Aerodynamics Engineer

As an Aerodynamics Engineer at XTI Aerospace, your key responsibilities include designing and analyzing the aerodynamic properties of the innovative TriFan 600, performing numerical analyses, and developing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools. You will document your findings, conduct aircraft performance analysis, support flight testing, and ensure compliance with FAA certification requirements. Your role is crucial in advancing the design and performance of the aircraft, making every analysis count towards safer and more efficient air travel.

To apply for the Aerodynamics Engineer position at XTI Aerospace, candidates must hold a Bachelor of Science in Engineering, preferably in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering. Additionally, a minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in the aerospace field is required, alongside familiarity with FAA regulations, CFD tools, and a strong understanding of aircraft aerodynamics. Great communication skills and experience working in diverse teams are also essential for success in this role.

Aerodynamics Engineers at XTI Aerospace utilize a variety of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) tools and meshing software to perform their analyses. Proficiency with tools such as Open VSP, Fun3D, OpenFOAM, and Pointwise is highly desirable. Additionally, experience with programming languages like Python will enhance your capability to handle complex aerodynamic evaluations and simulations effectively.

As an Aerodynamics Engineer at XTI Aerospace, you play a vital role in supporting flight testing efforts for the TriFan 600. This involves preparing detailed predictions based on your analyses and collaborating closely with the testing team to ensure accurate data collection and evaluation. Your insights and technical expertise help validate the aircraft’s performance and contribute to the overall safety and success of its development.

XTI Aerospace is committed to fostering the career growth of its employees, and as an Aerodynamics Engineer, you will have multiple opportunities for advancement. With ongoing projects and innovations in sustainable aviation, you can expand your skills in aerodynamics, CFD, and regulatory knowledge. Participation in diverse projects allows you to contribute significantly to the aerospace industry and gain recognition as a key player in advancing groundbreaking technologies.

In answering this question, you should provide specific examples of the CFD tools you've used, such as OpenFOAM or Fun3D, and explain how they were applied to previous projects. Discuss any challenges faced while using these tools and how you overcame them, highlighting your problem-solving skills.

When responding to this question, emphasize foundational aerodynamics principles such as lift, drag, and stability. Reference how these principles interact in practical designs, perhaps citing past projects where you successfully applied them to improve an aircraft's performance.

Explain your process for staying updated on FAA regulations, such as conducting thorough reviews of the relevant parts (e.g., 14 CFR part 23, 25, 27 & 29) and integrating those guidelines into your design and analysis phases. Share examples of how adherence to these regulations influenced your work.

Highlight a specific situation where you worked collaboratively with colleagues to address a challenging aerodynamics problem. Detail your role in the process, the solutions you developed, and the outcome, demonstrating your teamwork and technical abilities.

Discuss your systematic approach to validation and verification, such as performing simulations, comparing with experimental data, or peer reviews. Mention specific methodologies you've used to ensure the accuracy and reliability of your results.

Discuss any participation you have had in flight testing programs, detailing specific roles, responsibilities, and how your analyses contributed to successful testing outcomes. This could include preparation of testing scenarios or support during flights.

Share your knowledge about the unique aerodynamic challenges posed by VTOL aircraft, such as hover efficiency, power-to-weight ratios, and transitions from hover to forward flight. Provide examples from any relevant work or studies you've been involved in.

Emphasize the importance of clear communication in engineering, particularly in collaborative projects. Provide examples of how effective communication with team members or stakeholders has led to successful project outcomes.

Describe your approach to time management and prioritization, such as using project management tools or techniques to assess urgency and importance. Provide an example where you effectively managed competing deadlines.

Discuss your proficiency in programming languages relevant to aerospace engineering, like Python. Share specific instances of how you used programming to enhance analyses, automate processes, or improve design workflows.