Senior Engineer, Aircraft Performance

The Senior Engineer, Aircraft Performance at Otto Aviation is responsible for developing methodologies and aircraft performance models, driving the design and simulation processes, participating in flight testing, and ensuring certification compliance. This role involves creating a computerized aircraft performance program and optimizing flight mission planning for autonomous operations, making it crucial to the overall success of aviation projects.

To qualify for the Senior Engineer, Aircraft Performance role at Otto Aviation, candidates must possess a B.S. in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline and have 5-7+ years of experience in detailed performance analysis on fixed-wing aircraft. A strong understanding of performance methodologies, simulation experience, and familiarity with scripting languages like Python or MATLAB are also essential.

The Senior Engineer, Aircraft Performance contributes significantly to aircraft design at Otto Aviation by developing performance models that guide the design, simulation, and evaluation of aircraft flight capabilities. Their expertise aids in creating tools for flight mission planning and ensures performance parameters are accurately assessed to enhance the design of sustainable aircraft.

Candidates applying for the Senior Engineer, Aircraft Performance role at Otto Aviation should be familiar with simulation software such as Simulink, MATLAB, and Python. Experience with 6DoF simulation models and performance data reduction tools is also valuable for this position as it enhances their ability to analyze and optimize aircraft performance efficiently.

Interpersonal skills are crucial for the Senior Engineer, Aircraft Performance at Otto Aviation. Key attributes include active listening, critical thinking, strong organizational abilities, problem-solving skills, self-motivation, teamwork, and effective business communication. These skills facilitate collaboration among diverse teams and ensure successful project execution.

When answering this question, provide specific examples from your past roles where you conducted performance analysis. Highlight the methodologies you employed, the types of software tools you used, and any significant outcomes that resulted from your analysis, showcasing your expertise.

Discuss the various simulation tools you've utilized, such as MATLAB or Simulink. Explain how you applied these tools in the design, testing, or certification phases of aircraft development and the impact they had on achieving project goals.

Highlight your method for developing testing plans, which should include assessing certification requirements, defining test scopes, and creating instrumentation plans. Emphasize the importance of considering compliance standards and the approaches you take to ensure thorough data collection.

Detail the critical performance parameters such as stall speeds, best rate of climb, and maximum range. Explain how you estimate these parameters and why they are essential for successful flight testing and certification of aircraft.

Share a specific instance where you encountered a complex technical challenge. Focus on the steps you took to analyze the problem, the solutions you considered, and how your decisions led to successful outcomes, showing your critical thinking and problem-solving capabilities.

Discuss your strategies for fostering teamwork, such as organizing regular meetings, encouraging open communication, and leveraging each team member's strengths. Explain how this collaboration contributes to the overall success of projects and the seamless integration of their efforts.

Share your knowledge of certification requirements, specifically how you've navigated these in past projects. Provide examples of how you’ve ensured compliance and the importance of adhering to these regulations in developing aircraft designs.

Talk about your passion for aviation and technology. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that sparked your interest and the reasons why you find the aerospace industry exciting and engaging.

Articulate your insights into current trends such as sustainability, advancements in materials, or automation technologies. Discuss how you believe these trends will influence aircraft design and performance in the coming years.

Enumerate the resources and methods you use to keep informed, such as attending industry conferences, participating in professional organizations, or following relevant publications. This shows your commitment to professional development and staying at the forefront of the field.