Aerodynamics Engineer

Catalyx Space is developing next-generation entry systems for space. As an Aerodynamics Engineer, you will be responsible for shaping and analysing the aerodynamic performance of our vehicles, from reentry through terminal descent. This includes vehicle OML design, stability and control authority, deceleration systems, and providing accurate boundary conditions for integrated simulations and tests.

Responsibilities:

• Simulate vehicle aero loads during reentry under different mission conditions.
• Analyse vehicle stability and control across reentry regimes.
• Design and develop the vehicle OML.
• Define and evaluate aerodynamic control authority for maneuvering and stability.
• Work with the simulation team to provide accurate boundary conditions for trajectory and aero-thermal models.
• Design and develop deceleration systems for terminal descent and touchdown.
• Plan and execute aerodynamic validation campaigns, including wind tunnel and other aero tests.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's/Master's in Aerospace Engineering or related field.
• 3–7 years of experience in aerodynamics or flight sciences.
• Strong background in external, compressible fluid dynamics.
• Experience conducting a comprehensive CFD campaign, from a vehicle's early stages to first flight.
• Experience in planning, leading, and/or post-processing wind tunnel campaigns.
• Proficiency in industry-standard CFD tools and software, with a track record of developing custom tools and workflows.
• Experience with DSMC solvers for simulating rarefied gas regimes.
• Expertise with high-performance computing for large-scale CFD/DSMC simulations.
• Strong knowledge of aero loads, stability, and control analysis.
• Proficiency in CAD (SolidWorks or similar) for OML shaping.
• Experience with aerodynamic testing (wind tunnel, subscale models, or equivalent).
• Familiarity with deceleration system design and analysis.

Preferred Skills:

• Prior experience with aerodynamics of reentry vehicles or high-speed flight vehicles.
• Knowledge of supersonic and hypersonic flow regimes.
• Knowledge of aero-elasticity and coupled aero-thermal effects.
• Familiarity with simulation tools for flight dynamics.
• Experience with uncertainty quantification and margin analysis.
• Strong ability to work in a fast-paced, hardware-driven environment.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Willingness to work extended hours and/or weekends as needed.