Remote Aircraft Performance Engineer

Placements24; Mossel Bay; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health insurance

Professional development funding

Flexible remote work culture

Generous paid time off

Lifestyle in Mossel Bay

Job summary

Placements24 in South Africa is seeking a highly skilled Remote Aircraft Performance Engineer to join our world-class engineering team. This fully remote role lets you analyze flight data, optimize performance parameters, and contribute to cutting-edge aerodynamics and propulsion technology from anywhere in SA.

You will model and simulate aircraft performance, collaborate with aerodynamicists and flight test teams, and deliver reports to regulators.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline with a specialization in performance or aerodynamics.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering or closely related field.
• Strong proficiency in performance analysis software (e.g., PROOSIS, FlightGear, X-Plane) and numerical modeling tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
• In-depth understanding of aircraft systems, aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and propulsion.
• Experience with data reduction and analysis techniques for flight test data.

Responsibilities

• Analyze flight test data and operational data to assess aircraft performance characteristics.
• Develop and validate mathematical models for aircraft performance prediction, including climb, cruise, descent, and range.
• Optimize aircraft configuration, engine performance, and flight profiles to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
• Conduct simulations to evaluate impact of design changes or operational modifications on aircraft performance.
• Collaborate with aerodynamicists, propulsion engineers, and flight test teams to integrate performance requirements into aircraft design.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations on aircraft performance analyses and recommendations.
• Support certification activities by providing performance data and analysis to regulatory authorities.
• Stay abreast of advancements in aircraft performance technologies, simulation techniques, and industry best practices.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of performance databases and analysis tools.
• Effectively manage project timelines and deliverables in a remote setting, ensuring clear communication with stakeholders.

Skills

Flight data analysis

Mathematical modeling

Remote collaboration

Analytical thinking

Independent work

Education

Master's or PhD in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

PROOSIS

MATLAB

Python

FlightGear

X-Plane

Job description

About the Role

Our client is looking for an innovative and highly skilled Remote Aircraft Performance Engineer to join their world-class engineering team. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to leverage your expertise in aircraft performance from anywhere within South Africa . You will be responsible for analyzing flight data, optimizing aircraft performance parameters, and contributing to the development of cutting-edge aerodynamic and propulsion technologies. This role demands a strong analytical foundation, proficiency in complex modeling and simulation software, and excellent communication skills for virtual collaboration. If you are passionate about maximizing aircraft efficiency and performance and thrive in a remote work environment, this opportunity in Mossel Bay is perfect for you. Our client is dedicated to providing a flexible and technologically advanced platform for its remote employees to achieve exceptional results.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze flight test data and operational data to assess aircraft performance characteristics.
• Develop and validate mathematical models for aircraft performance prediction, including climb, cruise, descent, and range.
• Optimize aircraft configuration, engine performance, and flight profiles to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
• Conduct simulations to evaluate the impact of design changes or operational modifications on aircraft performance.
• Collaborate with aerodynamicists, propulsion engineers, and flight test teams to integrate performance requirements into aircraft design.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations on aircraft performance analyses and recommendations.
• Support certification activities by providing performance data and analysis to regulatory authorities.
• Stay abreast of advancements in aircraft performance technologies, simulation techniques, and industry best practices.
• Contribute to the development and maintenance of performance databases and analysis tools.
• Effectively manage project timelines and deliverables in a remote setting, ensuring clear communication with stakeholders.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline with a specialization in performance or aerodynamics.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering or a closely related field.
• Strong proficiency in performance analysis software (e.g., PROOSIS, FlightGear, X-Plane) and numerical modeling tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python).
• In-depth understanding of aircraft systems, aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and propulsion.
• Experience with data reduction and analysis techniques for flight test data.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills for effective remote collaboration and reporting.
• Proven ability to work independently, manage priorities, and deliver high‑quality results in a remote environment.
• Familiarity with aircraft certification processes and standards.
• Ability to work effectively within a global, distributed team.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly competitive compensation package, including a generous salary and potential for performance‑based bonuses, tailored for a remote role.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance plans are provided.
• Opportunities for professional development include access to extensive online learning platforms and funding for relevant conferences.
• Our client champions a supportive and flexible remote work culture, prioritizing employee well‑being.
• Employees receive generous paid time off and flexible working hours.
• This role offers the unique opportunity to contribute to significant aerospace projects while enjoying the lifestyle benefits of living in the scenic region of Mossel Bay, Western Cape .