Senior Aerospace Engineer

About the role

We are looking for an experienced engineer to drive aerodynamic analysis across multiple flight regimes and navigate the toughest challenges in missile-defense technology. In this role you will:

• Conduct high-fidelity CFD simulations for subsonic, supersonic, and hypersonic configurations—from launch through termination.
• Contribute to the creation and validation of aerodynamic models, supporting flight-test campaigns and wind-tunnel programs for next-generation missile and aircraft designs.
• Collaborate daily alongside aerodynamics experts who are passionate about pioneering research and dedicated to strengthening our nation’s defense capabilities.

Responsibilities

Your primary responsibility will be to perform applied computational analysis using commercial CFD software packages to simulate the flight environments of various vehicles including missiles, aircraft, and drones during launch, boost, midcourse, and glide portions of trajectories. You will also plan, conduct, and direct wind tunnel tests and perform post-test analysis to generate high-fidelity aerodynamic databases for incorporation into six DOF simulations. You will manipulate and modify CAD for use in mesh generation, and you will generate numerical grids to handle the large-scale simulation of several complex air vehicles. You will analyze and validate CFD predictions with flight test data and literature. You will document results in technical memoranda and papers; present findings and provide expert opinion in technical interchange meetings. You will interact with project managers, sponsors, contractors, and other APL staff to establish and maintain relationships and to provide critical contributions.

Requirements

• Have a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field with 5+ years of experience in aerodynamic analysis of missile systems.
• Show ability to leverage commercial CFD packages (CFD++, US3D, or Kestrel) to drive design decisions, program recommendations and push the state-of-the-art.
• Have a proven track record of vehicle aerodynamic analysis and design; including aerodynamic stability and control.
• Have a strong background in computational fluid dynamics, grid generation, hypersonic flows, wind tunnel testing, and aerodynamic model development.
• Have experience coding and using MATLAB scripts and functions.
• Have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Be a highly dynamic, self-starter with strong organization skills and willing to set program direction.
• Have experience in aerothermodynamics, rocket and air-breathing engines, and/or engine plume analysis.

Qualifications

• Able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance.
• Eligible for a U.S. Security Clearance.

Benefits

As an employee at APL, you will enjoy:

• Generous retirement contributions
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible spending accounts
• Education assistance
• Training and development opportunities

Pay

$100,000 - $245,000 Annually

Schedule

Full-time, 40 hours per week