Senior Aerodynamics Engineer - Flight Dynamics

Placements24; Randfontein; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Bonus structure

Postgraduate studies support

Conference participation

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Senior Aerodynamics Engineer specializing in Flight Dynamics for an aerospace R&D role in Rustenburg. You will lead CFD analyses, wind tunnel validation, and flight simulations to optimize aircraft performance and stability.

You’ll develop mathematical models of aircraft behavior, analyze aerodynamic characteristics, and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovative aerodynamic solutions and rigorous technical documentation.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or related field with a strong focus on Aerodynamics and Flight Dynamics.
• 7+ years of hands-on experience in aerodynamic analysis and flight dynamics modeling.
• Proficiency in CFD tools and aerodynamic analysis techniques.

Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive aerodynamic analyses using CFD tools to predict aircraft performance and stability.
• Develop and validate mathematical models for aircraft flight dynamics, including stability and control characteristics.
• Design and interpret wind tunnel testing to verify predictions and refine aerodynamic designs.
• Collaborate with airframe design teams to integrate aerodynamic solutions meeting performance and handling requirements.
• Perform simulations to assess design changes on maneuverability, efficiency, and safety.
• Analyze flight test data to correlate with simulations and identify improvements.
• Research and apply advanced aerodynamic concepts for novel aircraft designs.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation for reviews and regulatory submissions.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to departmental growth.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Problem solving

Communication

Teamwork / independence

Aerospace knowledge

Education

Master's in Aerospace Engineering

PhD in related field

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

STAR-CCM+

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a renowned aerospace research and development firm, is actively seeking a highly skilled Senior Aerodynamics Engineer specializing in Flight Dynamics to join their esteemed team in Rustenburg, North West . This critical position involves advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis, wind tunnel testing, and flight simulation to optimize aircraft performance and stability. The successful candidate will be instrumental in analyzing aerodynamic characteristics, developing mathematical models of aircraft behavior, and contributing to the design of innovative aerodynamic solutions. You will work on challenging projects, pushing the boundaries of aerodynamic theory and application in aircraft design. This role requires a profound understanding of fluid mechanics, stability and control, and aerospace vehicle performance. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering aerospace projects and advance your career within a leading organization.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive aerodynamic analyses using CFD tools and techniques to predict aircraft performance and stability.
• Develop and validate mathematical models for aircraft flight dynamics, including stability and control characteristics.
• Design and interpret results from wind tunnel testing to verify theoretical predictions and refine aerodynamic designs.
• Collaborate with airframe design teams to integrate aerodynamic solutions that meet performance and handling quality requirements.
• Perform simulations to assess the impact of design changes on aircraft maneuverability, efficiency, and safety.
• Analyze flight test data to correlate with simulation results and identify areas for aerodynamic improvement.
• Research and apply advanced aerodynamic concepts and technologies to novel aircraft designs.
• Prepare detailed technical reports, presentations, and documentation for project reviews and regulatory submissions.
• Mentor junior aerodynamic engineers and contribute to the technical growth of the department.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or a related field with a strong focus on Aerodynamics and Flight Dynamics.
• A minimum of 7 years of hands-on experience in aerodynamic analysis and flight dynamics modeling.
• Proficiency in using CFD software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+) and aerodynamic analysis tools.
• Solid understanding of aircraft stability and control theory, atmospheric physics, and propulsion systems.
• Experience with flight simulation software and data analysis techniques.
• Knowledge of wind tunnel testing methodologies and data reduction.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong technical writing and presentation abilities.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Benefits

Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and an attractive bonus structure. The company invests heavily in employee development, offering opportunities for advanced training, postgraduate studies support, and participation in international aerospace conferences. This position is based in Rustenburg, North West , a region known for its rich history and growing economic landscape. Employees will have access to modern research facilities and a collaborative work environment dedicated to innovation in aerospace engineering.