Principal Aerospace Engineer - Multidisciplinary Design, Analysis, and Optimization

The posting, as Firestorm wrote it

Who We Are

At Firestorm, we are building the future of expeditionary defense manufacturing and autonomous systems. Modern conflict has exposed a fundamental problem: the systems needed most by operators are often too expensive, too slow to produce, and too difficult to sustain at scale. Firestorm exists to change that.

We develop mission-adaptable aerial systems and deployable manufacturing infrastructure designed to put capability directly into the hands of the warfighter. From modular unmanned aircraft to xCell — our deployable microfactory — our goal is to make defense systems rapidly deployable, adaptable, and producible at the point of need.

We are looking for builders, operators, and problem-solvers who want to work on meaningful technology with real-world impact.

About the Role

Firestorm Labs is seeking a highly skilled and motivated Aerospace Engineer to lead the development of our in-house Multidisciplinary Design, Analysis, and Optimization (MDAO) tool. This tool will sit at the heart of how Firestorm designs its next-generation of mission-adaptable unmanned aerial systems, coupling aerodynamics, propulsion, structures, mass properties, stability & control, performance, and cost models into a unified, automated design environment.
You will architect the framework, build and integrate the discipline models, and put the tool to work running the trade studies and design optimizations that shape our vehicles. This position requires a deep foundation in aircraft conceptual and preliminary design, coupled with strong software development skills and practical experience building or working within MDAO environments.

What You’ll Do

• Architect, develop, and maintain Firestorm’s MDAO framework (e.g., built on OpenMDAO or a comparable environment), including the underlying data structures, solver strategies, and workflow orchestration.
• Develop and integrate discipline analysis modules — aerodynamics (vortex-lattice, panel, and CFD-based), propulsion performance decks, structures and mass properties, stability & control, and mission/performance analysis.
• Build parametric geometry pipelines (e.g., OpenVSP or CAD-integrated) that enable rapid exploration of unconventional UAS configurations.
• Implement and apply optimization methods including gradient-based and gradient-free optimization, design of experiments, and surrogate modeling.
• Validate tool outputs against wind tunnel, flight test, and higher-fidelity analysis data, and quantify model uncertainty.
• Execute vehicle-level trade studies and sizing analyses to support new product development and customer-driven configuration changes.
• Work cross-functionally with airframe, propulsion, manufacturing, and autonomy teams to ensure the tool reflects real-world design constraints, including additive manufacturing considerations.
• Establish best practices for version control, testing, documentation, and continuous integration of engineering software.

Required Qualification
[…]
ort-term and long-term disability insurance, 100% covered by Firestorm. Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.

• Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more. Additional work-life services, such as free legal and financial support, are available to you as well.

Export Control Compliance

To conform to U.S. government export control regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Export Administration Regulations (EAR), you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or otherwise eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State or U.S. Department of Commerce.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance. We actively encourage members of recognized minorities, women, Veterans, and those with disabilities to apply, and we work to create a welcoming and supportive environment for all applicants throughout the interview process.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment. If you require accommodations or assistance during the application process, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at careers@launchfirestorm.com so we can provide the support you need.

Compensation
The base pay range for this role is $145,000 – $215,000 per year.