Senior Aerodynamics Research Engineer

GKN Aerospace; Trollhättans kommun; On-site; SEK 550,000 - 750,000; Full time

Job summary

GKN Aerospace in Trollhättan is seeking a Senior Aerodynamics Research Engineer to work on innovative propulsion technologies. You will perform aerodynamic design and verification for turbomachinery components, employing methods such as CFD and engage in collaborative projects with various engineering disciplines.

The ideal candidate holds an MSc or PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering and has solid experience in aerodynamic design of jet engines. Proficiency in Swedish and English is essential.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics and aerodynamics.
• Proven experience in aerodynamic design of jet engines.
• Ability to contribute effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Aerodynamic design and verification of turbomachinery components.
• Use of CFD and turbomachinery design tools.
• Collaboration with engine performance and mechanical design teams.

Skills

Aerospace and propulsion technologies

Complex problem solving

Collaboration

Communication in Swedish and English

Education

MSc or PhD in Aerospace Engineering or equivalent

Tools

Ansys Classic/WB/Fluent/CFX/Star-CCM+/AmeSim

UG-NX

Python

MATLAB

Job description

About the Role

As a Senior Aerodynamics Research Engineer within the Future Concepts team, you will work on next‑generation aero engine and propulsion technologies, from early concept exploration to detailed aerodynamic analysis.

You will apply methods across multiple levels of fidelity—from 1D mean line modelling to 3D unsteady CFD—to evaluate and optimize design concepts. The role involves close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including performance, mechanical design, thermal and controls engineering, as well as engagement with external research partners.

You are expected to take responsibility for technically complex tasks and contribute with your experience to guide aerodynamic analysis approaches and engineering decisions.

This position offers the opportunity to combine fundamental aerodynamics with practical application, contributing to both current engine improvements and future sustainable propulsion concepts in a research‑driven, collaborative environment.

About You

• Strong interest in aerospace and propulsion technologies
• Curious and motivated by complex technical challenges
• Comfortable taking responsibility and driving work forward independently
• Shares knowledge and mentors junior engineers
• Takes a structured and analytical approach to problem solving
• Enjoys working collaboratively across disciplines
• Communicates clearly and effectively
• Shows initiative and contributes to a positive and innovative team environment

Responsibilities

• Aerodynamic design and verification of axial and radial turbomachinery components, stationary and rotating
• Use of mean‑line (1‑D), streamline (2‑D) and CFD (3‑D), turbomachinery design tools
• Aeroacoustics and aeroelastic analyses (flutter and forced response)
• Heat transfer analyses
• Design and analysis of heat management solutions, including network modelling, design and analysis of heat exchangers and auxiliary equipment, and two‑phase flow simulations
• Collaboration with disciplines such as engine performance, mechanical design, thermal analysis and controls
• Development of integrated aero engine systems and demonstrators, from concept to implementation and post‑test analysis
• Development of analysis methods and tools
• Documentation and presentation of technical results internally and externally
• Participation in research and technology development projects with partners
• Responsibility for complex aerodynamic design, analysis and verification activities, ensuring quality and technical robustness
• Contribution to defining aerodynamic design and analysis methodologies, tools and best practices within the team
• Guidance and support to colleagues in technical topics
• Representation of the team in technical discussions with internal and external stakeholders
• Identification of technology gaps and new opportunities for technology development
• Contribution to the development of GKN as a Great Place to Work, aligned with our core principles: safe, innovative, open & honest, care & respect, and ownership

Qualifications

Required

• MSc or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Physics or equivalent
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, aerodynamics, heat transfer, gas turbines and propulsion systems
• Proven experience in aerodynamic design and analysis of jet engines from aerospace industry or relevant academic research
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams
• Good communication skills in Swedish and English, both written and spoken

Desirable

• Experience with commercial tools such as Ansys Classic/WB/Fluent/CFX/Star‑CCM+/AmeSim etc.
• Experience in UG‑NX
• Programming skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, C++ or similar)
• Knowledge of CFD and turbulence modelling
• Experience in Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), including requirement management, system architecture modelling, functional decomposition and development of logical and physical architectures

Employment

This full‑time position is based in Trollhättan, Sweden. The applicant must be able to gain the right to live and work in Sweden. Travel to other locations within Sweden as well as the EU is expected.