Lead Aerodynamics Specialist (Remote)

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 2,200,000 - 4,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and optical coverage

Home office setup allowance

Remote-friendly environment

Professional growth opportunities

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Lead Aerodynamics Specialist to drive the aerodynamic design of future aircraft from a remote setting. You will lead CFD studies, wind tunnel analysis, and model development, shaping high-performance aircraft concepts with cross-functional teams.

Ideal candidates bring 10+ years in aircraft aerodynamics, strong leadership, and deep CFD/experimental expertise, ready to guide a global, remote engineering group across projects and regulatory boundaries.

Qualifications

• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering with a specialization in Aerodynamics.
• Minimum 10 years of hands-on experience in aircraft aerodynamics, including extensive CFD experience.
• Proven experience leading aerodynamic projects and teams.
• Expertise in aerodynamic theory, numerical methods, and experimental aerodynamics.

Responsibilities

• Lead the aerodynamic design and analysis for new aircraft concepts and modifications.
• Conduct advanced CFD simulations and wind tunnel analysis.
• Develop and validate aerodynamic models and prediction methods.
• Collaborate with design teams to integrate aerodynamic requirements.
• Provide expert technical leadership and mentorship to a team of aerodynamics engineers.
• Research and implement novel aerodynamic technologies and concepts.
• Ensure designs meet regulatory and performance specifications.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation for stakeholders.

Skills

Project leadership

CFD analysis

Aero dynamics theory

Remote collaboration

Communication

Education

Master's or PhD in Aerospace Engineering (Aerodynamics)

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

OpenFOAM

CAD tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned entity in the aviation sector, is actively seeking a visionary Lead Aerodynamics Specialist to join their globally distributed, remote-first engineering department. This position offers a unique chance to influence the aerodynamic design of future aircraft from your home environment. You will be instrumental in pushing the boundaries of aerodynamic performance, developing innovative solutions, and leading research initiatives. We are searching for a highly accomplished professional with a profound understanding of fluid dynamics and a demonstrated ability to lead complex projects. The ideal candidate will possess exceptional analytical capabilities and a passion for aerodynamic excellence, contributing significantly to groundbreaking aviation advancements. This remote role requires a self-motivated individual who excels in virtual team collaboration and communication.

Key Responsibilities

• Spearhead the aerodynamic design and analysis for new aircraft concepts and modifications, optimizing for performance, efficiency, and stability.
• Conduct advanced Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations and wind tunnel testing analysis.
• Develop and validate aerodynamic models and prediction methods.
• Collaborate with design teams to integrate aerodynamic requirements into the overall aircraft design.
• Provide expert technical leadership and mentorship to a team of aerodynamics engineers.
• Research and implement novel aerodynamic technologies and concepts.
• Ensure aerodynamic designs meet all regulatory and performance specifications.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Maintain a high level of technical expertise and contribute to the company's intellectual property.

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Master's or Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering or a closely related field with a specialization in Aerodynamics.
• Minimum of 10 years of hands‑on experience in aircraft aerodynamics, including extensive CFD experience.
• Proven experience leading aerodynamic projects and teams.
• Expertise in aerodynamic theory, numerical methods, and experimental aerodynamics.
• Proficiency with industry‑standard CFD software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, OpenFOAM) and CAD tools.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and collaboration skills for effective remote work.
• Demonstrated ability to manage projects and deliver results in a virtual environment.
• Familiarity with aviation regulations and certification processes related to aerodynamics.
• Must be authorized to work in Cape Town, Western Cape, ZA , though the position is fully remote.

Benefits

• Attractive annual salary package of ZAR .
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and optical coverage.
• Generous annual leave and public holiday allowance.
• Retirement fund contributions.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and attending industry conferences.
• A supportive and flexible remote working environment.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art virtual collaboration tools and resources.
• Home office setup allowance provided.