Job SummaryWe are seeking a Project Engineer with a focus on flight sciences to support research and development for next-generation Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Reporting to the Engineering Manager in the Advanced Programs Office, this role collaborates with Chief Engineers and Integrated Product Team (IPT) leaders to develop the next generation of Unmanned Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms.
Major development areas include:
- Aerodynamic shaping and platform design
- Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis
- Flight controls and control law development
- Wind tunnel testing and validation
- Integration of aerodynamic solutions on advanced vehicle systems
The ideal candidate will have a strong background in aerodynamics and flight sciences, with experience leading multidisciplinary technical teams to develop and validate innovative solutions to complex aerodynamic challenges. This role is focused on technical leadership and coordination, not direct execution of analysis.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES- Guide technical teams in the design, analysis, and validation of aerodynamic solutions for advanced air vehicles.
- Analyze aircraft-level aerodynamic and flight control requirements and translate them into detailed specifications for subsystems and components.
- Oversee the integration of aerodynamic shaping, CFD, flight controls, and wind tunnel testing to ensure system-level performance objectives are met.
- Collaborate with internal teams, external vendors, and suppliers to ensure aerodynamic and flight control solutions align with overall system objectives and program milestones.
- Drive the development and validation of new approaches to resolve complex aerodynamic and flight control challenges.
- Lead efforts to validate aerodynamic performance through wind tunnel testing, simulation, and flight test data analysis.
- Prepare technical documentation and present findings to engineering staff, management, and customers as needed.
- Serve as the primary technical contact for aerodynamic and flight control aspects of small contracts or component projects.
- Provide guidance and direction to design and technical staff, leading a team of moderately experienced professionals.
- Maintain strict confidentiality of sensitive information and adhere to all applicable laws, regulations, and company policies.
- Work safely in accordance with established procedures and practices.
- Other duties as assigned.
Job Qualifications- Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; nine or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, seven or more years of experience with a masters degree, or four or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education.
- Experience with aerodynamic shaping, CFD, wind tunnel testing, and flight control systems.
- Understanding of flight dynamics, control law development, and integration of aerodynamic solutions with vehicle systems.
- Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams in the development and validation of complex aerodynamic solutions.
- Familiarity with industry-standard tools and methods for aerodynamic analysis and validation.
- Ability to lead technical teams, drive technical discussions, and coordinate across engineering domains.
- Excellent communication, documentation, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Able to work independently and in teams, manage complex tasks, and represent the organization in technical forums.
- Willingness to work extended hours and travel as required.
