Aerospace Enginner I - Computational Aerodynamics
Job Description:
Analytical Mechanics Associates, Inc. is seeking an Aerospace Engineer I to support computational aerodynamics and aeromechanics research within the NASA Ames Research Center Aeromechanics Office (Code AV). The position will support high-fidelity aerodynamic analysis of rotorcraft, airfoils, and planetary aerial vehicles using modern computational fluid dynamics methods and high-performance computing resources.
The employee will perform specialized technical assignments under the direction and review of senior engineering personnel. Assignments will have defined objectives and established computational approaches. Final technical conclusions, research direction, and engineering design decisions will remain the responsibility of senior project personnel.
Responsibilities
Set up, execute, and monitor computational fluid dynamics simulations using modern CFD software and high-performance computing systems.
Perform high-fidelity and scale-resolving aerodynamic simulations using methods such as LES, DES, DNS, or comparable approaches.
Prepare computational geometries, generate and evaluate meshes, and develop simulation inputs using established project procedures.
Post-process simulation results and evaluate aerodynamic forces, moments, pressure distributions, rotor loads, flow structures, and performance characteristics.
Compare computational results with experimental measurements, analytical solutions, benchmark cases, and previously generated datasets.
Support verification and validation activities, including convergence assessment, mesh-resolution studies, and comparisons between computational methods.
Conduct assigned rotor, blade, and airfoil performance studies using defined configurations, operating conditions, and evaluation criteria.
Support comprehensive rotorcraft analyses and predefined parameter studies using established analysis workflows.
Develop or modify scientific scripts for simulation preparation, data processing, analysis, and visualization.
Document computational methods, assumptions, configurations, and results.
Prepare technical figures, presentations, reports, conference papers, and journal-publication materials for review.
Minimum Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Aeronautical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related engineering field.
Demonstrated experience with computational fluid dynamics through academic research, thesis work, internships, or professional employment.
Experience using modern CFD tools for aerodynamic-flow simulations.
Familiarity with scale-resolving or high-fidelity simulation methods, including LES, DES, DNS, or related approaches.
Knowledge of numerical methods, computational mesh generation, aerodynamic data analysis, and CFD verification and validation practices.
Experience using scientific programming or scripting languages for engineering analysis and data processing.
Experience working in Linux-based computing environments and with high-performance computing resources.
Ability to document technical work and communicate computational results clearly.
Ability to perform specialized engineering assignments under the direction and review of senior personnel.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with PyFR, OVERFLOW, CAMRAD II, or comparable aerodynamic and rotorcraft-analysis tools.
Experience with high-order numerical methods, GPU-accelerated computing, or large-scale parallel simulations.
Experience with rotorcraft, airfoil, low-Reynolds-number, or planetary-aerodynamics applications.
Experience comparing computational results with wind-tunnel or other experimental data.
Employment Eligibility
This position is open to U.S. citizens, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and eligible foreign nationals whose country of birth and current citizenship are not included on NASA’s Designated Countries List (https://www.nasa.gov/oiir/export-control/). Employment is subject to U.S. work authorization and approval for access to NASA Ames facilities and systems.
Work Location: NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, California
Organization Supported: NASA Ames Research Center, Aeromechanics Office (Code AV)
Salary Range: $115,000–$135,000 annually, depending on qualifications and experience.
Analytical Mechanics Associates (AMA) is proud of our customer relationships, our diverse and dynamic work environment, and our employees' career satisfaction. AMA is a small business with a wide reach; headquartered in Hampton, VA, AMA has operations in Greenbelt, MD; Huntsville, AL; Dallas and Houston, TX; Denver, CO; Mountain View, CA; and Edwards Air Force Base, CA. With over 60 years of experience, AMA specializes in aerospace engineering, science, analytics, information technology, and visualization solutions. AMA combines the best of engineering, science, and mathematics capabilities with the latest in information technologies, visualization, and multimedia to build creative solutions. We offer competitive salaries and a substantial benefits package, including but not limited to paid personal and federally recognized holiday leave, salary deferrals into a 401(k)-matching plan with immediate vesting, tuition reimbursement, short/long term disability plans, and a variety of medical, dental, and vision insurance options.
AMA is committed to the professional growth of every employee, understanding that the successes of our employees drive our success. We provide a work environment that is engaging, collaborative, and supportive. To learn more about our company, please visit our website at www.ama-inc.com/careers and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.
AMA is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against any applicant for employment or employee because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic prohibited under federal, state, or local laws.