Manager, Flight Sciences About Otto Aerospace Otto is developing the world’s first fifth-generation business jet, designed for sustainability through the innovative use of advanced super-laminar aerodynamics and high-precision, net-shaped composites. Flight tests of our technology demonstrator validate a dramatic reduction in fuel burn and allow for a sizeable improvement in cabin comfort. Otto Aerospace is designing world-class aircraft from first principles of physics and delivering ground-breaking aircraft and economic performance.

About The Role

We are seeking a Manager of Flight Sciences to lead a multidisciplinary team responsible for the technical definition, execution, and certification of all flight sciences disciplines, including applied aerodynamics; aircraft performance; stability & control; external loads; aeroelasticity & flutter; aeroacoustics; and wind tunnel testing. This role is responsible for integrating flight sciences engineering with Flight Test, Certification, Systems, Structures, and Program Management to ensure regulatory compliance, technical rigor, and on schedule program execution. The position combines hands on technical authority with people, budget, and planning responsibility, and is a key contributor to Otto aircraft development and certification programs.

Key Responsibilities

Manage day-to-day operations of the Flight Sciences team, including staffing, hiring, mentoring, and performance management; career development and technical skill progression; and use of consultants, suppliers, and contractors as needed Promote a culture of technical excellence, data integrity, and collaborative problem solving Maintain and continuously improve Flight Sciences tools, processes, best practices, and technology/capability roadmaps Plan and execute Flight Sciences deliverables aligned with program schedule, budget, and technical maturity targets Direct aerodynamic design, configuration development, and optimization using first-principles physics and simulation-driven processes Ensure Flight Sciences outputs are clearly communicated, traceable, and integrated into program decisions Identify, track, and mitigate technical risks and uncertainties related to aerodynamic performance, handling qualities, and envelope limits Support engineering trade studies and configuration decisions with defensible, data driven analysis Serve as the technical approval authority for flight sciences analyses, reports, and certification data packages

Required Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or a related field 10+ years of experience in flight sciences, aerodynamics, aircraft performance, or flight mechanics, including leadership experience Experience leading technical teams and delivering engineering products to schedule Experience supporting flight test campaigns and correlating analysis to flight data Experience supporting flight sciences related activities as part or certification programs Experience working with civil certification standards (e.g., FAA Part 23 or Part 25) Strong understanding of aerodynamic theory; aircraft performance; aircraft handling qualities; and flight test data analysis and correlation

Preferred Qualifications

Master’s degree in aerospace engineering 15+ years of experience in flight sciences disciplines Experience with FAA Part 23 or Part 25 certification

Requirements

Experience in transonic aircraft design and laminar flow aerodynamics Experience with wind tunnel and flight test correlation, aircraft configuration development, and clean-sheet or experimental aircraft Background in high altitude, high speed, or transonic aircraft Experience with experimental or first-of-type aircraft Interpersonal Skills Active Listening: Practice gaining insight and understanding of all project stakeholders Critical Thinking: Make prompt, informed, and value-based decisions for the project Organization: Focus on agenda, schedules, frameworks, and methodologies, as well as communicating tasks