Aircraft Performance Engineer

Boom Supersonic
Full_timeβ€’$107k-135k/year (USD)β€’Denver, United States

πŸ“ Job Overview

  • Job Title: Aircraft Performance Engineer
  • Company: Boom Supersonic
  • Location: Denver, Colorado, United States
  • Job Type: On-site
  • Category: Aerospace Engineering
  • Date Posted: 2025-06-20
  • Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (2-5 years)
  • Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • Develop and validate aircraft performance models across the full flight envelope.
  • Collaborate with cross-functional teams to define performance standards and operational products.
  • Ensure aircraft meet and exceed performance, efficiency, and regulatory expectations.
  • Support the development of aircraft flight manuals and operational planning documents.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role requires a strong background in aerospace engineering, with a focus on performance modeling and certification processes. Familiarity with supersonic aircraft and regulatory authorities is a plus.

πŸ’» Primary Responsibilities

  • Performance Modeling: Develop and maintain physics-based performance models for all phases of flight, including takeoff, climb, subsonic and supersonic cruise, descent, approach, and landing.
  • Data Analysis: Analyze wind tunnel and flight test data to refine and validate performance models.
  • Mission Planning: Define mission profiles, aircraft limitations, and optimal routing strategies to inform aircraft design and operational planning.
  • Certification Documentation: Support the development of aircraft flight manuals, operating manuals, and other performance-related certification documentation.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Coordinate with certification authorities (FAA, EASA, etc.) on performance compliance, documentation, and verification efforts.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with Flight Sciences, Certification, Flight Test, and Commercial teams to integrate performance insights across the product lifecycle.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This role requires a balance of technical expertise and strong communication skills to effectively collaborate with various teams and stakeholders.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s or higher degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

Experience: 2-5 years of experience in aircraft performance modeling, with a focus on fixed-wing aircraft.

Required Skills:

  • Solid understanding of aircraft aerodynamics, propulsion, and flight mechanics.
  • Experience developing and validating performance models for fixed-wing aircraft.
  • Familiarity with aircraft certification processes and associated documentation.
  • Proficiency in simulation and modeling tools such as MATLAB, Python, Simulink, or similar.
  • Experience working with wind tunnel and/or flight test data.

Preferred Skills:

  • Experience with supersonic or unconventional aircraft performance modeling.
  • Direct involvement in FAA/EASA certification projects or coordination with regulatory authorities.
  • Hands-on experience supporting Aircraft Flight Manual (AFM) or performance-related documents.
  • Understanding of airline operations, routing, or mission planning tools.
  • Experience with Flight Data Recorder (FDR) analysis, aircraft OPS, or other performance suites.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Candidates with experience in supersonic aircraft and familiarity with regulatory authorities will have a competitive advantage in this role.

πŸ“Š Web Portfolio & Project Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Detailed performance models and analysis reports demonstrating your ability to develop and validate aircraft performance models.
  • Case studies showcasing your experience with wind tunnel and flight test data analysis.
  • Examples of mission profiles and routing strategies you've developed for aircraft performance optimization.
  • Documentation highlighting your involvement in aircraft certification processes and associated documentation.

Technical Documentation:

  • Code samples and scripts demonstrating your proficiency in simulation and modeling tools.
  • Data analysis reports and presentations showcasing your ability to interpret and communicate complex performance data.
  • Project case studies illustrating your collaboration with cross-functional teams and stakeholders.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Given the technical nature of this role, a strong portfolio focusing on performance modeling, data analysis, and collaboration will be crucial for success.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The Base Salary Range for this position is $107,100 - $135,000 per year. Actual salaries will vary based on factors including but not limited to location, experience, and performance.

Benefits:

  • Long Term Incentives/Equity
  • Flexible PTO Policy
  • Many other progressive benefits

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexibility for project deadlines and maintenance windows.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Boom offers competitive compensation and benefits packages for qualified candidates. The salary range provided is a starting point for negotiations and may vary based on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: Aerospace and aviation, focused on commercial supersonic flight.

Company Size: Medium-sized, growing startup with a strong focus on innovation and collaboration.

Founded: 2014, with a mission to make the world more accessible through faster travel.

Team Structure:

  • Cross-functional engineering teams, including Flight Sciences, Propulsion, Systems, and Performance.
  • Close collaboration between engineering, certification, flight test, and commercial teams.
  • A culture that values technical rigor, creativity, and relentless execution.

