Junior Aerodynamics Test Engineer

This role reports to the Head of Aerodynamic Engineering or their designee and is based in Maranello and/or Castelnuovo Rangone, Italy. The role supports the delivery and contribution of departmental and organisational objectives. Responsible for supporting day‑to‑day operations within their area of responsibility, working collaboratively with colleagues and stakeholders to ensure high standards of service, compliance, and performance. Adherence to organisational policies and procedures, effective communication with line management, and a commitment to continuous improvement and inclusive ways of working is essential.

Role Principles

• Act with integrity, always upholding the highest professional and ethical standards;
• Drive innovation and change to continuously improve ways of working and outcomes;
• Pursue operational excellence, ensuring efficiency, quality, and continuous improvement;
• Collaborate inclusively, building strong partnerships to achieve shared goals;
• Maintain a customer‑focused approach, prioritising the needs of internal and external stakeholders;
• Champion sustainability by embedding responsible and environmentally conscious practices into everyday work.

Key Responsibilities

Role‑Specific Responsibilities:

• Support wind tunnel testing activities and model preparation, working closely with Senior Wind Tunnel Engineers;
• Carry out hands‑on tasks within the wind tunnel environment, gaining practical experience of processes and supporting daily testing activities under guidance;
• Assist with day-to-day wind tunnel model preparation and handling activities, including:
  • Supporting the assembly and pre‑fit of aerodynamic components;
  • Assisting with basic functional checks of electronic and measurement systems;
  • Supporting 3D scanning and model verification tasks;
  • Helping ensure pressure taps and associated systems are correctly installed and maintained.
• Support wind tunnel test execution by assisting with setup, configuration changes, and post‑test activities;
• Follow defined test procedures and plans under the guidance of more experienced engineers;
• Assist with the collection, organisation, and basic validation of wind tunnel test data;
• Contribute to the preparation of test summaries, basic reports, and documentation;
• Support the maintenance and updating of documentation related to wind tunnel model components and configurations;
• Work closely with teams across Aerodynamics, Design Office, and Model Shop to support ongoing test activities;
• Develop technical knowledge of aerodynamic testing methods and wind tunnel best practices through on‑the‑job training.

Operational Delivery:

• Carry out day‑to‑day tasks efficiently and within agreed timescales;
• Ensure work meets expected service, quality, and compliance standards;
• Demonstrate accountability and professionalism in all activities.

Team & Stakeholder Collaboration:

• Build positive working relationships with colleagues and stakeholders;
• Participate in meetings, briefings, and forums as required;
• Respond to queries within scope, escalating more complex matters when necessary.

Compliance & Governance:

• Adhere to relevant legislation, organisational policies, and internal controls;
• Handle information responsibly, including confidential or sensitive data;
• Support audit, governance, and risk management activities as required.

Continuous Improvement:

• Contribute ideas and feedback to improve processes and ways of working;
• Participate in team initiatives, projects, or improvement activities.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Undertake any other reasonable duties consistent with the level and purpose of the role, as assigned by the line manager.

Person Specification

Essential Qualifications & Experience:

• A degree in engineering is required, with a specialization in Aerodynamics, Mechanics, or an equivalent qualification;
• Experience gained through internships, thesis work, Formula Student, academic projects, or student competitions is highly valued;
• Prior professional experience in wind tunnel testing or motorsport is advantageous.

Resilience & Composure:

• Maintains calm and focus in high-pressure, fast-paced environments;
• Able to handle setbacks and adapt quickly to changing circumstances.

Integrity & Discretion:

• Trusted to manage confidential information and sensitive team matters;
• Upholds the highest standards of professionalism and ethical conduct.

Team-Oriented:

• Collaborative mindset with a commitment to team cohesion and shared success;
• Willingness to mentor and develop talent within the organisation.

Adaptability & Flexibility:

• Comfortable with extensive travel and irregular working hours, including weekends and race days;
• Open to innovation and continuous improvement in processes and culture.

Equipment and Applications

• Exposure to wind tunnel facilities, model shop environments, and basic hand tools under supervision;
• Basic knowledge or academic exposure to CAD software; experience with CATIA/3DX is an advantage;
• Data Acquisition experience is helpful;
• Have an excellent understanding of English language;
• Foundational understanding of vehicle aerodynamics and engineering principles;
• Initial experience or academic exposure to CAD tools.