Aerodynamics Engineer – eVTOL Performance & Sizing

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

Job summary

Archer is hiring an Aerodynamics Engineer in San Jose, CA to conceptually size primary surfaces for a next‑gen eVTOL and estimate performance across the flight envelope. You will use AVL/OpenVSP/XFOIL and handbook methods to develop drag polars and trim data, supporting vehicle trades with aerodynamic feedback.

The role requires experience with low‑fidelity tools and rotorcraft aerodynamics, plus Python/MATLAB for data analysis.

Qualifications

• Conceptual aerodynamic design experience using low‑fidelity tools (AVL, OpenVSP/VSPAERO, XFOIL) and handbook sizing methods (Hoerner, Roskam).
• Strong grounding in handbook‑based aerodynamic sizing methods (Hoerner, Roskam).
• Trim and flight mechanics analysis across hover, transition, and cruise regimes.
• Experience with vehicle performance estimation methodologies (range/endurance/speed).
• Tiltrotor/rotorcraft aerodynamics/performance experience desired.
• Experience with rotorcraft analysis tools such as RCAS or CAMRAD II is desirable.
• Proficiency in Python, MATLAB for aero data reduction and analysis.

Responsibilities

• Conceptually size the primary aerodynamic surfaces for a tiltrotor/eVTOL configuration against mission requirements.
• Use low‑fidelity tools and handbook methods to build the drag polar across the flight envelope.
• Trim the vehicle across representative flight conditions and generate trim lines/schedules.
• Estimate vehicle performance (range, endurance, speed, climb) from aerodynamic and propulsion data.
• Conduct mission‑level performance analysis to inform sizing and configuration trades.
• Provide aerodynamic feedback into surface sizing and control effectiveness discussions.
• Collaborate with vehicle and powertrain architects to meet mission requirements.

Skills

Python

MATLAB

Flight mechanics

Tools

AVL

OpenVSP

XFOIL

OpenFOAM

Job description

Archer is hiring an Aerodynamics Engineer in San Jose, CA to conceptually size primary surfaces for a next‑gen eVTOL and estimate performance across the flight envelope. You will use AVL/OpenVSP/XFOIL and handbook methods to develop drag polars and trim data, supporting vehicle trades with aerodynamic feedback.

The role requires experience with low‑fidelity tools and rotorcraft aerodynamics, plus Python/MATLAB for data analysis.