Computational Fluid Dynamics Applications Engineer

Job Description:

AMA is seeking a highly skilled Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Applications Engineer to support aerodynamic, aeropropulsive and flight dynamics analysis using the structured, overset-grid code OVERFLOW for a NASA contract. The successful candidate will apply CFD methodologies to analyze complex electric Vertical Take Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles. This role bridges applied aerodynamics and flight dynamics to accurately and efficiently model these vehicles. These simulations will be used to inform flight campaigns and help design control systems.

Approximate salary range for this role is $95,000-$115,000 commensurate with education and experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform computational fluid dynamics simulations for complex eVTOL vehicles operating across multiple flight regimes (hover, transition, and forward flight).

• Develop comprehensive aeropropulsive models to accurately predict forces and moments as functions of many aircraft states and control settings across the full flight envelope.

• Generate computationally efficient, moderate-fidelity structured overset grids tailored for the application. Appropriate physical and modeling assumptions should be applied to ensure rapid computation while retaining sufficient accuracy.

• Work collaboratively with flight dynamics subject matter experts to develop robust, automated frameworks for prescribing control effector deflections and state variables using statistically designed test matrices.

• Assist Dynamics and Control teams to interpret and incorporate CFD results into flight dynamics models and flight control systems.

• Analyze and interpret CFD results to provide engineering insights and document analysis methodologies, automated workflows, and results in technical reports and presentations.

• Support the development and implementation of best practices for CFD simulation workflows.

Required Qualifications:

Education

• Master's degree in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or closely related field. A bachelor's degree and equivalent work experience is acceptable.

• Demonstrated proficiency with structured-overset grid generation and running CFD solvers.

• Proficiency in scripting and process automation for robust, high-throughput simulation execution.

• Experience with steady and unsteady RANS simulations, turbulence modeling, and complex flow phenomena.

• Proficiency in Unix environment and high-performance computing systems.

• Ability to process and visualize large datasets using relevant tools (Tecplot, ParaView, FieldView, or equivalent).

• Excellent problem-solving and analytical capabilities.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to work independently while closely collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.

• Proven track record of technical documentation and reporting.

Desired Qualifications:

• Experience with overset grid generation tools like Chimera Grid Tools and Pegasus.

• Experience running OVERFLOW for complex rotorcraft applications.

• Experience with automated workflow development and parametric studies.

• Publications in peer-reviewed journals or conference proceedings related to rotorcraft, eVTOL aerodynamics, or flight dynamics modeling.

Work Environment:

• Work will be performed in an office environment with access to high-performance computing resources.

• May require occasional travel to other NASA centers, research facilities, or technical conferences.

This position requires U.S. Citizenship or Permanent Residence.

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 and follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn.

AMA is an Affirmative Action/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.