software development experience is an advantage, but not essential (eg Python).

Application deadline -30th May 2025
If you are interested, please send us yourCV and cover letter !

The FIA is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce. We welcome and encourage applications from all qualified candidates.