Lead Aerodynamics Engineer

We're looking for a lead aerodynamics engineer to achieve lift-to-drag ratios so high they look like typos.

What you'll do :

You’ll be responsible for undertaking aerodynamic simulation (CFD and other simpler tools) as well as physical testing (lab and field) in two areas: 1) primary development of full airframe shapes to reach (and exceed!) performance requirements, 2) government-funded R&D on novel high lift concepts.

You'll establish and own the above programs - later you will grow the team but at first, it's you. Lots of freedom to explore. Lots of responsibility too - make sure this is for you.

You’ll take the initiative for technical guidance on both small-scale prototypes and full scale versions, and be a positive hands-on contributor to the building and testing of any hardware.

You’ll advise on, and be responsible for, the tools/software and facilities that we use.

You’ll work directly with the CEO on macro and micro facets of the aerodynamics as well as some aspects of the business, and be - or be mentored to become - a comfortable communicator to internal and external stakeholders alike.

You'll collaborate regularly with the rest of the engineering team to ensure that all system and business goals and requirements are met at a rapid pace, not just the aero ones.

Who you are :

You love airplanes.

Experience

Over 3 years advanced full time experience in aerodynamic development related to flying machines - preferably in industry, or through highly applied research (e.g. academic thesis work - preference to PhD but at least a rigorous Masters - directly related to aviation applications).

Track record of involvement in both simulation and physical testing (emphasis could be on one or the other, but should have some experience with both).

Proven comfortable with CAD - you'll have in-house CAD support to assist but you'll be able to work on some yourself, or be quick to learn.

Some experience with HPC setups, and able to manage compute budgets and can troubleshoot effectively.

Your approach to work

You have a commitment to quality when it comes to generating and analyzing data. Attention to detail while still moving fast.

Vibrant curiosity; you take a keen interest in the product and the tools and processes you use, to continually improve the work of the whole company and deepen your own knowledge and capability.

Extremely high levels of self-motivation – this is a small team that requires everyone to take the initiative, even if it’s in areas outside their comfort zone: job titles are for linkedin, in practice they melt when we need the whole team hands-on to hit a milestone.

You have the demonstrated ability to collaborate and communicate effectively with empathy, and with a particular emphasis on visual communication.

Education

Masters or PhD in aerospace/aeronautical, mechanical, or related field with a specialization in aerodynamics

You must also :

Have the pre-existing right to work in the US (we may be able to transfer an existing work permit but are not sponsoring any new visas for this role unless an E-3 Australia to US)

Be able to start work with us inside 8 weeks from offer accepted.

Be available for full time work on-site in Carson, Los Angeles (remote work flexibility available once you are up and running but in-person for hands-on work is a necessity a lot of the time)

**Who We Are **

Seaflight is a young company on a mission to accelerate an electric and equitable future for flight. And we’re doing it with friendly robots! We design, build, test and manufacture uncrewed (drone) electric flying machines to deliver cargo with world-beating aerodynamic efficiency.

We celebrate differences and are committed to a diverse workplace that fosters inclusion for employees from different backgrounds and experiences. You see sentences like that that a lot, so here’s the most obvious real example - sure, we’re dealing with small number statistics right now, but our current workforce is 50% female and features citizens of 4 different countries.

Benefits

Flexible time off (just need manager approval) Employee equity Health insurance: medical, vision, dental, short-term disability, and life Relocation assistance Flexible hours (deliverable-based goals) Personal recognition for your work through technical publishing, social media features, industry events