Aircraft Performance Engineer

Placements24; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Annual bonuses

Medical and retirement benefits

Professional development

Access to advanced engineering tools

Job summary

Placements24 is recruiting an experienced Aircraft Performance Engineer to join our Stellenbosch engineering hub. You will analyze performance, optimize lift, drag, thrust and fuel use while collaborating with design engineers and flight test teams to meet strict performance requirements.

The role offers access to cutting-edge tools and a collaborative environment, with opportunities to contribute to next-generation aircraft and develop advanced performance prediction methods.

Qualifications

• Master's degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering.
• Proficiency in MATLAB and CFD software; flight testing experience.

Responsibilities

• Analyze and model aircraft performance characteristics (lift, drag, thrust, fuel).
• Develop and validate performance prediction tools for design and operation.
• Collaborate with design teams to integrate performance into new designs.
• Conduct flight test data analysis to verify predictions and identify improvements.
• Optimize configurations, systems and procedures to maximize efficiency.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings to management.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Aerospace performance engineering

Data analysis

Technical reporting

Education

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering

Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering (optional)

Tools

MATLAB

CFD software

Flight test data reduction tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a highly analytical Aircraft Performance Engineer to join their engineering team in Stellenbosch. This role focuses on optimizing aircraft efficiency, range, and payload capabilities through detailed performance analysis and design modifications. You will work with cutting-edge technology and collaborate with design engineers, aerodynamicists, and flight test teams to ensure aircraft meet stringent performance requirements. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced engineer passionate about aviation to contribute to the development of next-generation aircraft and enhance the performance of existing fleets, working within a collaborative and innovative engineering hub.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze and model aircraft performance characteristics, including lift, drag, thrust, and fuel consumption.
• Develop and validate performance prediction tools and software used for aircraft design and operation.
• Collaborate with design teams to integrate performance considerations into new aircraft designs and modifications.
• Conduct flight test data analysis to verify theoretical performance predictions and identify areas for improvement.
• Optimize aircraft configurations, systems, and operational procedures to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings and recommendations to engineering management and program stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's degree or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering or a closely related discipline.
• Strong understanding of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and aircraft propulsion systems.
• Proficiency in performance analysis software and simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB, CFD software).
• Experience with flight testing and data reduction techniques.
• Excellent analytical skills and the ability to translate complex technical data into practical engineering solutions.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Generous paid time off and opportunities for professional development.
• Access to advanced engineering tools and facilities.
• A collaborative and innovative work environment within a leading aerospace organization.