Senior Hypersonics Aerodynamics Engineer (CFD)

Varda Space Industries; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 179,000; Full time

Job summary

Varda Space Industries in El Segundo, CA is seeking a Senior Aerodynamics and Flight Mechanics Engineer to support current vehicles and the next reentry vehicle. You will run high-speed CFD/DSMC simulations, develop 6DOF inputs, and lead aero data across the full flight envelope for GNC and TPS sizing.

The role requires 6+ years in aero, strong CFD/DSMC experience, and the ability to obtain a US security clearance.

Qualifications

• BS in engineering or physics with 6+ years in aero; PhD with 3+ years acceptable.
• Contributed to aerodynamic development of a hypersonic vehicle.
• Experience analyzing aerodynamic data from test/CFD/flight and documenting findings.
• CFD/DSMC simulations of hypersonic and subsonic flows (Fun3D, LAURA, DPLR, US3D, SPARTA, DAC, CBAero).
• Able to build structured/unstructured meshes in Pointwise.
• Proficient in MATLAB or Python; strong communication skills.
• Ability to obtain/maintain US security clearance.

Responsibilities

• Own aero database across full flight envelope for GNC and mission analysis.
• Plan, execute, and reduce wind tunnel data; reconcile with CFD.
• Run high-fidelity CFD/DSMC simulations and mesh generation in Pointwise.
• Characterize stability, develop 6DOF inputs, contribute to flight rules.
• Synthesize CFD, wind tunnel, and telemetry into traceable databases.
• Lead post-flight reconstructions and update predictive models.
• Collaborate across GNC, structures, TPS, and mission planning.

Skills

CFD/DSMC experience

6DOF flight dynamics

MATLAB or Python

Strong written/verbal comms

Security clearance able

Education

BS in engineering or physics

Advanced degree in Aerospace/Mech Eng (preferred)

Tools

Pointwise

Fun3D

LAURA

DPLR

US3D

SPARTA

DAC

CBAero

Job description

Varda Space Industries in El Segundo, CA is seeking a Senior Aerodynamics and Flight Mechanics Engineer to support current vehicles and the next reentry vehicle. You will run high-speed CFD/DSMC simulations, develop 6DOF inputs, and lead aero data across the full flight envelope for GNC and TPS sizing.

The role requires 6+ years in aero, strong CFD/DSMC experience, and the ability to obtain a US security clearance.