Senior Consultant - Computational Aerothermodynamics & Machine Learning

Job Description

56-69 Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is seeking a highly specialized Subject Matter Expert to serve in a part‑time, advisory capacity. This consultant will provide strategic technical guidance and expert review at the intersection of computational aerothermodynamics, advanced modeling and simulation (M&S), and machine learning (ML).

Requiring a commitment of no more than 20 hours per month, this role is ideal for an established researcher, academic, or industry veteran looking to lend their expertise to cutting‑edge aerospace challenges without a full‑time commitment.

The hourly rate for this position is $59‑69 an hour commensurate with experience and education.

• Technical Advisory: Provide expert‑level consultation on computational aerothermodynamics methodologies, physics‑based modeling, and simulation strategies.
• Machine Learning Integration: Advise on the application and integration of machine learning algorithms (e.g., surrogate modeling, physics‑informed neural networks, data‑driven turbulence modeling) to enhance traditional CFD and aerothermodynamic workflows.
• Design & Architecture Review: Evaluate and provide feedback on the architecture of high‑performance physical models and numerical methods.
• Strategic Road mapping: Assist engineering teams in identifying emerging trends and state‑of‑the‑art techniques in M&S and computational physics to maintain a competitive technical edge.
• Mentorship &
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Serve as a sounding board for senior engineers and developers, helping to troubleshoot complex physical and algorithmic challenges.

• Education: Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a strictly related computational discipline.
• Experience: A minimum of 5 years of active, post‑Ph.D. professional experience specifically focused on computational aerothermodynamics, M&S, and ML.
• Domain Expertise: Deep foundational knowledge of hypersonic and supersonic flows, high‑temperature gas dynamics, and advanced computational fluid dynamics (CFD).
• Machine Learning Proficiency: Proven track record of applying machine learning, deep learning, or advanced statistical modeling to complex fluid dynamics or thermodynamic problems.
• Communication: Exceptional ability to distill complex theoretical concepts into actionable engineering guidance.

• Familiarity with modern, high‑performance software architecture, particularly the development of robust C++ libraries for CFD codes (e.g., providing complex gas properties).
• Experience with heterogeneous computing environments, including GPU acceleration and parallel programming models (e.g., OpenMP, CUDA, Kokkos).
• Deep knowledge of physics of high‑enthalpy flows, including thermal radiation, chemical kinetics, and transport processes.
• History of peer‑reviewed publications in relevant aerospace, physics, or computational science journals.

This position requires U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence.

AMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.