Senior Flight Physics Engineer
Electra Aero
- Manassas, VA
- Permanent
- Full-time
- Support development of aerodynamic and propulsion system models/database and aeropropulsive analysis tools.
- Conduct conceptual and preliminary design studies of eSTOL and analysis of comparator aircraft.
- Integrate empirical methods, hand calculations, vortex lattice codes, CFD, wind tunnel, and flight test data to analyze aerodynamic performance and stability & control
- Own the development of the vehicle cockpit simulator software and hardware. Support flying qualities assessments.
- Support flight test planning, instrumentation selection, execution, and data analysis.
- Document analysis, prepare and present at gated design reviews to demonstrate the adequacy of the design.
We are seeking a candidate with the following experience and skills:
- Strong technical background. A Bachelor's Degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Multidisciplinary, Mechatronic Engineering or related discipline and/or equivalent years of experience and 6+ years of direct Aerospace/Engineering Experience
- Experience with the aircraft design process and familiarity with various vehicle analysis tools. Understanding of fluid dynamics, structural mechanics, aircraft sizing, performance, stability and control. Experienced with existing tools for the design and analysis of aircraft systems, propellers, airfoils, motors, and engines.
- Interpersonal. Excellent interpersonal skills, absolute integrity, and a strong work ethic.
- Software engineering. Familiarity with software development in MATLAB, Simulink, python, Fortran, C.
- Highly flexible and dynamic. Quick and positive response to change, ability to multitask. Focus on the output rather than the number of hours spent at work. Willingness to work across time-zones.
- Must be a US Person (Citizen or Green Card).
- Aircraft control system design. Experience with control law development. Experience moving from control system requirements to hardware (pulleys, pushrods, etc.) strongly preferred.
- Experience with detailed aero design. Experience moving from concept to firm OML definition (surfaces, flaps, inlets, fairings, etc.)
- Flight or wind tunnel testing experience. Planning, leading, and executing tunnel test campaigns.
- Aircraft rapid prototyping, hands-on experience.
- CFD proficiency.
- 3D CAD proficiency (CATIA/Solidworks).
- Software engineering. Familiar with continuous integration, agile development methods, and design optimization.
- Ability to interface with various functions (engineering, manufacturing, contracts, finance, supply chain, HR, IT, etc.) and apply a positive, creative, analytical mindset that motivates the team to push through challenges and meaningfully helps resolve problems (technical, programmatic, interpersonal, etc.) in a startup environment.