Senior Rotor Dynamics Engineer

Overview

As a Senior Rotor Dynamics Engineer, you will play an integral role in building knowledge of one of the most unique and important subsystems on the Joby aircraft, its propeller system. You will use industry-standard tools for rotorcraft analysis to model and analyze our design. You will create aeromechanical data to support certification and development activities. You will validate the models against experimental and flight test data. You will engage with a variety of teams, including loads, aeroelasticity, aeroacoustics, noise & vibration, flight dynamics, airframe and actuators, flight testing, testing, certification, and more. The role requires a self-driven individual with the skills and desire to advance the state of the art of rotor dynamics for eVTOL aircraft. A strong mathematical background with a firm grasp on the fundamentals of the physics involved is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain aeromechanical models of the propeller system using RCAS and higher fidelity CFD/CSD methods

• Perform aeroelastic loads (static design and fatigue) and stability analyses of the propeller system, including linear and nonlinear methods

• Create aeromechanical databases for the propeller system

• Develop corrections for aerodynamic and structural RCAS models using appropriate application of theory, numerical and empirical methods

• Design flight, system, and subsystem tests for validation of rotor dynamics models

• Correctly interpret test data to correlate and validate propeller aeroelastic models from combinations of ground and flight testing

• Work closely with the propeller design team on modeling of aerodynamic and inertial loading of the blades and mechanisms

• Define design criteria using analysis and empirical data for the propeller system

Required

• M.Sc. in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or a relevant discipline

• 10+ years of working experience in aircraft or rotorcraft external loads or a Ph.D. in a related field + 5 years

• Previous leadership experience, including directly managing others in the external loadsdisciplines related to rotordynamic loads

• In-depth understanding of regulatory external loads requirements, analysis methodsand techniques related to showing of FAA/Military rotordynamic loads requirements,aerodynamic concepts and methods, external loading scenarios, free body diagrams,and behavior of aircraft components

• Experience performing analysis on aircraft structure, powerplant, flight control and/orrotordynamic systems

• Excellent problem-solving skills, including the ability to work both independently andhighly-collaboratively with team members within the company

• Ability to quickly and effectively communication issues and resolutions to problems atall levels within the company, including Leadership team members

• Highly proactive attitude with the ability to manage multiple assignments, and beresponsive to customers

• Ability to work as part of a team in a fast-paced dynamic environment

• Strong written and verbal communication skills and organized planning andDocumentation

• Advanced proficiency in hand calculations and finite element analysis, includingnonlinear static and dynamic analysis of composite structures and metallic structures

• Ability to generate and review detailed analysis reports and aircraft type certificationdocuments

• Proficiency with computational engineering and analysis tools including CAD, FEA (FEMAP, Abaqus), MATLAB, Python, Linux OS, GitHub

• Demonstrated aircraft certification experience, preferably civil airplanes and/orRotorcraft

• Demonstrated ability to mentor and develop team members

• Strong fundamental grasp of rotor dynamics, aerodynamics, structural mechanics, structural dynamics, finite-element analysis and multi-body dynamics

• Experience with RCAS or similar comprehensive rotorcraft analysis tools and an advanced understanding of its capabilities and limitations

• Demonstrated self-starter with independent problem solving capabilities

• The ability to bring traditional and novel approaches to bear in the application of regulations, guidance material, and engineering specifications

Desired

• Experience with high performance computing

• Ability to set up batch simulations using Linux/Unix tools and methods (bash, Python, Slurm/PBS)

• Experience with and understanding of high fidelity CFD/CSD methods

• Experience with flight and/or ground rotor dynamic testing methods and theory

Compensation at Joby consists of base pay and Restricted Stock Units (RSUs). The target base pay for this position is $140,500 - $187,400/yr. The compensation package will be determined by job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Joby also offers a comprehensive benefits package, including paid time off, healthcare benefits, a 401(k) plan with a company match, an employee stock purchase plan (ESPP), short-term and long-term disability coverage, life insurance, and more.

Additional Information

Joby Aviation is an equal opportunity employer.