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Design Optimization Engineer

Nashville, Tennessee, United States

Our Company

Whisper Aero is pioneering a more compelling and connected future by delivering cleaner, quieter, and more efficient propulsion solutions. Today's open rotor propulsion systems are challenged by safety, noise, and performance limitations at all scales. Whisper's breakthrough technologies allow aircraft to fly anywhere at any time without disturbing communities, at greater speeds, and with incredible improvements in efficiency and cost. Their innovations also enable a new generation of air moving products that can blend into the soundscapes of daily life. Whisper was founded by industry veterans, Mark Moore and Ian Villa, and continues to innovate a future that’s as considerate as it is compelling with its world-class team in Tennessee. 

About the Role

We are seeking a Design Optimization Engineer to join our high-performing team at Whisper Aero. In this role, you will be responsible for driving the aerodynamic and propulsion integration design process through advanced multidisciplinary optimization techniques. Your work will directly impact the performance and efficiency of next-generation aircraft and propulsion technologies.​

What You'll Do

  • Lead multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) studies across novel aircraft configurations and propulsion components.
  • Integrate aerodynamic, propulsion, and structural considerations into holistic design solutions.
  • Develop and apply adjoint-based optimization frameworks within Whisper’s custom simulation toolsets.
  • Implement and refine geometry parameterization strategies for complex shape optimization, including polynomial-based parameterization (e.g., CST functions), splines, NURBs, and CAD-integrated approaches.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional engineering teams to translate optimization insights into manufacturable designs.

Basic Qualifications

  • Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.
  • Strong experience with multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) frameworks and adjoint methods.
  • Deep understanding of aerodynamic design, propulsion integration, and simulation workflows.
  • Proficiency with geometry parameterization techniques including CST, NURBs, and CAD-based modeling.
  • Fluency in programming and scripting for MDO toolchains (e.g., Python, MATLAB, C++).

Benefits: 

  • Top-tier Benefits: 100% paid Medical, dental, and vision for employees, 75% paid for dependents
  • PTO & Federal Holidays: Starting at four weeks of paid time off for vacation, sick, and personal days
  • Competitive Salary: Value-based compensation, plus enjoy Tennessee’s no-income-tax life
  • End of Year Bonuses: For eligible employees
  • We always have beverages and snacks available to energize you throughout the day, with paid team meals based on office demands.
  • 401(k) 
  • Relocation Assistance
  • Professional Development Stipend

Whisper Aero is proud to be an Equal Opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusivity in the workplace. All aspects of employment are decided on the basis of merit, qualifications, and business needs. We do not discriminate based upon race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Whisper Aero also participates in E-Verify and will provide the Social Security Administration (SSA) and, if necessary, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), with information from each applicant's Form I-9 to confirm work authorization.

 

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