Staff Aerothermal CFD Engineer

1w1 week ago

Inversion Space

US · Full-time · $161,000 – $221,000

About this role

Inversion builds advanced reentry systems to deliver next-generation capabilities from space, turning Low-Earth Orbit into an on-demand logistics domain. The Staff Aerothermal CFD Engineer characterizes the aerothermodynamic environment on and around the lifting-body reentry vehicle, with emphasis on the rarefied flow regime. This role drives advanced modeling efforts for highly maneuverable, accurate, low-cost systems.

On a day-to-day basis, lead the creation of high-fidelity simulations using cutting-edge CFD tools and workflows. Mentor team members and act as the driving force behind building confidence in vehicle models. Creatively solve novel high-speed flow challenges in hypersonic conditions.

Work in a fast-paced environment backed by investors like Y Combinator, Spark Capital, and Lockheed Martin Ventures. Collaborate with partners such as the U.S. Space Force and NASA on dual-use technology for national security and commercial applications. Push boundaries in space-based defense and logistics.

This unique opportunity helps define CFD strategy for groundbreaking technology. Extend tools like DSMC simulations or multi-physics plasma environments to their limits. Play a pivotal role in designing next-generation hypersonic systems operating through extreme reentry conditions.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience
Typically 9+ years of experience in hypersonic, supersonic, reentry, or rocketry external flow-field aerothermodynamic analysis
Strong experience with high fidelity simulation of gas dynamics at conditions where inter-molecular forces must be considered (SPARTA, DAC, MAP, plasma simulation tools, etc.)
Familiarity with Fidelity Pointwise, Link3D or equivalent meshing software for generating high-quality meshes
Strong knowledge of flows in thermal-chemical non-equilibrium
Experience modeling mixed-regime flows such as plumes exhausting into rarefied flows
Experience integrating ground and flight test data into aerothermal vehicle models
Proficiency in uncertainty quantification and relevant mathematical models

Responsibilities

Characterize the aerothermodynamic environment on and around the vehicle with emphasis on the rarefied flow regime
Develop, improve, and implement cutting-edge CFD tools and workflows
Lead the creation of high-fidelity simulations
Mentor team members
Drive efforts to build confidence in vehicle models
Define the CFD strategy for groundbreaking technology
Solve novel high-speed flow challenges
Contribute to the design of next-generation hypersonic systems