Aerodynamics Engineer - Mid Level

Oshkosh Corporation•Huntersville, NC

About The Position

Pratt Miller is a product development company in motorsports, defense, and mobility industries providing clients with product engineering and low-volume production solutions. Our range of research & development, engineering, prototype manufacturing, test & validation, and low-rate production capability help our customers bring their high-quality products to market faster. The Aerodynamics Engineer will provide coordination and co-ownership of wind tunnel testing activities that include test planning, directing test article preparation, execution, data analysis, reporting and implementation of findings. Working closely with the internal team of Aero/CFD/Design and Fabricators along with team resources, you will employ and develop the most modern methods available. The Aerodynamics Engineer will have the opportunity to be involved in the aerodynamic development program from design specification, conceptual layout, component optimization, physical realization, through on-track performance verification. This position is located in the Motorsports NASCAR Program at the Huntersville, NC Pratt Miller location and may include travel for track testing and race attendance as needed.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering required
Minimum of 3 years professional motorsport or automotive aerodynamics experience

Nice To Haves

Advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering preferred
Wind tunnel test planning, execution, and data analysis experience required
Experience in CAD surfacing design, preferably Catia Generative Shape Design
Develop hardware and/or software tools to expand current capabilities in correlation and flow field understanding
Ability to work with a team of wind tunnel specialists in various capacities including passing down learned skills and knowledge
Ability to take on assignments independently with little direction given
Ability and skill able to suggest detailed improvements in systems and procedures to design staff to improve testing and process efficiency
Knowledge and ability of prepping model part to final A-surface ready for the tunnel test
Proficiency in use of MS Office tools for concise and effective communication
Hands-on skills and willingness to fit test parts in shop or at wind tunnel as needed
Ability to move boxes and parts up to 50 lbs.
Day shift, start time of 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM M-F
Must be flexible with work schedule to accommodate fixed deadlines, including occasional work on Saturday and/or Sunday
Able to work off-hour and/or weekend wind tunnel shifts when required
Travel required for wind tunnel tests, team visits, track events, and meetings.

Responsibilities

Interface between Pratt Miller aerodynamics department and supported NASCAR race teams to develop and communicate aero targets, performance and development needs (including toolset improvements)
Support the development of targets and integration of aerodynamics into broader vehicle for system performance optimization (e.g., ensuring the proper implementation of aerodynamic models into full vehicle simulations)
Participate in wind tunnel and track test planning, coordination, execution and analysis to ensure successful tests
Work in tandem with Aerodynamic Specification Lead to: Incorporate developments into actionable team vehicle builds and to confirm proper maintenance of body build specifications with built-in test traceability
Maintain and confirm aerodynamic specifications of full-scale test assets (including wind tunnel and track test vehicles)
Develop, communicate, and implement aerodynamic instrumentation needs for wind tunnel and track testing. Focus on the real-world aerodynamic performance of the race vehicles through correlation efforts to improve CFD, wind tunnel simulations and aerodynamic models
Perform aerodynamic and thermal analyses using a variety of tools (empirical and numerical) and synthesize alternatives
Report and communicate findings to customers in a clear, concise and timely manner
Develop concepts and aero surfaces for CFD, wind tunnel and track testing
Work with Pratt Miller manufacturing, model making, electronics, software, and race operations groups to complete projects to a high standard
Ability to perform, thrive, and push all levels of specialists to work in a dynamic and fast-paced, professional team environment
Attention to time management
Ability to communicate on various platforms (Teams, email, text message, phone calls)
Must adhere to work schedule with reliable attendance
Strong work ethic and pride in workmanship