Development Methodology:

  • Agile development processes, with a focus on iterative improvement and rapid prototyping.
  • Collaborative development environment, with a strong emphasis on code review and knowledge sharing.
  • A commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Company Website: boomsupersonic.com

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Boom's unique focus on supersonic commercial flight presents a challenging and rewarding work environment for candidates seeking to make a significant impact in the aerospace industry.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Aircraft Performance Engineer Career Level: This role is well-suited for mid-career professionals with 2-5 years of experience in aircraft performance modeling and certification processes. The ideal candidate will have a strong technical foundation in aerospace engineering and a proven track record of success in performance modeling and data analysis.

Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Director of Performance Engineering and collaborates closely with various engineering, certification, flight test, and commercial teams.

Technical Impact: The Aircraft Performance Engineer plays a critical role in defining how Boom's aircraft will fly in service, ensuring they meet and exceed performance, efficiency, and regulatory expectations. This role has a significant impact on the overall success of the company's mission to make the world more accessible through faster travel.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Technical Specialization: Deepen your expertise in specific aspects of aircraft performance modeling, such as supersonic cruise or operational planning.
  • Technical Leadership: Develop your leadership skills by mentoring junior team members and contributing to the development of performance engineering best practices.
  • Architecture Decisions: Contribute to high-level architecture decisions that shape the performance characteristics of Boom's aircraft and inform operational planning.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Given Boom's focus on innovation and growth, there are ample opportunities for career progression and technical specialization within the performance engineering team.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: Boom's office is a dynamic, collaborative workspace designed to foster creativity and innovation. The company encourages a flexible, open-door policy that promotes cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Office Location(s): Boom's headquarters is located in Denver, Colorado, with additional offices in Los Angeles, California, and Camarillo, California.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Environment: Boom's open office layout encourages close collaboration between team members and across disciplines.
  • Specialized Workspaces: The company provides dedicated workspaces for various engineering disciplines, including wind tunnels, flight test facilities, and simulation labs.
  • Cross-Functional Interaction: Boom's engineering teams work closely with certification, flight test, and commercial teams to ensure a seamless and efficient development process.

Work Schedule: Boom offers a flexible work schedule, with core hours from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM Mountain Time. Employees are encouraged to maintain a healthy work-life balance and take advantage of Boom's flexible PTO policy.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Boom's collaborative work environment and flexible work schedule provide an ideal setting for candidates seeking to grow both personally and professionally in the aerospace industry.

πŸ“„ Application & Technical Interview Process

Interview Process:

  • Technical Screening: A phone or video call to assess your technical proficiency in aircraft performance modeling and data analysis.
  • On-Site Interview: A visit to Boom's headquarters in Denver, Colorado, where you will meet with various team members and participate in technical challenges and case studies.
  • Final Evaluation: A discussion with the hiring manager to review your qualifications and assess your fit for the role.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Highlight your experience with performance modeling, data analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams.
  • Include case studies and examples that demonstrate your ability to develop and validate aircraft performance models.
  • Showcase your understanding of aircraft certification processes and associated documentation.
  • Emphasize your ability to communicate complex performance data and collaborate effectively with stakeholders.

Technical Challenge Preparation:

  • Brush up on your knowledge of aircraft performance modeling, data analysis, and certification processes.
  • Familiarize yourself with Boom's mission and the unique challenges of supersonic commercial flight.
  • Prepare for case studies and technical challenges that may involve performance modeling, data analysis, or collaboration with cross-functional teams.

ATS Keywords: Aircraft Performance, Aerodynamics, Propulsion, Flight Mechanics, Performance Modeling, Data Analysis, Wind Tunnel Testing, Flight Test Data, Mission Planning, Routing Strategies, Stakeholder Coordination, Aircraft Certification, Technical Writing, Collaboration, Simulation Tools.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Boom's interview process is designed to assess your technical proficiency and cultural fit within the company's collaborative and innovative work environment.

πŸ›  Technology Stack & Aircraft Infrastructure

Performance Modeling Tools:

  • MATLAB, Python, Simulink, or similar simulation and modeling tools.
  • Boeing's Performance Analysis and Modeling System (PAMS) or similar industry-standard tools.

Wind Tunnel & Flight Test Data Analysis:

  • Wind tunnel and flight test data analysis tools, such as Boeing's Wind Tunnel Analysis and Reduction (WTAR) or similar proprietary tools.
  • Flight test data analysis tools, such as Boeing's Flight Test Data Analysis and Reduction (FTDAR) or similar proprietary tools.

Certification Documentation:

  • Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
  • Adobe Acrobat or similar PDF creation and editing tools.

