Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer - Polokwane

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 2,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Career growth opportunities

Medical aid and retirement fund

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer to optimize aircraft performance, fuel efficiency, and flight planning from Polokwane. You will work with flight operations, engineering, and client teams on challenging projects.

The role requires 7+ years in aircraft performance, strong telemetry and data analysis skills, and experience with TOPCAT, FlightPulse, and MATLAB. Hybrid work arrangement encouraged.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Aerospace Engineering or related field.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in aircraft performance engineering.
• Strong knowledge of aerodynamics and flight dynamics.

Responsibilities

• Analyze aircraft performance data to improve fuel efficiency and range.
• Develop and validate performance models and prediction tools.
• Provide guidance on flight planning, weight and balance, and procedures.
• Conduct performance studies for new aircraft acquisitions or modifications.
• Mentor junior engineers and lead projects.

Skills

Aerospace engineering expertise

Aerodynamics

Flight mechanics

Data analysis

Regulatory knowledge

Education

Master's or PhD in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

TOPCAT

FlightPulse

MATLAB

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading aviation consultancy firm, is seeking an experienced Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer to contribute to their growing operations based in Polokwane. This role is integral to optimizing aircraft performance, fuel efficiency, and flight planning for a diverse range of clients. The successful candidate will leverage advanced analytical skills and deep knowledge of aerodynamic principles and flight dynamics to provide expert advice and solutions. This is a significant opportunity for a seasoned professional to take on challenging projects and make a tangible impact on operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness within the aviation industry. You will be working closely with flight operations, engineering, and client teams to achieve optimal outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Analyze aircraft performance data to identify areas for improvement in fuel efficiency, range, and payload.
• Develop and validate aircraft performance models and prediction tools.
• Provide technical guidance on flight planning, operational procedures, and weight and balance optimization.
• Conduct performance studies for new aircraft acquisitions or modifications.
• Monitor and analyze flight data to ensure compliance with performance standards and regulatory requirements.
• Collaborate with flight crews and operations teams to implement performance improvement initiatives.
• Prepare detailed reports and presentations on aircraft performance analyses and recommendations.
• Stay abreast of industry best practices, regulatory changes, and technological advancements in aircraft performance engineering.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the development of the performance engineering team.
• Ensure all analyses and recommendations are technically sound and commercially viable.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in aircraft performance engineering or a closely related discipline.
• In-depth knowledge of aerodynamics, thermodynamics, flight mechanics, and aircraft systems.
• Proficiency in using performance analysis software and tools (e.g., TOPCAT, FlightPulse, MATLAB).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to interpret complex datasets.
• Experience with flight data monitoring (FDM) and analysis.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present technical information effectively to diverse audiences.
• Proven ability to lead projects and mentor junior team members.
• Strong understanding of international aviation regulations and standards.
• Ability to work effectively in a hybrid work environment, balancing remote and on-site responsibilities.
• Must be authorized to work in South Africa.

Benefits

• Attractive salary package reflecting seniority and expertise.
• Hybrid work model offering flexibility.
• Significant opportunities for professional growth and career advancement.
• Work on diverse and high-profile aviation projects.
• Comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits.
• Collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Support for continuous learning and professional development.