Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer

Placements24; Midrand; Hybrid; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund contributions

Annual performance bonuses

Job summary

Placements24 in Midrand, Gauteng, invites a Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer to drive modeling, analysis, and validation of aircraft performance from design to operation. You will develop flight dynamics and propulsion models, analyze test data, optimize flight profiles for efficiency, and mentor junior engineers in a collaborative aerospace environment.

A Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering with 7+ years’ experience is required; proficiency in Python or MATLAB and performance tools is

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering with specialization in flight mechanics or performance.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering.
• Proficiency in aerodynamics, propulsion and flight dynamics; strong data analysis skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop and validate mathematical models for aircraft performance, including flight dynamics, propulsion, and fuel burn.
• Conduct performance analysis for new aircraft designs and modifications, assessing climb, cruise, range and endurance.
• Optimize flight profiles and operating procedures to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
• Perform aerothermodynamic analysis and simulations to understand complex performance interactions.
• Collaborate with design teams to influence aircraft configuration for improved performance characteristics.
• Analyze flight test data to validate models and identify discrepancies.
• Develop performance-related documentation, including reports, manuals, and certification data.
• Stay current with advancements in aircraft performance technologies and analytical methods.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to team technical expertise.

Skills

Aerodynamics

Flight dynamics

Propulsion systems

Python

MATLAB

Education

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering (specialization in flight mechanics or performance)

Tools

APD

FlightGear

Python

MATLAB

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prestigious firm in the aerospace sector, is actively recruiting for a Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer to enhance their team in Midrand, Gauteng . This role is dedicated to the analysis, optimization, and validation of aircraft performance throughout its lifecycle, from design to operational phases. The successful candidate will possess a strong foundation in aerodynamics, flight mechanics, and propulsion systems, with expertise in using sophisticated modeling and simulation tools to predict and improve aircraft efficiency, range, and payload capabilities. This is a challenging yet rewarding opportunity to contribute to the advancement of aircraft performance in a collaborative and innovative environment. You will play a key role in ensuring optimal flight characteristics for our client's aircraft.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and validate mathematical models for aircraft performance, including flight dynamics, propulsion, and fuel burn.
• Conduct performance analysis for new aircraft designs and modifications, assessing factors like climb, cruise, range, and endurance.
• Optimize aircraft flight profiles and operating procedures to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact.
• Perform aerothermodynamic analysis and simulations to understand complex performance interactions.
• Collaborate with design teams to influence aircraft configuration for improved performance characteristics.
• Analyze flight test data to validate performance models and identify discrepancies.
• Develop performance-related documentation, including reports, manuals, and certification data.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in aircraft performance technologies and analytical methods.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the team's technical expertise in aircraft performance.

Requirements

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field with a specialization in flight mechanics or performance. Minimum of 7 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering. Proven expertise in aerodynamics, propulsion systems, and flight dynamics. Proficiency in using performance analysis software (e.g., APD, FlightGear) and simulation tools. Experience with flight test data acquisition and analysis. Strong understanding of aircraft systems and their impact on performance. Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and computational skills. Ability to interpret complex data and communicate findings effectively. Experience with scripting languages (e.g., Python, MATLAB) for data analysis and automation is advantageous.

Benefits

Our client provides a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical aid, retirement fund contributions, and annual performance bonuses. This role offers excellent opportunities for professional development, including advanced training and exposure to cutting-edge aircraft programs. Join a dedicated team of aerospace professionals in Midrand, Gauteng , and contribute to the development of high-performance aircraft that lead the industry. We foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and technical excellence.