Aerospace Engineer – M&S - MDAO

CFD Research Corporation•Dayton, OH

12d

About The Position

CFD Research is developing and applying multi-disciplinary analysis and optimization (MDAO) processes for advanced aerospace systems. This work integrates physics-based modeling and simulation (M&S), advanced analysis methods, and optimization techniques to enable more efficient design exploration, system evaluation, and performance improvement. We are seeking an engineer with the intellectual curiosity and technical depth needed to support the development of next-generation aerospace capabilities. This role will apply advanced modeling and simulation techniques to multi-disciplinary analysis and optimization (MDAO), with emphasis on hypersonic flight and extreme combined environments, aeroelasticity, and multifunctional structural simulations. The candidate will conduct research into high-performance structures operating under severe thermal, aerodynamic, and mechanical loading to help resolve current system challenges and improve the performance, resilience, and design of future platforms. The candidate will also support delivery and deployment of modeling and optimization processes to the Air Force Research Laboratory and other DoD customers.

Requirements

Candidate must be a U.S. Citizen and meet eligibility requirements to obtain and maintain a security clearance
Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline
Proficiency with Python and Linux-based operating systems
Experience developing or applying physics-based modeling and simulation methods to support multi-disciplinary analysis and optimization (MDAO) of aerospace systems, including coupled or multi-physics analysis in areas such as external aerodynamics, heat transfer, structural modeling, or aerothermoelasticity
Experience with formal optimization methods, including gradient-based and gradient-free techniques
Experience with 6DOF engagement simulation and/or mission simulation tools

Nice To Haves

Master’s or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, or a related technical discipline
Experience with geometry modeling tools such as CAD, OpenVSP, or ESP
Experience with aerodynamic modeling tools such as Missile DATCOM, CBAERO, or Kestrel
Proficiency with compiled languages, especially C++ or Fortran
Familiarity with reduced-order modeling (ROM), surrogate modeling, supervised machine learning, or other data-driven modeling techniques
Familiarity with guidance, navigation, and control concepts
Proficiency with software development best practices, including Git, code linting, testing, and CI/CD
Experience with containerized workflows and deployment of software

Responsibilities

Apply advanced modeling and simulation techniques to multi-disciplinary analysis and optimization (MDAO), with emphasis on hypersonic flight and extreme combined environments, aeroelasticity, and multifunctional structural simulations.
Conduct research into high-performance structures operating under severe thermal, aerodynamic, and mechanical loading to help resolve current system challenges and improve the performance, resilience, and design of future platforms.
Support delivery and deployment of modeling and optimization processes to the Air Force Research Laboratory and other DoD customers.