Manager, Flight Sciences
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, updates, progress, and blockers
Problem Solving: Assess issues from different vantage points and formulate the best solution in addressing specific challenges
Self-Motivation: Exude the highest level of commitment and motivation to see it through from start to finish
Teamwork and Team Building: Establish a collaborative culture where people with unique personalities and skills happily work together and accountable to shared goals
Strong Business Communication: Use the right language, tone and storytelling techniques when communicating, describing, or explaining issues over email, chat, reports, presentations and other forms and channels of communication
Ability to work with domestic/international suppliers/partners effectively
Where You'll Be
** This role will initially be remote with 25% travel to our temporary facility at Meacham Airport in Fort Worth, TX. In mid to late 2026, or once our new headquarters in Jacksonville, FL is ready for occupancy, the role will transition to onsite at that location.
Benefits
Otto Aviation provides a robust benefits package that includes competitive salaries, subsidized medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) opportunities, paid short term disability, voluntary long-term disability and additional term life, with 15 paid days off, 13-14 paid holidays, and paid sick leave. Depending on seniority and role, some roles qualify for potential bonuses and stock options.
Otto Aviation is an Equal Opportunity Employer
We are committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in every aspect of our hiring process. All applicants will be considered for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran status, or disability. We believe that a diverse team brings fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and greater success. The more inclusive we are, the stronger we become. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.
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