Head of Aerodynamics in Hayward, California

Head Of Aerodynamics

We are exclusively partnered with a venture-backed engineering company developing next-generation turbines for distributed power generation. As the company scales, they are looking for a Head of Aerodynamics to lead the aerodynamic design of a clean-sheet compressor and play a critical role in the development of an entirely new power generation platform. This is a rare opportunity to join at an early stage, own a core subsystem from concept through production, and build the Aerodynamics function as the business scales.

* Unfortunately, visa sponsorship is not available for this position.

Responsibilities:

• Lead the aerodynamic design of the compressor from concept through production.
• Define compressor architecture, stage count and blade profiles using meanline design, CFD and detailed aerodynamic analysis.
• Optimize designs for efficiency, surge margin, manufacturability and overall system performance.
• Work closely with combustion, turbine and generator engineers to develop an integrated machine.
• Correlate CFD predictions with hardware testing and drive continuous design improvements.
• Make key engineering decisions around design maturity and readiness for manufacturing.
• Take ownership of an entire subsystem rather than an individual component.
• Initially operate as a hands-on technical leader before building and growing the Aerodynamics team.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering or equivalent
• Strong turbo machinery aerodynamic design experience.
• Experience designing gas turbines or aerospace propulsion systems
• Experience designing compressors from first principles.
• Hands-on experience using ANSYS CFX or equivalent CFD software.
• Strong understanding of compressor efficiency, surge margin and manufacturability.
• Experience taking aerodynamic designs through hardware testing and correlating CFD with physical results.
• Past experience working at a startup

Nice to Haves:

• Previous leadership or people management experience.

Why Apply?

• Own the aerodynamic design of a clean-sheet gas turbine from concept to production.
• Build and lead the Aerodynamics function as the business scales.
• Join at an early stage with significant equity upside.
• Backed by leading venture capital and deep-tech investors.