Aircraft Performance & Operations Engineer

The Aircraft Performance Engineer will play a key role in advancing the design, validation, and deployment of aircraft performance models and algorithms that power Jeppesen ForeFlight's next generation of flight efficiency capabilities. This position combines aircraft performance expertise with modern software development practices. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working across engineering disciplines - from aerodynamic modeling to data pipelines and API integration.Key Responsibilities:Develop, calibrate, and validate aircraft performance models using manufacturer data, flight test results, and recorded flight dataAnalyze aerodynamic, propulsion, and weight characteristics to quantify performance across all flight phasesDerive and optimize algorithms that translate aircraft performance parameters into actionable flight guidanceCollaborate with software engineers and data scientists to integrate performance models into production systems and applicationsContribute to data interface specifications, API design, and service-level requirements for aircraft performance servicesEnsure model implementations are computationally efficient, scalable, and consistent with operational accuracy standardsAnalyze flight data (QAR/FDR) to identify trends, anomalies, and performance deviationsDevelop and maintain scripts and tools to process and visualize large flight datasetsPerform statistical validation of model outputs using empirical flight data and automated regression testingDevelop and execute verification test plans for new or updated aircraft performance models.Document assumptions, inputs, limitations, and validation results for internal review and audit.Collaborate with product, QA, and customer teams to ensure high confidence and traceability of performance resultsPartner with cross-functional teams in flight operations, data science, and mobile development to align model outputs with operational use casesCommunicate complex technical findings clearly to stakeholders of varying technical backgroundsServe as an internal subject matter expert on aircraft performance and flight efficiencyBasic Qualifications:Bachelor's or Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering or equivalent experience5-10 years of experience in aircraft performance engineering, flight physics, or operational analysisStrong understanding of aerodynamic theory, propulsion performance, weight and balance, and flight mechanicsExperience working with aircraft manufacturer documentation such as AFM, FCOM, and FPPMProficiency with Python for numerical modeling, data analysis, and automation (NumPy, pandas, SciPy)Experience handling and analyzing recorded flight data (QAR, FDR, or similar formats)Familiarity with version control systems (Git) and collaborative software development practicesStrong communication skills and an ability to work effectively in a multi-disciplinary environmentPreferred Qualifications:Experience building or maintaining software components in a cloud environment (AWS preferred)Knowledge of airline operations, cost index theory, and flight optimization principlesExperience working at an airline in a performance engineering roleExperience contributing to or consuming mobile application services (Swift or Kotlin) is a plusPilot or aviation enthusiastAbout Jeppesen ForeFlight:Jeppesen ForeFlight is a leading provider of innovative aviation software solutions, serving the Commercial, Business, Military, and General Aviation sectors globally. Combining Jeppesen's 90-year legacy of accurate aeronautical data with ForeFlight's expertise in cutting-edge aviation technology, the company delivers an integrated suite of tools designed to enhance safety, improve operational efficiency, and sharpen decision-making.Why You Should Join:At ForeFlight, we know you want a rewarding career. To do that, you need challenging projects, a good work environment, and awesome coworkers. We believe in our employees, and we empower them to make a direct impact on our products and services messaging. We strive to provide ForeFlighters and their loved ones with a world-class benefits experience, focused on supporting their physical, financial, and emotional wellbeing. Our benefits package includes but not limited to the following:Medical, dental, vision insurance with Employer paid health premiumsOpen PTO Policy401(k) with up to 10% company matching and immediate vesting12 Weeks Paid Maternity Leave4 Weeks Paid Paternity LeaveFlight Training RewardsTuition StipendPay is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well market and business considerations: Summary Pay Range: $152,000-$198,000Jeppesen ForeFlight - EOE including Disability/Vets | Pay Transparency | E-Verify ParticipantEqual Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with DisabilitiesThis employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.