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Senior Aircraft Performance Engineer

Long Beach, CA

What is JetZero? 

Today’s aircraft contribute around 4% of global CO2 emissions, equivalent to the emissions of 200 million cars. This is only going to increase: Air travel is forecasted to double by 2050, while meaningful efficiency gains using current airplanes have hit a wall. 

JetZero is developing a blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft. It uses up to 50% less fuel and will be built to accommodate zero-emission hydrogen propulsion. JetZero is the inevitable solution to sustainable air travel. 

The JetZero team 

We are experienced aerospace professionals and engineers, excited about the future. That future will only be possible if we share our vision and what it means to people’s lives: carbon-free flight that' is better for both passengers and airlines around the world. 

Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct detailed aircraft performance analyses (takeoff, climb, cruise, descent, landing) per 14 CFR Part 25 and CS-25.
  • Assist in developing performance models and tools for conceptual design, preliminary sizing, and certification analysis.
  • Assess aerodynamic, propulsion, and weight trade-offs on aircraft performance.
  • Perform mission performance analyses (range, payload, fuel burn, reserves) to optimize design and support airline economics.
  • Execute field performance assessments, including balanced field length, obstacle clearance, and landing distance compliance.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (aerodynamics, stability & control, propulsion, weights) to provide performance-driven feedback.
  • Prepare compliance documentation and assist with FAA/EASA certification authority engagement.
  • Analyze and correlate simulation, wind tunnel, and flight test data to validate performance models.
Qualifications:
  • Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD in Aerospace Engineering or a related field.
  • Experience in aircraft performance analysis, preferably for Part 25 transport aircraft.
  • Strong knowledge of aerodynamics, propulsion, and aircraft mission analysis.
  • Proficient in performance analysis tools (e.g., MATLAB, Python, Fortran, C++) and familiar with industry-standard methods.
  • Understanding of regulatory performance requirements (FAR/CS Part 25 Subpart B).
  • Strong analytical skills with the ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams.
  • Excellent communication and documentation skills.
Preferred Skills (Nice to Have):
  • Experience with blended wing body or nontraditional configurations.
  • Familiarity with airline operations, dispatch requirements, and economic performance analysis.
  • Background in optimization methods for performance trade studies.
  • Flight test or certification campaign experience.
  • Knowledge of mission simulation environments (e.g., GASP, FLOPS, SUAVE, or in-house tools).

The Interview Process  

We want our interview process to be a true reflection of our culture: transparent and collaborative. Throughout the interview process, your recruiter will guide you through the next steps and ensure you feel prepared every step of the way.  

  • Our First Chat: During this first conversation, you’ll meet with a recruiter or hiring team member to chat through your background, what you could bring to our team, what you are looking for in your next role, and who we are.  
  • The Hiring Manager Interview: You will meet with your potential future boss to really dive into the role, the team, expectations, and what success means at JetZero. This is your chance to really nerd out with someone in your field.  
  • Optional – Take Home Exercise: Our assessments seek to test the hard skills required to do the job. Your recruiter will inform you of which assessment you will be assigned and ensure you are fully prepared for your big day.  
  • The Panel: Learn more about the team, responsibilities, and workflows. You should be prepared to speak about past projects, how you collaborate and communicate with others, and how you live our values. Depending on the team and role you are interviewing for, you may meet with several teammates as well as cross-functional partners.  
  • The Executive Review: A chance to meet an executive and view JetZero from a different lens. Be prepared to ask well-thought-out questions about the company, culture, and more. 

JetZero does not sponsor visas for US positions unless specified. Only applicants with current work authorization will be considered. 

At JetZero, we value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally for employment & do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws, ordinance, or regulation.

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