Senior Aerodynamics Engineer

About the Role

We are seeking a passionate Senior Aerodynamics Engineer to join our elite Flight Physics team at Airbus Defence & Space in Getafe. In this role, you will directly influence the external aerodynamic design, flight performance, and safe operation of next-generation aircraft in a highly collaborative, international environment. You will work at the intersection of cutting-edge technology and multidisciplinary engineering, encompassing complex CFD modeling, high-speed wind tunnel testing, and safe separation analysis.

Responsibilities

• Aerodynamic Design & Modeling: Shape external air vehicle geometries and build comprehensive aerodynamic databases, including steady & unsteady loads, performance, stability, and handling qualities.
• Experimental & Numerical Testing: Drive CFD simulation campaigns and participate directly in experimental wind tunnel testing.
• Store & Cargo Integration: Perform critical safe separation analyses for external stores and complex maneuvers.
• Innovation & Tool Development: Develop, optimize, and maintain state-of-the-art aerodynamic methods, scripts (Python/Matlab), and technological roadmaps aligning with Airbus strategy.
• Multidisciplinary Collaboration: Work closely with international experts across Flight Physics, Structures, Flight Control, Loads, and Mass Properties, as well as leading external aerospace research communities.
• Delivery Excellence: Ensure high-impact aerodynamic solutions meet time, cost, and quality standards (TCQ) across the entire aircraft lifecycle.

Skills and Qualifications

Must-Haves:

• Education: Master’s Degree in Aerospace / Aeronautical Engineering (or equivalent).
• Experience: 5+ years of hands-on military transport or combat aircraft aerodynamics experience across shape design and characterization, CFD, wind tunnel testing, or safe separation. Experience in civil aircraft aerodynamics is also highly valuable. Mastery in other Flight Physics disciplines (Performance, Loads, Flight Mechanics) is a major plus.
• Languages: Advanced / C1 level in English.
• Core Competencies: Strong foundation in aerodynamics principles, fluid mechanics, and flight mechanics.

Nice-to-Haves:

• PhD in Aerospace Engineering focused on Aerodynamics or Fluid Dynamics.
• Proficiency with numerical aerodynamic prediction tools (CFD, high-performance meshing, solver execution).
• Previous experience in aerodynamic shape design and optimization.
• Practical experience building aerodynamic databases combining experimental and CFD data.
• Hands-on skills in Python, Matlab, or CAD tools (CATIA).
• Previous exposure to wind tunnel testing or safe separation analysis.
• Professional working knowledge of German or French.

Benefits and Working Environment

At Airbus, we are focused on our employees' welfare and offer a range of social benefits, including:

• Vacation days plus additional days-off along the year.
• Attractive salary.
• Hybrid working model where possible, promoting work-life balance.
• Collective transport service (subject to working calendar/home location).
• Benefits such as life insurance, health insurance, employee stock options, retirement plan, or study grants.
• On-site facilities including a free canteen, kindergarten, and medical office.
• Opportunities to collaborate in social and corporate social responsibility initiatives.
• Excellent upskilling opportunities and development prospects in a multicultural environment.
• Option to access special rates in products & benefits.

We support flexible working arrangements to stimulate innovative thinking and empower you to work, connect, and collaborate more easily.

Company Information

Company: Airbus Defence and Space SAU

Employment Type: Permanent

Experience Level: Professional

Job Family: Flight & Space Physics <JF-EN-EE>