Weapons Systems Aerospace Engineer

Job Description

Kratos Defense Rocket Support Services is seeking a Subject Matter Expert in high-speed missile system design for advanced weapon systems. Responsibilities include developing 6-DOF aerodynamic models, coordinating wind tunnel programs, and managing multi-disciplinary engineering teams on long range strike and air-breathing propulsion missile programs. May require up to 25% travel to support launch operations.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• Lead aerodynamic design and analysis for advanced high-speed missile systems from conceptual design through flight test, including air-breathing propulsion integration, control surface optimization, and stability & control evaluation
• Develop and maintain high-fidelity aerodynamic models including complete 6-DOF force and moment databases, uncertainty quantification models, and pseudo-6DOF Monte Carlo simulations for trajectory analysis and guidance system evaluation
• Execute computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses using STAR-CCM , OVERFLOW, Kestrel, and other solver tools to predict aerodynamic performance, optimize inlet designs, characterize unsteady flow phenomena, and resolve shock-boundary layer interactions
• Plan, coordinate, and execute wind tunnel test programs including test article design, facility coordination, instrumentation planning, data acquisition oversight, and post-test data analysis and reporting
• Create physics-based models of flight systems for use in trajectory simulations.
• Lead multi-disciplinary integrated product teams as the aerodynamic technical authority, facilitating weekly technical reviews, mitigating technical risks, evaluating schedules, and ensuring alignment between aerodynamic requirements and system-level performance objectives
• Generate test plans, test procedures and test reports.
• Develop custom engineering tools and optimization algorithms using MATLAB, Python, and other programming languages to automate aerodynamic design processes, perform trade studies, and efficiently evaluate large design spaces
• Participate in full system integration tests and vehicle launch activities.
• Mentor junior engineers and technical staff on aerodynamic prediction methodologies, CFD best practices, design tool utilization, and missile system integration considerations while contributing to organizational capability development
  
  

Experience And Skills

JOB SKILLS:

• Demonstrated experience developing 6-DOF aerodynamic models including force and moment coefficient databases for flight simulation and guidance system evaluation
• Proven track record leading technical teams on missile development programs from conceptual design through flight test or production
• Hands-on experience with aerodynamic prediction tools including Missile DATCOM, panel methods, engineering analysis codes, or semi-empirical prediction techniques
• Strong programming skills in MATLAB, Python, or similar languages for data analysis, tool development, and design optimization
• Direct involvement in air-breathing propulsion integration for ramjet, scramjet, or turbine-powered missile systems (highly desired)
• Monte-Carlo analysis plans and execution
• Proficient in C/C , Python, and MATLAB
• Good communication skills
• Ability to obtain Top Secret Clearance
  
  

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• MS in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering with a focus in aerodynamics and propulsion.
• 10 years relevant professional experience
  
  

Job Benefits

• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance Coverage
• Life/ADD & Short/Long Term Disability Insurance
• 401(k) Savings Plan
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
• Paid Time-Off (PTO)
• Holidays
• Education Reimbursement

Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Affirmative Action Employer. EOE, Minorities, Females, Vet, Disabled, Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity or any other protected class. All qualified job seekers are encouraged to apply. Kratos Defense is committed to America's veterans by providing opportunities for them to continue contributing after service to our nation. We also work to provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities.

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