General Atomics · 2 weeks ago
Propulsion Aerodynamics Engineer
Poway California
Full-time
Hybrid
Senior Level, Lead/Staff
$116K/yr - $209K/yr
8+ years expGeneral Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is a world leader in reliably delivering remotely piloted aircraft and advanced surveillance systems. They are seeking an experienced Propulsion Aerodynamics Engineer to provide technical leadership in integrating various engine types into military aircraft, focusing on propulsion aerodynamics throughout the development lifecycle.
EnergyEnergy EfficiencyManufacturingWireless
No H1B
Security Clearance RequiredU.S. Citizen Only
Responsibilities
Provide technical leadership in propulsion aerodynamics for aircraft ranging from subsonic UAVs with extensive natural laminar flow (NLF) to transonic UAVs with shock-laden flows
Stay current with industry developments, including participation in events such as the AIAA Propulsion Aerodynamics Workshop
Maintain familiarity with SAE/AIR standards for aero engine integration into aircraft
Establish or refine standards for inlet diffusers, nozzles, ejectors, and other secondary flow paths, incorporating low observability (LO) features
Collaborate with the external aerodynamics team to improve thrust-drag bookkeeping practices
Develop methods to standardize error bar reporting for aerodynamic databases and reduced-order models (ROMs) based on rigorous statistical analysis and uncertainty quantification (UQ)
Conduct analyses related to propulsion aerodynamics, such as creating aerodynamic databases for inlet/engine coffin plots using wind tunnel tests and/or CFD
Provide input on engine sizing for conceptual design of new aircraft concepts
Collaborate with other teams within the Flight Technologies department to enhance both new designs and existing GA aircraft
Present findings to internal stakeholders, external customers, and professional organizations
Qualification
Required
Typically requires a bachelors degree, masters degree or PhD in engineering or a related technical discipline from an accredited institution and progressive engineering experience as follows; twelve or more years of experience with a bachelors degree, ten or more years of experience with a masters degree, or seven or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent engineering experience in lieu of education
Active security clearance is required
Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively
Expertise in gas dynamics, including engine secondary flow paths, as well as diffuser and nozzle design/sizing
Solid understanding of thermodynamics related to turboprop, turbofan, and hybrid propulsion performance and stability in integrated designs
Advanced knowledge of CFD numerics (Navier-Stokes equations), turbulence models, transition modeling, and their application to propulsion aerodynamics
Proficiency in commercial meshing and CFD tools, including geometry repair, surface meshing, and volume meshing
Experience with aerodynamic databases, wind tunnel testing, flight testing, and uncertainty estimation
Strong foundation in subsonic and transonic aerodynamics, including natural transition and unsteady flows
Familiarity with aerodynamic analysis tools across multiple fidelities, from 2D airfoil tools to 3D Navier-Stokes CFD tools
Knowledge of aerodynamic stability and controllability requirements for aircraft, including mathematical theory and regulatory standards
Expertise in propeller and propulsive fan design and testing
Familiarity with signal processing related to propulsion testing
Familiarity with compressible flow equations and aerodynamic analysis tools, such as NPSS, XRotor, DFDC, BladeGen, and AxStream
Understanding of coupling between aircraft aerodynamics, propulsion performance, and thermal management
Proficiency in programming languages such as C, C++, Fortran, Python, and preferably MATLAB
Willingness to travel occasionally to wind tunnels, flight test sites, customer sites, and conferences
Extensive hands-on experience with commercial and/or government meshing and CFD software, such as ANSA, CCM+, FLUENT, and Kestrel
Preferred
Familiarity with Turbofan/compressor stability testing
Experience with aircraft flight testing, including knowledge of flight dynamics, flight data analysis, and tool development
Pilot's license
Benefits
Relocation Assistance Provided?
Company
General Atomics
General Atomics is a defense and technology company specializing in research and technology development.
10001+ employees
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$6.76MKey Investors
US Department of Energy
2023-08-14Grant
2023-05-09Grant
2022-09-19Grant
Leadership Team
Wayne Solomon
Vice President, Magnetic Fusion Energy
Recent News
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