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Aerodynamics Engineer

San Luis Obispo, California, United States; United States

Join us at Zone 5 Technologies where innovation and cutting-edge technology drive pioneering advancements in unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Based in the vibrant city of San Luis Obispo CA, we're seeking talented individuals to join and contribute to our growing team.

We thrive on pushing boundaries and inventing solutions to real-world challenges. Join a community of forward-thinkers who collaborate to create impactful products with a global reach. Our team, consisting of engineers and professionals, is prepared to overcome new frontiers and deliver innovative solutions in the field of unmanned aircraft systems.

We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled Aerodynamics Engineer to join our advanced aerospace team, focusing on the aerodynamic design, analysis, and optimization of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS). The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of fluid dynamics, computational methods, and has been involved with wind tunnel and flight testing to validate models. 

 

Key Responsibilities: 

  • Perform the aerodynamic design and analysis of wide range of UAS systems 
  • Conduct CFD simulations (steady/unsteady compressible and uncompressible flows) to assess aerodynamic performance and stability. 
  • Develop and validate aerodynamic models using wind tunnel testing and flight data. 
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (structures, propulsion, controls, systems engineering) to integrate aerodynamic insights into the overall design. 
  • Prepare technical reports, design documentation, and present findings to stakeholders. 
  • Assist in the development of flight test plans and post-flight data analysis. 

 

Qualifications: 

  • Masters's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master’s or Ph.D. preferred). 
  • 3–5 years of experience in aerodynamics, preferably in the UAS missiles, or defense aerospace industry. 
  • Good knowledge of CFD tools (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM) and mesh generation software. 
  • Experience with lower fidelity aerodynamic modeling tools like AVL, XROTOR 
  • Experience with aerodynamic modeling software and data visualization tools (MATLAB, Python, Tecplot, ParaView). 
  • Familiarity with wind tunnel testing techniques and instrumentation. 
  • Familiarity with Multidisciplinary Design Optimization (MDO) tools for aircraft design and performance analysis 
  • Understanding of compressible and high-speed aerodynamics 
  • Knowledge of stability & control theory, flight dynamics, and performance analysis. 
  • U.S. Citizenship or equivalent status required for defense-related work. Security clearance (or eligibility) is a strong plus. 

 

Preferred Skills: 

  • Experience in missile aerodynamics (lift/drag prediction, control authority, pitch/yaw/roll coupling). 
  • Hands-on experience with flight tests, telemetry analysis, or real-time simulation environments. 
  • Familiarity with multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) and digital twin approaches. 

 

Pay range for this role

$100,000 - $140,000 USD

What's in it for you:

Benefits: 

  • Competitive total compensation package 
  • Comprehensive benefit package options include medical, dental, vision, life, and more.
  • 401k with company-match 
  • 4 weeks of paid time off each year
  • 12 annual company holidays

Why Join Zone 5 Technologies?

  • Innovative Environment: Work on cutting-edge technology that is shaping the future of defense and aerospace.
  • Collaborative Culture: Join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
  • Career Growth: Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.

In compliance with federal law, all persons hired will be required to verify identity and eligibility to work in the United States and to complete the required employment eligibility verification form upon hire.

If you are passionate about unmanned aircraft technology and want to be a part of a dynamic and growing company, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and join the Zone 5 Technologies team! 

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