Aerodynamics CAD Engineer

Ford Motor Company

. Build and modify 3D surfaces and geometry to translate aerodynamic design intent and CFD/wind tunnel feedback into usable CAD models .

Posted 9/22/2026full-timeUnited StatesMid-LevelSenior💰 $65,100 - $166,200 per yearWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

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Demonstrates expertise in 3D CAD modeling and surfacing techniques, particularly for aerodynamic applications, while effectively collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize designs for rapid prototyping and wind tunnel testing.

Highest-signal resume keywords

3D CAD ModelingSurfacing TechniquesMechanical Component DesignGeometric Dimensioning And Tolerancing (GD&T)Teamcenter/3DX

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills

CatiaNXSolidWorksICEM SurfAliasAdditive ManufacturingCFD MeshingRapid PrototypingMechanical ModelingAerodynamic Geometry

Soft Skills

TeamworkCollaboration

Tools & Technologies

3D PrintingCNC MachiningPLM Software

Industry Keywords

AutomotiveMotorsportsWind Tunnel TestingAerodynamicsDesign For Manufacturing

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Build and modify 3D surfaces and geometry to translate aerodynamic design intent and CFD/wind tunnel feedback into usable CAD models
Design mechanical components, brackets, and mounting hardware to integrate aero devices and instrumentation onto full-scale and scale-model vehicles
Prepare and optimize CAD geometry for rapid prototyping, including 3D printing/additive manufacturing, of scale models for wind tunnel testing
Rapidly iterate surface and mechanical geometry to support quick-turn CFD studies, wind tunnel builds, and aero correlation loops
Manage CAD/surfacing content lifecycle within the PLM structure using Teamcenter/3DX to keep aero and design teams aligned
Support the Motorsports Aerodynamics group by translating aero performance targets into precise, CFD-ready 3D surfaces and physical hardware
Work with aerodynamicists to convert wind tunnel and simulation findings into geometry for evaluation, iteration, and validation
Design mechanical components and mounting hardware and prepare geometry for rapid prototyping of scale models used in the wind tunnel program

Requirements

What you’ll need

Associate's degree in a technical discipline or equivalent design experience within the automotive field or equivalent combination of relevant education and experience
3+ years of experience in an automotive/motorsports product development environment
2+ years of experience surfacing and mechanical modeling in Catia (GSD/ISB), 3DX, NX, SolidWorks, ICEM Surf, Alias, or similar tools
Working knowledge of surfacing techniques for functional/aerodynamic geometry, including freeform surfaces, lofts, and blends
Experience designing mechanical components/hardware and preparing models for rapid prototyping or additive manufacturing
Capability to use 3D CAD/surfacing software as a collaborative tool in a rapid-iteration environment
Strong teamwork and collaboration skills, especially with aerodynamics and performance engineering teams
Understanding and proficiency in Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD&T)
Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent design experience within the automotive/motorsports field (preferred)
Experience surfacing geometry specifically for CFD meshing and simulation input (preferred)
Direct experience supporting scale-model wind tunnel builds, including design for 3D-printed or CNC-machined model components (preferred)
Familiarity with CFD pre-processing/meshing requirements (preferred)
Experience with vehicle architecture, chassis, or underbody aero components (preferred)
Knowledge of design-for-manufacturing processes for additive manufacturing and composite/aero bodywork (preferred)

Benefits

Comp & perks

Immediate medical, dental, vision and prescription drug coverage
Flexible family care days
Paid parental leave
New parent ramp-up programs
Subsidized back-up child care
Family building benefits including adoption and surrogacy expense reimbursement and fertility treatments
Vehicle discount program for employees and family members
Management leases
Tuition assistance
Established and active employee resource groups
Paid time off for individual and team community service
Generous schedule of paid holidays, including the week between Christmas and New Year’s Day
Paid time off
Option to purchase additional vacation time