Aerodynamic Engineer

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab; Laurel (MD); On-site; USD 100,000 - 245,000; Full time

Job summary

Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab seeks an Aerodynamics Engineer to analyze the capabilities of precision engagement weapon systems. You will engage in exciting projects supporting the U.S. Department of Defense, employing your expertise in aerodynamics and computational fluid dynamics.

The successful candidate should possess a B.S. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, with at least 5 years of relevant experience and strong communication skills. This position offers a competitive salary from $100,000 to $245,000 annually.

Qualifications

• 5+ years experience in conducting CFD simulations or analyzing aerodynamic models.
• Experience coding and using MATLAB scripts and functions.
• Ability to obtain a Secret level security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Predict aerodynamic characteristics of air-vehicle configurations.
• Analyze trajectory simulations for range and maneuverability estimates.
• Plan and conduct wind tunnel tests and perform post-test analysis.

Skills

CFD simulations

Excellent oral and written communication

MATLAB scripting

Trajectory modeling

Python programming

Education

B.S in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CFD++

US3D

Kestrel/Helios

Pointwise

Job description

Description

Are you searching for impactful aerodynamics work furthering innovative technologies, especially in the area of hypersonics?

Do you enjoy working with a team of forward-thinking engineers to improve our capability to predict advanced aerodynamic phenomena?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL.

We are seeking an engineer to analyze the aerodynamic capabilities of new and existing precision engagement weapon systems. As a member of our team, you will contribute to exciting projects supporting the U.S. Department of Defense and the warfighter. Our team strives to develop, apply, and maintain deep expertise in aerodynamics, computational fluid dynamics (CFD), and testing. You will work alongside aerodynamics experts who have a real passion for conducting research to advance our country's capabilities.

As an Aerodynamics Engineer you will...

• Predict the aerodynamic characteristics of various air-vehicle configurations, including hypersonic re-entry vehicles, supersonic and hypersonic air-breathing concepts, and subsonic fixed-wing or rotorcraft air vehicles using first order aerodynamic prediction codes and CFD simulations.
• Analyze trajectory simulations to generate range and maneuverability estimates using high-fidelity aerodynamics models.
• Plan and conduct wind tunnel tests and perform post-test analysis to render data into high fidelity aerodynamic models for incorporation into six degree-of-freedom simulations. You will support associated test activities including pre-test predictions, test design, instrumentation requirements, and documentation.
• Craft reports and presentations to communicate results to team members and government partners.

Qualifications

You meet our minimum qualifications for the job if you...

• Have a B.S in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline.
• Have 5+ years of experience in conducting CFD simulations, running wind tunnel tests, or analyzing and developing aerodynamic models.
• Have prior experience coding and using MATLAB scripts and functions.
• Have excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Are willing and able to travel occasionally to attend meetings or tests at other government and contractor sites.
• Are comfortable working in closed area facilities.
• Are able to obtain a Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

You’ll go above and beyond our minimum requirements if you...

• Have a M.S. or Ph.D degree or equivalent experience in aerodynamics or equivalent experience in weapon system design and development with a focus on aerodynamics or aerothermodynamics.
• Have previously worked with trajectory modeling software, CAD, Multi-Dimensional Optimization (MDO) and/or Direct Simulation Monte Carlo (DSMC) modeling tools.
• Have experience with CFD++, US3D, Kestrel/Helios, or other advanced DoD or commercial CFD codes, as well as experience generating CFD meshes (Pointwise, Link3D, GridPro).
• Have strong programming skills in Bash (or similar shell equivalent) and/or Python.
• Have shown initiative, motivation, and flexibility.

Salary Range

Minimum Rate: $100,000 Annually

Maximum Rate: $245,000 Annually

EEO and Disability Accommodation Statement

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, creed, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information, veteran status, occupation, marital or familial status, political opinion, personal appearance, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law. APL is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to individuals of all abilities, including those with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to participate in any part of the hiring process, please contact [e-mail].