Senior Aerodynamics/Flight Dynamics Analyst (Launch Vehicles/Missiles)

Company Overview:

X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. is a cutting-edge aerospace technology company at the forefront of revolutionizing space launch and transportation. With a commitment to innovation and a mission to advance space exploration, we are always on the lookout for talented individuals to join our dynamic team.

We are looking for talented and passionate individuals who want to join a team that is disrupting the aerospace industry with innovative and cost-effective additively manufactured energetics for the solid rocket motor and launch vehicle market. X-Bow is also designing and building a suite of modular solid rocket motors and small launch vehicles for both orbital and suborbital launch services.

Location: Remote, but must be based in one of the following states: Alabama, Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, New Mexico, Texas or Utah

About Us:

At X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc., we aim to push the boundaries of what's possible in space technology. Our diverse team of experts is dedicated to developing innovative launch systems, spacecraft, and solutions that will shape the future of space exploration. As we continue to grow, we are excited to welcome talented professionals from various backgrounds who share our passion for the stars.

About the Role:

X-Bow Systems is looking to fill an Aerodynamics/Flight Dynamics Analyst position to support the development, analysis, test, and operation of launch vehicle and solid rocket motors. As an Aerodynamics Analyst, you will have a key role in developing aerodynamic models for launch vehicles, reentry vehicles, and solid rocket motors, and using these models to perform analysis to inform design and operation of developed systems. Additionally, analysis performed in this role will be partnered with Flight Safety to better understand system performance and behavior.

Responsibilities:

• Design and optimization of aerodynamic characteristics of unguided and guided rockets


• Development of aerodynamic models for rocket systems and payload reentry vehicles through the use of Missile DATCOM and commercial/government CFD codes


• Determination of vehicle attributes for stability and control


• Identification of vehicle characteristics for design improvements to missiles, projectiles, or reentry vehicles


• Support for system architecture trade studies during development and design of launch vehicles and motors


• Design and execution of wind tunnel force and moment tests for aerodynamic modeling


• Development and execution of 3 DOF and 6 DOF trajectory models

Required Skills & Qualifications:

• 10 years industry experience in: vehicle design for stability and control, aerodynamic prediction, wind tunnel testing, aerodynamic model generation, trajectory simulation, external flow CFD solutions


• Knowledge of mechanics of flight: including, aerodynamics, stability and control, propulsion, vehicle mass properties requirements


• Ability to build flight simulations and characterize a flight system's performance


• Familiarity with optimizing trajectories and maneuvers to meet mission objectives and mission planning; including familiarity with industry-recognized tools such as TAOS, OTIS, POST2, STK or GMAT


• Ability to work in a team environment to support the early phases of a program; including, concept development, flight system design, performance and risk assessments


• Ability to conduct flight safety analyses and day-of-launch simulation support


• Experience analyzing flight control systems for aerospace vehicles including, fins/canards, TVC, ACS, etc.


• Proficiency in numerical computing environments (e.g., MATLAB, Mathematica, Python, C) with expertise in capturing, processing, analyzing, searching, and visualization of large datasets


• Ability to contribute to a multi-disciplinary technical team for development and execution of flight system tests


• Ability to complete assignments with little or no supervision


• Ability to manage multiple tasks in a dynamic environment


• Demonstrated oral and written presentation skills

Additional Attributes that will be Considered for Position Selection:

• Experience with the aerodynamic design of missiles, boosters, aircraft, projectiles or reentry vehicles


• Experience with aerodynamics in all flight regimes: subsonic, transonic, supersonic, and hypersonic


• Expertise in rapid trajectory optimization for design of flight systems


• Experience with orbital mechanics, orbital transfer as well as atmospheric boost, exo-atmospheric flight, atmospheric entry and descent


• Experience with optimization software (e.g., GPOPS-II, Dakota, SNOPT) applicable to trajectory optimization


• Experience with 3D simulator visualization and plotting tools (e.g. SIMDIS, STK visualization)


• Ability to technically engage with subject matter experts regarding aeroelastic, aerothermodynamic, guidance, navigation and control, and mechanical analyses; parachute and recovery systems; launcher systems


• Familiarity with US rocket launch ranges and range safety requirements


• Experience with the development and implementation of multi-fidelity models, including uncertainty models, for use in simulation of guidance, navigation and control analyses as well as flight safety analyses

What We Offer:

- The chance to work on groundbreaking projects in the aerospace industry

- A collaborative and inclusive work environment with flexible and remote options

- Opportunities for career growth and development

- Competitive compensation and benefits

X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. (pronounced "Crossbow") is a U.S. defense technology and rocket propulsion company that has developed an innovative, low-cost method to manufacture solid rocket motors. Our propulsion technology, space launch, and modular boost platforms make us a unique and highly desirable aerospace supplier to the defense and national security industries. General Disclosure: X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc. is based on merit, competence, and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status.

Thank you for your interest in joining X-Bow Launch Systems, Inc., the space revolution on a solid foundation!