Senior Flight Performance & Aerodynamics Lead

Gattaca; Greater London; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Gattaca is seeking a Senior/Principal Performance & Aerodynamics Engineer to lead flight performance analysis, aerodynamic modelling and trajectory simulation within a cutting-edge defence-focused programme in the UK. You will influence programme direction, lead CFD studies and propulsion integration work, and mentor engineers as part of a fast-moving, highly automated team.

You will operate across 3DoF/6DoF simulations, develop analytical and computational models, and interact with senior

Qualifications

• Degree (or higher qualification) in Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Mathematics or a related discipline.
• Significant experience in flight performance, aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics or related engineering disciplines.
• Experience developing and using trajectory simulation and performance modelling tools.
• Strong understanding of propulsion system performance and vehicle integration principles.
• Proven CFD experience using tools such as ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM, STAR-CCM+, CFD++ or equivalent.
• Strong first-principles engineering approach and analytical problem-solving capability.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Right to work in the UK.
• Eligible to obtain UK Security Clearance (SC).
• Experience with 6-DoF simulation, flight dynamics and control system interaction.
• Chartered Engineer status, or working towards professional accreditation.
• Experience within defence, advanced engineering, flight systems, space, autonomy or other highly regulated industries.
• Previous experience providing technical leadership or mentoring engineers.
• Experience within start-up or fast-growth technology environments.

Responsibilities

• Lead vehicle performance analysis and trajectory modelling activities.
• Develop, maintain and execute 3-DoF and 6-DoF simulation models.
• Assess overall vehicle performance characteristics and system trade-offs.
• Support concept sizing, mission analysis and performance optimisation.
• Contribute to flight dynamics modelling and validation activities.
• Lead aerodynamic design and analysis activities from concept through detailed development.
• Develop aerodynamic databases using analytical, semi-empirical and computational methods.
• Conduct CFD studies to support design decisions and performance predictions.
• Characterise flow behaviour and aerodynamic performance across varying operating conditions.
• Support aerodynamic validation using available test and analysis data.
• Evaluate propulsion system performance and integration considerations.
• Assess thrust, efficiency and operational performance characteristics.
• Support multidisciplinary trade studies across aerodynamics, propulsion and vehicle performance.
• Contribute to system-level modelling and optimisation activities.
• Present technical findings and recommendations to senior stakeholders.
• Mentor and support junior engineers within the engineering function.
• Participate in design reviews, technical planning and future product development initiatives.
• Ensure engineering activities are delivered in line with quality, safety and security requirements.
• Contribute to the development of engineering processes, tools and best practices.

Skills

Flight performance analysis

Trajectory modelling

CFD analysis

3DoF/6DoF simulation

Python/MATLAB/Fortran

Analytical problem solving

Mentoring engineers

Education

Aeronautical/Mechanical Engineering or physics degree

Chartered Engineer status or pursuing

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

OpenFOAM

STAR-CCM+

CFD++

Job description

Gattaca is seeking a Senior/Principal Performance & Aerodynamics Engineer to lead flight performance analysis, aerodynamic modelling and trajectory simulation within a cutting-edge defence-focused programme in the UK. You will influence programme direction, lead CFD studies and propulsion integration work, and mentor engineers as part of a fast-moving, highly automated team.

You will operate across 3DoF/6DoF simulations, develop analytical and computational models, and interact with senior