Sr. Engineer, Aerodynamics

Virgin Galactic•Tustin, CA

8d•$108,871 - $166,036

About The Position

Virgin Galactic is seeking a Senior Aerodynamics and Flight Simulation Engineer with strong experience in flight dynamics modeling, trajectory simulation, and stability and control analysis. Guided by our values, “Safety Above All”, we proactively manage the risks inherent in human spaceflight through our daily actions. Serve as the SME for Aerodynamic & Flight Simulation within the System Analysis team, owning technical depth in that domain while interfacing with adjacent disciplines across engineering. In this role, you will be a primary contributor to the development and maintenance of simulation tools that support trajectory analysis, handling qualities evaluation, and Monte Carlo-based uncertainty characterization across our suborbital SpaceShip and Launch Vehicle programs. You will help develop and sustain the simulation infrastructure that supports flight test planning, safety assessments, and vehicle envelope expansion. This position offers the opportunity to own and evolve a MATLAB-based simulation architecture, collaborate closely with flight test teams, and directly influence vehicle behavior predictions that affect mission success. Maintain focus on timeliness and execution of tasks and deliverables every day.

Requirements

Minimum of 8 years of related experience with a Bachelor’s degree in Engineering; or 6 years and a Master’s degree; or a PhD with 3 years experience; or equivalent experience.
Demonstrated experience developing and maintaining flight simulation tools, including trajectory simulation and 6DOF flight dynamics
Strong understanding of aircraft stability & control, handling qualities, and aerodynamic modeling
Experience with Monte Carlo methods applied to trajectory or performance uncertainty analysis
Proficiency in MATLAB; Python skills are strongly preferred or required if MATLAB proficiency is less extensive
Experience analyzing flight-test data to extract aerodynamic derivatives and correlate models
Working knowledge of aircraft or spacecraft systems
Demonstrate willingness to adjust thinking and behavior.
Ability to communicate in a manner that is timely, respectful, and open to other ideas

Nice To Haves

Experience developing or integrating pilot models or control system models within a simulation environment
Familiarity with simulation architecture best practices (modularity, validation frameworks, CI/CD for engineering tools)
Experience with aerodynamic database development and integration into simulation tools
CFD familiarity or experience with aerodynamic experimental methods
Exposure to nonlinear aerodynamics or high-angle-of-attack modeling
Experience with flight test execution and instrumentation
Advanced degree in aerospace or mechanical engineering

Responsibilities

Develop, maintain, and improve trajectory simulation tools, including 6DOF flight dynamics models, pilot/control system models, and Monte Carlo simulation analysis frameworks
Own the simulation toolchain lifecycle — version control, validation, documentation, and continuous improvement
Develop aerodynamic and stability & control models for vehicle performance, handling qualities, and flight dynamics
Support flight test planning, limitations review, procedures, and post-flight analysis
Analyze flight test data to identify aerodynamic derivatives and update stability & control models
Contribute to aerodynamic database development using CFD, engineering methods, and wind tunnel data
Develop analysis workflows and post-processing pipelines using MATLAB and Python
Collaborate across System Analysis, Aero/Thermal, Loads & Dynamics, Flight Test, and Vehicle Systems engineering
Produce analyses, documentation, and technical presentations supporting program reviews and safety assessments
Contribute to best practices and standards for simulation tool development and aerodynamic modeling
Work collaboratively to achieve goals and/or complete assigned tasks