Aerodynamicist (Aerospace)

Location: Huntington Beach, California, United States; on-site

Salary: $110,000–$150,000 annually, plus equity. A senior-level compensation tier of $155,000–$195,000 is also listed.

Company

A rapidly growing defense technology startup founded in 2023, developing autonomous, scalable defense platforms and advanced manufacturing systems for the United States and its allies.

What you will do

• Lead aerodynamic design and analysis for air-breathing and solid rocket missile platforms across relevant flight regimes.
• Apply first-principles reasoning, computational tools, and empirical methods at multiple levels of fidelity.
• Own aerodynamic trade studies covering drag, stability, control, efficiency, sensitivities, and geometry changes.
• Support vehicle configuration development and integration with propulsion, structures, and other systems.
• Plan and support wind tunnel and flight test campaigns, reduce and interpret aerodynamic data, and drive design updates.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field, with 5+ years of experience.
• 2+ years of experience working with missiles or closely related vehicles.
• Proficiency with aerodynamic simulation tools such as Missile Datcom, Xfoil, OpenVSP, Cart3D, and/or STAR-CCM+.
• Strong foundations in fluid dynamics and aerodynamic principles, with experience optimizing vehicle performance.
• Strong problem-solving and collaboration skills in a fast-paced environment.
• Authorization to work in the United States is required; access to export-controlled information may require eligibility under U.S. export control laws without export-license sponsorship.

Nice to have

• 8+ years of experience.
• Hands-on experience with missile systems, UAS, or high-speed aircraft.
• Experience in startup or defense environments.
• Experience developing scalable, production-ready aerodynamic solutions.
• Experience with wind tunnel or flight testing and experimental data analysis.

Culture & Benefits

• Equity or stock options are included in most offers.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plans and paid time off.
• Funding for continuing education, training, and professional development.
• Performance-based incentives and transparent compensation tiers.