Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer

Placements24; Polokwane; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Medical insurance

Retirement savings plan

Relocation assistance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 partners with a distinguished aerospace R&D firm in Polokwane, Limpopo, to hire a Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer. You will optimize aerodynamic and propulsive efficiency by analyzing data, building performance models, and delivering actionable recommendations.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering with specialization in performance or aerodynamics and at least 7 years of experience, plus strong MATLAB/Simulink skills and flight-test

Qualifications

• Requires 7+ years in aircraft performance engineering.
• Strong background in aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and flight mechanics.
• Experience with flight test data analysis and model validation.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Analyze flight test, simulation, and ops data to identify improvements.
• Develop and validate performance models for fuel, climb, cruise, and range.
• Run performance simulations under varied flight conditions.
• Collaborate with aero and propulsion teams to optimize design for performance.
• Create reports, presentations, and documentation on performance.
• Develop performance prediction tools and software.

Skills

Master's/PhD

Aerodynamics

Thermodynamics

Flight mechanics

MATLAB/Simulink

Data analysis

Communication

Team collaboration

Certification knowledge

Education

Master's degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Aircraft performance software

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a distinguished aerospace research and development firm, is seeking a Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer to join their innovative team in Polokwane, Limpopo . This role is essential for optimizing the aerodynamic and propulsive efficiency of aircraft. You will be responsible for analyzing aircraft performance data, developing advanced performance models, and providing expert recommendations to enhance fuel efficiency, range, and flight characteristics. This position requires a deep understanding of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and flight dynamics. Join a company at the forefront of aerospace innovation and contribute to the design of more efficient and sustainable aircraft.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze aircraft performance data (flight test, simulation, operational) to identify areas for improvement.
• Develop and validate mathematical models for aircraft performance, including fuel consumption, climb rates, cruise efficiency, and range.
• Conduct performance calculations and simulations under various flight conditions and environmental factors.
• Collaborate with aerodynamic and propulsion engineers to optimize aircraft design for performance.
• Provide technical expertise on aircraft performance to design teams, certification authorities, and customers.
• Develop performance prediction tools and software applications.
• Investigate performance anomalies and provide solutions to optimize operational efficiency.
• Stay abreast of the latest advancements in aircraft performance technology and methodologies.
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation related to aircraft performance.

Requirements

• A Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in performance or aerodynamics.
• A minimum of 7 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering.
• Strong theoretical background in aerodynamics, thermodynamics, and flight mechanics.
• Proficiency in performance analysis tools and software (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, specific aircraft performance software).
• Experience with flight test data analysis and validation of performance models.
• Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to explain complex concepts clearly.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment and contribute to cross-functional projects.
• Familiarity with aircraft certification requirements related to performance is a plus.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and potential for annual bonuses.
• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage.
• Generous retirement savings plan.
• Opportunities for continuous learning and professional development.
• Access to cutting-edge research facilities and technologies.
• A collaborative and intellectually stimulating work environment.
• Relocation assistance may be provided.