Senior Aerodynamics & Flight Simulation Architect

Virgin Galactic; Tustin (CA); Presencial; USD 143.000 - 218.000; Jornada completa

Descripción de la vacante

Virgin Galactic in California is seeking a Senior Aerodynamics and Flight Simulation Engineer to lead flight dynamics modeling, trajectory simulation, and stability/controls analyses. The role focuses on developing and maintaining MATLAB-based simulation tools for trajectory analysis and uncertainty characterization across suborbital programs, influencing vehicle behavior predictions.

You will collaborate with flight test teams, ensure timely delivery of analyses, and contribute to the

Formación

• Minimum of 8 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering; or 6 years with a Master’s degree; or a PhD with 3 years experience; or equivalent experience.
• Demonstrated experience developing and maintaining flight simulation tools, including trajectory simulation and 6DOF flight dynamics
• Strong understanding of aircraft stability & control, handling qualities, and aerodynamic modeling
• Experience with Monte Carlo methods applied to trajectory or performance uncertainty analysis
• Proficiency in MATLAB; Python skills are strongly preferred or required if MATLAB proficiency is less extensive
• Experience analyzing flight-test data to extract aerodynamic derivatives and correlate models
• Working knowledge of aircraft or spacecraft systems

Responsabilidades

• Develop, maintain, and improve trajectory simulation tools, including 6DOF flight dynamics models, pilot/control system models, and Monte Carlo simulation analysis frameworks
• Own the simulation toolchain lifecycle — version control, validation, documentation, and continuous improvement
• Develop aerodynamic and stability & control models for vehicle performance, handling qualities, and flight dynamics
• Support flight test planning, limitations review, procedures, and post-flight analysis
• Analyze flight test data to identify aerodynamic derivatives and update stability & control models
• Contribute to aerodynamic database development using CFD, engineering methods, and wind tunnel data
• Develop analysis workflows and post-processing pipelines using MATLAB and Python
• Collaborate across System Analysis, Aero/Thermal, Loads & Dynamics, Flight Test, and Vehicle Systems engineering
• Produce analyses, documentation, and technical presentations supporting program reviews and safety assessments
• Contribute to best practices and standards for simulation tool development and aerodynamic modeling
• Work collaboratively to achieve goals and/or complete assigned tasks

Conocimientos

Flight dynamics modeling

Trajectory simulation

6DOF flight dynamics

Monte Carlo methods

MATLAB

Python

Flight-test data analysis

Aircraft stability & control

Educación

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Advanced degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering

Descripción del empleo

Virgin Galactic in California is seeking a Senior Aerodynamics and Flight Simulation Engineer to lead flight dynamics modeling, trajectory simulation, and stability/controls analyses. The role focuses on developing and maintaining MATLAB-based simulation tools for trajectory analysis and uncertainty characterization across suborbital programs, influencing vehicle behavior predictions.

You will collaborate with flight test teams, ensure timely delivery of analyses, and contribute to the