Propulsion/Aerodynamics Engineer

Wild West Systems is an American defense technology company with the mission to equip the civilized world with superior and affordable arms and advanced technologies - to dominate the battlefield of present and future threats, in a new era of asymmetrical warfare. We fuse versatile domain experience with novel approach and creativity to change the paradigm of defense - both for military arenas and civilian soft targets. We're an early stage startup, rapidly moving and growing.  General Qualifications (all roles):Deep love for America and passion for Wild West System's mission.Self-starter, capable of performing tasks as an individual as well as working well in a team.Servant-leader mentality, extreme ownership, willing to participate in different and rapidly changing projects in a dynamic environment. Bias for action.ITAR REQUIREMENT: To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here.The JobTranslate mission requirements into propulsion and aerodynamic design parameters.Perform rapid engineering analysis using: Hand calculations Simplified analytical models Simulation tools CFDDesign and evaluate propulsion systems including: Solid rocket motors Nozzle geometry Propellant grain geometry Pressure and burn rate behavior Thermal and structural loadsModel internal ballistics and pressure dynamics in solid propellant systems.Optimize propellant core geometry to achieve target thrust profiles and burn behavior.Analyze external aerodynamics of flight vehicles across subsonic through supersonic regimes.Calculate and validate: Drag components (base, form, friction, shock) Aerodynamic coefficients Center of pressure vs center of gravity relationships Flight stability and control behaviorDevelop and run CFD simulations to validate design assumptions.Write code to automate analysis, simulation workflows, and performance modeling.Work closely with manufacturing, systems, and testing teams to translate designs into real hardware.Support flight tests and ground tests, diagnose performance issues, and iterate quickly. Who You AreYou are comfortable solving physics problems from first principles.You can move between quick hand calculations, simplified models, and high-fidelity simulations without losing intuition.You make decisions quickly and back them up with analysis.You are not waiting for perfect information to move forward.You are comfortable working on new or unconventional technology where no one has all the answers yet.You enjoy difficult problems where engineering judgment matters.You are hands-on and willing to learn across propulsion, aerodynamics, and system integration.You are motivated by building real systems, not just running models. Core Technical RequirmentsCFD modeling (ANSYS Fluent preferred)Coding for engineering analysis (Python or MATLAB preferred)CAD modeling proficiency (SolidWorks, Onshape, or equivalent)Solid mechanical engineering fundamentalsStrong understanding of compressible flow, gas dynamics, and heat transferAbility to perform first-order engineering calculations quickly and accuratelyExperience translating performance requirements into engineering design constraints Propulsion Domain ExperienceInternal ballistics and solid propellant behaviorBurn rate dynamics and pressure couplingSolid rocket motor design including: Nozzle geometry Ignition systems Insulation and materials Structural analysisPropellant grain/core geometry optimizationPressure vessel design and analysisHigh-temperature gas flow and thermal loadsFamiliarity with solid propellant formulation is a strong plus Aerodynamics Domain ExperienceExternal aerodynamics of flight vehiclesMissile or projectile designFlight mechanics and trajectory modelingCenter of pressure / center of gravity relationshipsAerodynamic coefficient modelingSubsonic through supersonic flow regimesDrag component analysisFlight envelope behaviorExperience with guidance, navigation, and control systems is beneficial but not required Experience Requirements3-5 years of relevant engineering experience with a Bachelor's degreeOR1-2 years of relevant experience with a Master's or PhDMore experience is welcome, but the most important qualities are:Strong fundamentals Intellectual curiosity Ability to learn quickly Willingness to solve hard problems ***We do not work with staffing companies. Direct applicants only***