Collaboration & Communication:

  • Microsoft Teams or similar team collaboration platforms.
  • Email and calendar tools, such as Microsoft Outlook or Google Workspace.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Boom uses industry-standard tools for performance modeling, data analysis, and certification documentation. Familiarity with these tools and a willingness to learn new technologies will be crucial for success in this role.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Aircraft Performance Engineering Values:

  • Technical Excellence: A commitment to developing and maintaining high-quality performance models and analysis tools.
  • Collaboration: Close collaboration with cross-functional teams to ensure a seamless and efficient development process.
  • Innovation: A dedication to pushing the boundaries of aircraft performance and operational planning.
  • Customer Focus: A deep understanding of the needs and expectations of Boom's customers, including airlines and passengers.

Collaboration Style:

  • Cross-Functional Integration: Close collaboration between performance engineering, certification, flight test, and commercial teams.
  • Code Review Culture: A strong emphasis on code review and knowledge sharing within the performance engineering team.
  • Mentoring and Knowledge Sharing: A commitment to mentoring junior team members and sharing knowledge across the organization.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Boom's performance engineering team values technical excellence, collaboration, innovation, and customer focus. Candidates who embody these values will thrive in this dynamic and challenging work environment.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Technical Challenges:

  • Performance Modeling: Developing and validating aircraft performance models for supersonic cruise and other unique flight regimes.
  • Data Analysis: Analyzing complex wind tunnel and flight test data to refine and validate performance models.
  • Mission Planning: Defining mission profiles, aircraft limitations, and optimal routing strategies for supersonic commercial flight.
  • Certification Compliance: Ensuring Boom's aircraft meet and exceed performance, efficiency, and regulatory expectations.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Technical Skill Development: Deepening your expertise in aircraft performance modeling, data analysis, and certification processes.
  • Conference Attendance: Attending industry conferences and events to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices in aircraft performance engineering.
  • Certification and Licensing: Pursuing relevant certifications and licenses, such as the FAA's Aircraft Performance Engineer certification.
  • Technical Mentorship: Seeking mentorship opportunities from senior team members to develop your technical and leadership skills.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Boom's performance engineering team faces unique technical challenges and offers ample opportunities for growth and development. Candidates who embrace these challenges and seek continuous learning will excel in this role.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Technical Questions:

  • Performance Modeling: Questions related to the development and validation of aircraft performance models, including specific flight regimes and mission profiles.
  • Data Analysis: Questions related to the analysis of wind tunnel and flight test data, including data interpretation, visualization, and communication.
  • Certification Processes: Questions related to aircraft certification processes, including regulatory compliance, documentation, and verification efforts.
  • Collaboration: Questions related to working with cross-functional teams, including stakeholder coordination, communication, and project management.

Company & Culture Questions:

  • Boom's Mission: Questions related to Boom's mission to make the world more accessible through faster travel and the unique challenges of supersonic commercial flight.
  • Team Dynamics: Questions related to Boom's collaborative and innovative work environment, including cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing.
  • Career Growth: Questions related to career progression and technical specialization within the performance engineering team.

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Performance Modeling: Highlight your experience with performance modeling, including specific flight regimes and mission profiles.
  • Data Analysis: Showcase your ability to analyze complex wind tunnel and flight test data, including data interpretation, visualization, and communication.
  • Certification Compliance: Emphasize your understanding of aircraft certification processes, including regulatory compliance, documentation, and verification efforts.
  • Collaboration: Demonstrate your ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including stakeholder coordination, communication, and project management.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Boom's interview process is designed to assess your technical proficiency, cultural fit, and potential for growth within the company's innovative and collaborative work environment.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this Aircraft Performance Engineer position:

  • Submit your application through the application link provided in the job listing.
  • Portfolio Customization: Tailor your portfolio to highlight your experience with performance modeling, data analysis, and collaboration with cross-functional teams. Include case studies and examples that demonstrate your ability to develop and validate aircraft performance models.
  • Resume Optimization: Optimize your resume for aircraft performance engineering roles by emphasizing your technical skills, experience with performance modeling and data analysis, and familiarity with aircraft certification processes.
  • Technical Interview Preparation: Prepare for technical interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of aircraft performance modeling, data analysis, and certification processes. Familiarize yourself with Boom's mission and the unique challenges of supersonic commercial flight.
  • Company Research: Research Boom's mission, values, and work environment to ensure a strong cultural fit and understanding of the company's goals and objectives.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.


Application Requirements

Candidates should have a degree in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering and a solid understanding of aircraft performance modeling. Experience with certification processes and proficiency in simulation tools is also required.