Aerodynamics Engineer - Senior Level

About Pratt Miller, an Oshkosh company

Pratt Miller is a product development company in motorsports, defense, and mobility industries providing clients with product engineering and low-volume production solutions. Our range of research & development, engineering, prototype manufacturing, test & validation, and low-rate production capability help our customers bring their high-quality products to market faster.

The Aerodynamics Engineer will provide coordination and ownership of wind tunnel testing activities that include test planning, directing test article preparation, execution, data analysis, reporting and implementation of findings.

Working closely with the internal team of Aero/CFD/Design Engineers and Fabricators along with team resources, you will employ and develop the most modern methods available. You will have the opportunity to lead various areas of aerodynamic development program from design specification, conceptual layout, component optimization, physical realization, through on-track performance verification.  

This position is located in the Motorsports NASCAR Program at the Huntersville, NC Pratt Miller location and may include travel for track testing and race attendance as needed.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND SKILLS: Typical responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Lead interface between Pratt Miller aerodynamics department and supported NASCAR race teams to develop and communicate aero targets, performance and development needs (including toolset improvements)
• Support the development of targets and integration of aerodynamics into broader vehicle for system performance optimization (e.g., ensuring the proper implementation of aerodynamic models into full vehicle simulations)
• Organize wind tunnel and track test planning, coordination, execution and analysis to ensure successful tests
• Work in tandem with Aerodynamic Specification Lead to:
  • Incorporate developments into actionable team vehicle builds and to confirm proper maintenance of body build specifications with built-in test traceability
  • Maintain and confirm aerodynamic specifications of full-scale test assets (including wind tunnel and track test vehicles)
• Develop, communicate, and implement aerodynamic instrumentation needs for wind tunnel and track testing.
• Focus on the real-world aerodynamic performance of the race vehicles through correlation efforts to improve CFD, wind tunnel simulations and aerodynamic models
• Perform aerodynamic and thermal analyses using a variety of tools (empirical and numerical) and synthesize alternatives
• Report and communicate findings to customers in a clear, concise and timely manner
• Develop concepts and aero surfaces for CFD, wind tunnel and track testing
• Work with Pratt Miller manufacturing, model making, electronics, software, and race operations groups to complete projects to a high standard

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS: In addition to the responsibilities mentioned above, tasks relating to the following area will be assigned as required.

• Ability to perform, thrive, and push all levels of specialists to work in a dynamic and fast-paced, professional team environment
• Attention to time management
• Ability to communicate on various platforms (Teams, email, text message, phone calls)
• Must adhere to work schedule with reliable attendance
• Strong work ethic and pride in workmanship

EDUCATION/CERTIFICATION/YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering required
• Advanced degree in Aerospace Engineering preferred
• Minimum of 6 years professional motorsport or automotive aerodynamics experience

DESIRED SPECIALIZED SKILLS AND KNOWLEDGE:

• Wind tunnel test planning, execution, and data analysis experience required
• Conceptual and technical understanding of motorsports aerodynamics with ability to develop from first principles
• Experience in CAD surfacing design, preferably Catia Generative Shape Design
• Develop hardware and/or software tools to expand current capabilities in correlation and flow field understanding
• Ability to work with a team of wind tunnel specialists in various capacities including passing down learned skills and knowledge
• Ability to take on assignments independently with little direction given
• Ability and skill able to suggest detailed improvements in systems and procedures to design staff to improve testing and process efficiency
• Knowledge and ability of prepping model part to final A-surface ready for the tunnel test
• Proficiency in use of MS Office tools for concise and effective communication

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Hands-on skills and willingness to fit test parts in shop or at wind tunnel as needed
• Ability to move boxes and parts up to 50 lbs.

EXPECTED HOURS OF WORK:

• Day shift, start time of 7:00 AM - 9:00 AM M-F
• Must be flexible with work schedule to accommodate fixed deadlines, including occasional work on Saturday and/or Sunday
• Able to work off-hour and/or weekend wind tunnel shifts when required
• Travel required for wind tunnel tests, team visits, track events, and meetings

Pay Range:

Oshkosh is committed to working with and offering reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities. If you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability for any part of the recruitment process, please contact our talent acquisition team by email [email protected].

Oshkosh Corporation is a merit-based Equal Opportunity Employer. Job opportunities are open for application to all qualified individuals and selection decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristic. To the extent that information is provided or collected regarding categories as provided by law it will in no way affect the decision regarding an employment application.

Oshkosh Corporation will not discharge or in any manner discriminate against employees or applicants because they have inquired about, discussed, or disclosed their own pay or the pay of another employee or applicant. However, employees who have access to the compensation information of other employees or applicants as a part of their essential job functions cannot disclose the pay of other employees or applicants to individuals who do not otherwise have access to compensation information, unless the disclosure is (a) in response to a formal complaint or charge, (b) in furtherance of an investigation, proceeding, hearing, or action, including an investigation conducted by the employer, or (c) consistent with Oshkosh Corporation's legal duty to furnish information.

Certain positions with Oshkosh Corporation require access to controlled goods and technologies subject to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations or the Export Administration Regulations. Applicants for these positions may need to be "U.S. Persons," as defined in these regulations. Generally, a "U.S. Person" is a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or an individual who has been admitted as a refugee or granted asylum.