Principal Systems Engineer - Aerodynamics

Date: 11 Mar 2026Company: EDGE Group PJSCDepartment: EngineeringLocation: ADASI HQ, Abu Dhabi, UAEReporting To: Lead Systems Engineer / Chief EngineerEntity: ADASI (A subsidiary of EDGE Group)Job PurposeThe Systems Engineer – Aerodynamics is responsible for the design, analysis, validation, and integration of aerodynamic solutions for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). This role ensures that aerodynamic performance aligns with mission objectives, structural constraints, propulsion integration, and regulatory requirements. The engineer contributes to concept design, flight performance optimization, and multidisciplinary system‑level trade studies that directly influence platform capabilities and survivability.Key ResponsibilitiesAerodynamic Analysis & DesignPerform aerodynamic modeling and analysis of airframes, control surfaces, intakes, exhausts, and payload fairings using both analytical and computational methods (including CFD).Lead the generation and validation of aerodynamic databases for use in flight simulation, stability & control, and autopilot design.Develop and refine airframe geometry to optimize lift, drag, stability, control authority, and aerodynamic efficiency across different flight regimes.Translate aerodynamic performance requirements into system‑level specifications and subsystem interfaces (e.g., propulsion, control, structures).Support trade studies related to aerodynamic shaping, flight envelope definition, stability margins, and control system architecture.Collaborate with structural, propulsion, flight controls, and systems engineering teams to ensure balanced design integration.Simulation, Testing & ValidationExecute CFD simulations, wind tunnel correlation, and performance predictions to validate aerodynamic models.Support the definition and execution of wind tunnel tests, flight tests, and aerodynamic load validation.Analyze test results and refine models to improve fidelity and platform performance predictions.Documentation & ComplianceGenerate documentation including aerodynamic analysis reports, system‑level performance documentation, and airworthiness compliance reports.Ensure compliance with applicable aerospace standards such as CS-UAS, MIL-STD-1797, and internal EDGE/ADASI design standards.Contribute to certification documentation, including flight test reports on e.g. stability & control, performance and flying qualities.Collaboration & Technical SupportProvide aerodynamic input during program reviews such as SRR, PDR, CDR, TRR, and Formal Qualification Reviews.Interface with internal design teams, external stakeholders, and regulatory bodies as needed.Support design activities for manufacturability and maintainability from an aerodynamic perspective.Qualifications & ExperienceEducational BackgroundBachelor’s Degree in Aeronautical/Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field with emphasis in Aerodynamics (REQUIRED)Master’s Degree in Aerodynamics, Flight Mechanics, or Computational Fluid Dynamics (PREFERRED)Professional ExperienceMinimum 10+ years of experience in aerodynamics within aerospace, UAV, or defense programs.Experience in aerodynamic design, CFD analysis, and airframe development in UAVs, aircraft, or guided missile systems.Exposure to aero‑elasticity, static & dynamic stability, and aerodynamic loads is prerequisite.Technical SkillsCFD tools (ANSYS Fluent, STAR-CCM+, OpenFOAM, or similar)CAD and geometry preparation tools (e.g., CATIA, NX, SolidWorks)Flight performance and stability analysis tools (MATLAB/Simulink, AVL, XFOIL, Athena Vortex Lattice, or in-house codes)Demonstrated understanding of:Subsonic and transonic flow behaviorControl surface sizing, effectiveness, and dynamic behaviorWind tunnel testing techniques and instrumentationFamiliar with airworthiness and flight performance standards relevant to UAVs and defense systemsStrong analytical and problem‑solving skillsExcellent written and verbal technical communication abilitiesCapable of working across multidisciplinary engineering teamsDetail‑oriented, with focus on safety, reliability, and performance optimizationStrategic thinker with awareness of mission‑level design trade‑offsPreferred CertificationsINCOSE ASEP or CSEP – AdvantageousCertification in CFD or aerodynamic analysis from OEM or accredited provider – PreferredAS9100D Quality Awareness – PreferredAdditional RequirementsEligible for UAE defense/security clearanceWillingness to travel for wind tunnel tests, flight test campaigns, and supplier engagementsFluent in English (Arabic is an advantage)#J-18808-Ljbffr