Aerodynamics Engineer: Conceptual Sizing & Performance

AlleyCorp; San Jose (CA); On-site; USD 153,000 - 228,000; Full time

Job summary

Archer Aviation in San Jose, CA, is seeking an Aerodynamics/Performance Engineer to conceptually size the primary aerodynamic surfaces for a next-generation eVTOL and estimate performance using low‑fidelity tools. You will collaborate with vehicle and powertrain architects to close overall vehicle performance against mission requirements.

The role requires experience with AVL/OpenVSP, XFOIL, and handbook methods, plus proficiency in Python or MATLAB for aero data analysis.

Qualifications

• Conceptual aerodynamic design experience with low-fidelity tools (AVL/OpenVSP).
• Strong grounding in handbook-based sizing methods (Hoerner/Roskam).
• Experience with rotorcraft aerodynamics/performance is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Conceptually size primary aerodynamic surfaces for an eVTOL configuration across use cases.
• Use low-fidelity tools and handbook methods to build drag polar and trim across flight envelope.
• Estimate vehicle performance (range, endurance, speed, climb) from aero and propulsion data.
• Perform mission-level performance analyses to inform sizing and trades.
• Provide aerodynamic feedback to vehicle-level configuration trades and collaborate with architects.

Skills

Conceptual aerodynamics

Flight mechanics

Rotorcraft aerodynamics

Python

Tools

AVL/OpenVSP

XFOIL

Python

MATLAB

Job description

Archer Aviation in San Jose, CA, is seeking an Aerodynamics/Performance Engineer to conceptually size the primary aerodynamic surfaces for a next-generation eVTOL and estimate performance using low‑fidelity tools. You will collaborate with vehicle and powertrain architects to close overall vehicle performance against mission requirements.

The role requires experience with AVL/OpenVSP, XFOIL, and handbook methods, plus proficiency in Python or MATLAB for aero data analysis.