Aircraft Performance Engineer

Placements24; Klerksdorp; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work

Health & retirement benefits

Professional development

Tech access

Aviation innovation role

Job summary

Placements24 seeks an experienced Aircraft Performance Engineer for our client in Klerksdorp. You will analyze flight data, develop performance models, and optimize aircraft efficiency across fleets.

The role blends on-site data analysis with remote processing, requiring strong analytical, writing, and collaboration with design, operations, and maintenance teams to deliver actionable performance enhancements.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master’s degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering or related field.
• 5+ years of experience in aircraft performance analysis or similar engineering discipline.
• Proficiency with performance modeling software and data analysis tools (MATLAB, Python).
• Strong knowledge of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and aircraft systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and technical writing skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze flight data to assess aircraft performance such as fuel use, speed, and altitude.
• Develop and validate performance models and simulations for various aircraft types.
• Identify opportunities for performance improvement through modifications or flight planning.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations on findings and recommendations.
• Collaborate with design, operations and maintenance teams to implement enhancements.
• Troubleshoot performance issues and provide engineering support for inquiries.

Skills

Data analysis

Aerodynamics

Analytical thinking

Technical writing

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

Python

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a detail-oriented Aircraft Performance Engineer to contribute to their technical team in Klerksdorp . This role focuses on analyzing and optimizing aircraft performance data to enhance efficiency, safety, and operational economy. You will work with flight data, aerodynamic models, and simulation tools to identify performance trends, troubleshoot issues, and provide recommendations for aircraft configuration and operational procedures. This position offers a hybrid work model, combining on-site analysis and collaboration with remote data processing and reporting. Your expertise will directly impact fuel efficiency, flight planning, and the overall performance of the fleet, contributing significantly to the company's technical excellence. You will play a key role in bridging theoretical performance analysis with practical operational application.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze flight data to assess aircraft performance characteristics, including fuel consumption, speed, and altitude.
• Develop and validate performance models and simulations for various aircraft types.
• Identify opportunities for performance improvement through aircraft modifications, operational procedures, or flight planning adjustments.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations on aircraft performance findings and recommendations.
• Collaborate with design engineers, flight operations, and maintenance teams to implement performance enhancements.
• Troubleshoot performance-related issues and provide engineering support for operational queries.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in aircraft performance analysis or a similar engineering discipline.
• Proficiency in performance modeling software and data analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
• Strong understanding of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and aircraft systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and technical writing skills.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment, adept at both collaborative on-site work and independent remote analysis in Klerksdorp .

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary with potential for performance-based increases.
• Hybrid work arrangement allowing for flexibility.
• Comprehensive health and retirement benefits.
• Access to cutting-edge technology and professional development resources.
• A stimulating role contributing to the forefront of aviation engineering innovation.