Aerodynamics Intern (Spring 2027)

Zipline • South San Francisco, CA

4d • Onsite

About The Position

Zipline is seeking an Aerodynamics Intern to work alongside aerodynamicists and aeronautical engineers on current projects. The intern will apply academic skills in a practical, fast-paced environment and use tools ranging from low-fidelity calculations to CFD simulation and experimental analysis to advance the design of current and future products. The role involves aerodynamic performance and aircraft design work, collaborating with a broad range of engineering teams, and may include limited travel within California for testing programs. The internship is full-time and in-person at Zipline’s South San Francisco or Dallas office. Spring 2027 interns will work from January to April or May.

Requirements

• Currently studying one or more of fluid mechanics, aerodynamics, flight physics, aeronautical engineering, or acoustics.
• Strong understanding of technical coursework in the relevant study areas.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with continuum- or Lattice Boltzmann-based computational fluid dynamics tools such as STAR-CCM+, Fluent, OpenFOAM, or PowerFLOW.
• Experience identifying, planning, executing, troubleshooting, and analyzing wind tunnel tests using electro-mechanical and optical diagnostic techniques.
• Experience planning and executing flight tests for system identification and simulation validation, including cross-functional planning and data analysis.
• Experience with MATLAB, Python, Rust, or similar software tools.
• Experience with advanced CAD surfacing tools such as CATIA or NX.

Responsibilities

• Conduct vehicle design analysis, including aerodynamics, propulsion, and power system performance.
• Develop low- and high-fidelity analytical models of vehicle subsystems and behaviors.
• Generate aerodynamic databases and analyze flight behaviors.
• Plan, execute, and analyze experiments, including wind tunnel and flight tests.
• Support multidisciplinary teams—including controls, mechanical, production, software, and electrical engineers—in addressing design challenges and resolving time-sensitive issues.

Benefits

• Hourly rate of $48.
• Additional benefits may include relocation support, a housing stipend, overtime pay, and paid sick time, where applicable and subject to local requirements.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Intern
• Education Level: No Education Listed