Wind Tunnel Test Engineer

Bonus expertise in automotive or aerospace fluid mechanics, image processing for raindrops, optical diagnostics like PIV, CAD for test fixtures, and data analysis with Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW. In this role, you will lead the technical execution of wind tunnel testing to evaluate how external environmental factors specifically wind and rain impact sensor performance.

JOB TITLE: Wind Tunnel Test Engineer
LOCATION: Fremont, CA (Onsite)
PAY RANGE: $60 - $70/hr.
DURATION: 6 months

TOP 3 SKILLS:

• 2+ years in aerodynamic or automotive environmental testing with strong knowledge of fluid mechanics, boundary layer flows, and multiphase flow
• Skilled in developing standardized test procedures, designing complex setups, and operating wind tunnel instrumentation including pressure transducers, anemometers, and water spray systems
• Bonus expertise in automotive or aerospace fluid mechanics, image processing for raindrops, optical diagnostics like PIV, CAD for test fixtures, and data analysis with Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW

Role Overview:
Autonomous vehicles must operate safely in the most unpredictable environments the performance of sensors in adverse weather is a critical factor in safety. In this role, you will lead the technical execution of wind tunnel testing to evaluate how external environmental factors specifically wind and rain impact sensor performance. You will be responsible for standardizing testing methodologies to ensure repeatable and accurate assessments of sensor degradation across various weather scenarios.

Required Qualifications:

• 2+ years of relevant experience in aerodynamic testing, experimental fluid mechanics, or automotive environmental testing. (A master s degree with a focus on experimental fluid dynamics may be considered in lieu of professional experience.
• Solid foundation in Fluid Mechanics, with a specific understanding of boundary layer flows and multiphase flow principles (e.g., liquid-gas interaction, liquid breakup, droplet trajectory, and surface wetting).
• Proven ability to develop and document standardized test procedures, including the design of complex experimental setups and test matrices.
• Hands-on experience with wind tunnel instrumentation, such as pressure transducers, anemometers, and the integration of water nozzle spray systems.

Bonus Qualifications:

• Direct industry experience in applied fluid mechanics, particularly within the autonomous driving, automotive, or aerospace industries.
• Proficiency in image processing techniques (e.g., using Python, OpenCV, or MATLAB Image Processing Toolbox) for characterization of raindrop size, distribution, and velocity.
• Practical knowledge of PIV (Particle Image Velocimetry) or similar optical diagnostic methods to quantify complex airflow and droplet spray patterns.
• Experience with CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, CATIA) for designing custom test fixtures or wind tunnel model components.
• Proficiency in data acquisition (specifically IPETronik) and data analysis using Python, MATLAB, or LabVIEW to process and interpret sensor data.

BENEFITS SUMMARY: Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate or annual salary only, unless otherwise stated. In addition to base compensation, full-time roles are eligible for Medical, Dental, Vision, Commuter and 401K benefits with company matching.