Aerodynamicist

Ford • Allen Park, MI

7d • $97,140 - $162,540

About The Position

Plan and execute wind tunnel tests across multiple facilities, leading model builds, instrumentation integration, and test readiness Design and develop innovative measurement systems for wind tunnel models and production vehicles, including custom electronics and sensor integration optimized through CFD analysis Build software tools and automated analytics including analysis scripts and statistical validation metrics integrated into production workflows Develop AI/ML applications for aerodynamic performance prediction, design space exploration, flow field interpolation, and physics-constrained data enhancement Run CFD analysis to support experimental programs, contribute to correlation efforts, and collaborate across engineering teams Contribute to Ford's next generation of electric vehicles.

Requirements

• Master's degree or PhD in Aerospace/Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience.
• Strong proficiency in Python programming for data analysis and automation
• Experience with CFD software (OpenFOAM, StarCCM+, Fluent, or similar)
• Solid understanding of fluid mechanics fundamentals and experimental methods
• Hands-on experience with instrumentation (pressure measurement, flow diagnostics, sensor integration)
• Problem-Solving
• Demonstrated ability to work independently on ambiguous problems from concept to completion
• Ability to think creatively and champion innovative designs
• Communication
• Ability to document work clearly and present technical information effectively

Nice To Haves

• Experience with wind tunnel testing and model operations
• Knowledge of fluid measurement techniques (Pitot/Kiel probes, hot-wire anemometry, PIV, surface pressure measurement)
• Familiarity with calibration methods and measurement uncertainty analysis
• Design & Manufacturing
• CAD proficiency (CATIA, NX, Creo, or SolidWorks)
• Experience designing test hardware and instrumentation systems
• Understanding of manufacturing processes for rapid prototyping
• Software & Data Science
• MATLAB or similar analysis tools
• Experience with version control (Git) and collaborative software development
• Familiarity with machine learning frameworks (PyTorch, TensorFlow, scikit-learn)
• Data visualization and dashboard creation
• Advanced Capabilities
• Machine learning or AI applications in engineering (surrogate modeling, optimization, data-driven methods)
• Physics-informed neural networks or scientific computing
• Electronics and PCB design for custom instrumentation
• 3D scanning and metrology techniques
• Formula SAE, Formula Student, or other motorsports experience
• Personal projects demonstrating initiative and technical depth
• First principles thinking: You don't just follow procedures—you understand the "why" behind them
• Ownership mentality: You take projects from concept through completion without dropping the ball
• Continuous improvement mindset: You're always looking for ways to optimize processes and reduce costs
• Genuine curiosity: You have a hunger to learn beyond your immediate responsibilities
• Proactive problem-solver: You don't wait around when you hit roadblocks
• Collaborative spirit: You work well across disciplines and communicate effectively

Responsibilities

• Plan and execute wind tunnel tests across multiple facilities
• Lead model builds, instrumentation integration, and test readiness
• Design and develop innovative measurement systems for wind tunnel models and production vehicles
• Build software tools and automated analytics
• Develop AI/ML applications for aerodynamic performance prediction
• Run CFD analysis to support experimental programs
• Contribute to correlation efforts
• Collaborate across engineering teams
• Contribute to Ford's next generation of electric vehicles

Benefits

• Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
• Flexible family care days, paid parental leave, new parent ramp-up programs, subsidized back-up child care and more
• Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement, fertility treatments, and more
• Vehicle discount program for employees and family members and management leases
• Tuition assistance
• Established and active employee resource groups
• Paid time off for individual and team community service
• A generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year's Day
• Paid time off and the option to purchase additional vacation time

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level