Senior Aerodynamics Engineer - Bloemfontein

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 invites a Senior Aerodynamics Engineer to join its client in Bloemfontein, offering challenging CFD-focused projects to optimize aircraft performance through advanced simulations and wind tunnel data interpretation.

The role requires a strong fluid dynamics background, 7+ years in aerospace, and experience with ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM. The position supports hybrid work and professional growth in South Africa.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering with Aerodynamics/Fluid Dynamics specialization.
• Minimum 7 years of aerodynamic analysis and design experience in aerospace.
• Extensive CFD experience with ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM.
• Proficiency in CAD for model prep and post-processing.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Perform CFD simulations to analyze airflow, predict forces, and identify performance improvements.
• Develop and refine aerodynamic designs for components and airframes to improve lift and reduce drag.
• Interpret wind tunnel and flight data to validate models.
• Collaborate with structural, flight control, and other teams to meet aerodynamic requirements.
• Optimize wing and fuselage shapes and control surfaces for efficiency.
• Generate technical reports and presentations documenting results and recommendations.
• Stay updated on advances in aerodynamics, CFD, and aerospace tech.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers.
• Contribute to aerodynamic databases and design tools.
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards and regulations.

Skills

CFD software

Data analysis

Strong communication

Hybrid work

Education

Master's or PhD in Aerospace Engineering

Aerodynamics/Fluid Dynamics specialization

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

STAR-CCM+

OpenFOAM

CAD tools

Job description

Our client, a renowned research and development firm in the aerospace sector, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Aerodynamics Engineer to join their innovative team based in Bloemfontein, Free State. This role is critical for optimizing aircraft performance through advanced aerodynamic design and analysis. You will be responsible for conducting complex simulations, interpreting wind tunnel data, and collaborating with design teams to achieve superior aerodynamic efficiency. The ideal candidate will possess a strong theoretical background in fluid dynamics and practical experience with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking projects within the Bloemfontein region and beyond. Our client fosters a culture of scientific inquiry and engineering excellence, making Bloemfontein a strategic location for impactful aerodynamic research and development in South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform complex Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) simulations to analyze airflow characteristics, predict aerodynamic forces, and identify areas for performance improvement.
• Develop and refine aerodynamic designs for aircraft components and entire airframes, focusing on lift, drag reduction, and stability.
• Interpret and analyze data from wind tunnel testing and flight tests to validate simulation models and design concepts.
• Collaborate closely with structural engineers, flight control engineers, and other disciplines to ensure aerodynamic requirements are met.
• Optimize wing designs, fuselage shapes, and control surface configurations for enhanced performance and efficiency.
• Generate comprehensive technical reports and presentations documenting simulation results, design recommendations, and performance analyses.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in aerodynamics, CFD techniques, and aerospace technologies.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior aerodynamic engineers.
• Contribute to the development of aerodynamic databases and design tools.
• Ensure all aerodynamic designs comply with relevant industry standards and regulatory requirements.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field with a specialization in Aerodynamics or Fluid Dynamics.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in aerodynamic analysis and design within the aerospace industry.
• Extensive experience with industry-standard CFD software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM).
• Strong understanding of aerodynamic theory, including subsonic, transonic, and supersonic flow phenomena.
• Proficiency in using CAD software for model preparation and post-processing.
• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong communication and presentation skills, with the ability to effectively convey complex technical information.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing remote work with occasional on-site collaboration in Bloemfontein.
• Must be legally eligible to work in South Africa.

Our client offers a competitive salary, comprehensive medical and retirement benefits, and significant opportunities for professional growth and development. This hybrid role allows for flexibility while ensuring close collaboration with the team in Bloemfontein, Free State. You will have the chance to work on challenging and rewarding projects that push the boundaries of aerodynamic engineering.