Senior Aerospace Engineer

Aerodynamics Engineer

Are you passionate about ground breaking aero- and aerothermodynamics—studying rockets, missiles, drones, and hypersonic systems?

Do you thrive in a collaborative, forward‑thinking environment with experts with an array of backgrounds?

If so, we're looking for someone like you to join our team at APL!

We are looking for an experienced engineer to drive aerodynamic analysis across multiple flight regimes and navigate the toughest challenges in missile‑defense technology. In this role you will:

• Conduct high‑fidelity CFD simulations for subsonic, supersonic, and hypersonic configurations—from launch through termination.
• Contribute to the creation and validation of aerodynamic models, supporting flight‑test campaigns and wind‑tunnel programs for next‑generation missile and aircraft designs.
• Collaborate daily alongside aerodynamics experts who are passionate about pioneering research and dedicated to strengthening our nation's defense capabilities.

If you thrive on solving complex problems in a fast paced, innovative environment, this is the chance to create real impact. Join the forefront of national defense innovation at APL!

As an Aerodynamics Engineer …

• Your primary responsibility will be to perform applied computational analysis using commercial CFD software packages to simulate the flight environments of various vehicles including missiles, aircraft, and drones during launch, boost, midcourse, and glide portions of trajectories.
• You will plan, conduct, and direct wind tunnel tests and perform post-test analysis to generate high-fidelity aerodynamic databases for incorporation into six DOF simulations.
• You will manipulate and modify CAD for use in mesh generation, and you will generate numerical grids to handle the large-scale simulation of several complex air vehicles.
• You will analyze and validate CFD predictions with flight test data and literature.
• You will document results in technical memoranda and papers; present findings and provide expert opinion in technical interchange meetings.
• You will interact with project managers, sponsors, contractors, and other APL staff to establish and maintain relationships and to provide critical contributions.

Note:

This job summary and listing of duties is for the purpose of describing the position and its essential functions at time of hire and may change over time.

Qualifications

• Have a  Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical field with 5+ years of experience in aerodynamic analysis of missile systems.
• Shown ability to leverage commercial CFD packages (CFD++, US3D, or Kestrel) to drive design decisions, program recommendations and push the state-of-the-art
• Have a proven track record of vehicle aerodynamic analysis and design; including aerodynamic stability and control
• Have a strong background in computational fluid dynamics, grid generation, hypersonic flows, wind tunnel testing, and aerodynamic model development.
• Have experience coding and using MATLAB scripts and functions.
• Have excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Be a highly dynamic, self-starter with strong organization skills and willing to set program direction.
• Have experience in aerothermodynamics, rocket and air-breathing engines, and/or engine plume analysis
• Are able to obtain an Interim Secret level security clearance by your start date and can ultimately obtain a Secret level clearance. If selected, you will be subject to a government security clearance investigation and must meet the requirements for access to classified information. Eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship.

About Us

The Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory (APL) brings world-class expertise to our nation's most critical defense, security, space and science challenges. While we are dedicated to solving complex challenges and pioneering new technologies, what makes us truly outstanding is our culture. We offer a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere where you can bring your authentic self to work, continue to grow, and build strong connections with inspiring teammates.

At APL, we celebrate our differences of perspectives and encourage creativity and bold, new…