Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; LegKraal Gate; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Remote work setup

Professional development

Flexible hours

Work-life balance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer for a fully remote, permanent position within South Africa. You will analyze flight data, develop performance models, and drive efficiency improvements across design and propulsion teams.

A strong background in aerodynamics, flight mechanics and propulsion is essential, with mentoring responsibilities and regulatory reporting included. The role offers a competitive salary and remote setup, with collaboration across time zones and

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace/related field required.
• Minimum 8 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering.
• Strong knowledge of flight mechanics, aerodynamics and thermodynamics.

Responsibilities

• Analyze flight test data to assess performance against specs.
• Develop and validate advanced performance models using simulations.
• Resolve performance anomalies and discrepancies.
• Collaborate with design, aerodynamics and propulsion teams.
• Prepare detailed technical reports for stakeholders and regulators.
• Mentor junior engineers and contribute to new methodologies.
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations and standards.
• Communicate findings to diverse audiences.

Skills

Flight mechanics

Aerodynamics

Thermodynamics

Python

C++

Data analysis

Education

Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

CFD software

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading innovator in aerospace technology, is seeking a highly experienced Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer to join their globally distributed team. This is a fully remote, permanent position, offering the flexibility to work from anywhere within South Africa. You will play a crucial role in analyzing and optimizing aircraft performance data, contributing to the design and development of next-generation aircraft. This role demands a deep understanding of aerodynamics, flight mechanics, and propulsion systems, coupled with exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills. As a remote-first organization, we provide a collaborative virtual environment with robust tools and support to ensure seamless teamwork and productivity across different time zones. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and dynamic workplace where your expertise is valued and your career can soar.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct in-depth analysis of flight test data to assess aircraft performance against design specifications.
• Develop and validate advanced performance models using complex simulation software.
• Investigate and resolve performance-related anomalies and discrepancies.
• Collaborate with design, aerodynamics, and propulsion teams to implement performance improvements.
• Prepare detailed technical reports and presentations for internal stakeholders and regulatory bodies.
• Contribute to the development of new methodologies and tools for performance analysis.
• Mentor junior engineers and share expertise within the team.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations and standards.
• Effectively communicate technical findings and recommendations to diverse audiences.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum of 8 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering.
• Proven expertise in flight mechanics, aerodynamics, and thermodynamics.
• Proficiency in simulation tools (e.g., MATLAB/Simulink, CFD software).
• Strong programming skills (e.g., Python, C++).
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
• Demonstrated experience with flight test data acquisition and analysis.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, comfortable presenting complex data.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a remote team environment.
• Must be based in **South Africa** and eligible to work remotely.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package.
• Comprehensive remote work setup and support.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge aerospace projects.
• Professional development and continuous learning opportunities.
• Flexible working hours and a healthy work-life balance.
• Contribution to shaping the future of aviation.
• Access to virtual collaboration tools and platforms.
• Supportive and forward-thinking team culture.