An F1 aerodynamics engineer is a key player in giving our cars the edge on race day. The aerodynamics of a Formula 1 car have a huge influence on on-track performance, and these engineers are often the brains behind our hunt for podium finishes. Between designing, testing, and optimising the car's aerodynamic properties, they help to ensure it hits the heights when it matters most.
If you’re interested in this exciting career path, you may be wondering what aerodynamics engineers do, exactly. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the role and the skills needed to thrive, with some insights from our talented aerodynamics team.
What does an aerodynamics engineer do?
The crux of an aerodynamics engineer job description is to maximise the car’s ability to cut through the air and ensuring it stays grounded at high speeds while minimising drag. Their work has a hand in some of the essential factors in F1 racing, like speed, handling, and stability of the car. From wind tunnel tests to complex 3D models, it’s a role that’s all about solving the biggest problems.
We spoke to some of our aerodynamics team to get a taste of what they do in their own words.
Tullio Nutta, an aerodynamicist, said:
“I draw the external surfaces of the rear corner and rear suspension of the car. I also prepare the run list for wind tunnel tests. In my role, I’m best at coming up with different solutions for how to do things differently and make them more efficient.”
Matthew Salisbury, who manages a team focused on improving the car’s floor, explained:
“If we make a better floor, the car has more downforce or less drag and hopefully goes faster. It’s amazing to see an idea evolve from a sketch to the wind tunnel and then turn into something that enhances performance on the track.”
Sotirios Androulakis also shared some insights into his role:
“I joined Williams in February 2019 and I’m an aerodynamics project leader. In simple terms this means I spend my days designing external surfaces for the car that make the air go more efficiently around it, as well as leading teams that collaborate together to create those surfaces. All of this has the goal of increasing downforce, reducing drag and putting more performance on the car.
Skills that make a great F1 aerodynamics engineer
Success in an aerodynamics engineer job in Formula 1 hinges on passion and interpersonal skills as much as technical prowess. These skills are some of the hallmarks of top aerodynamic engineers:
- Fluid dynamics knowledge - Aerodynamics engineers need to understand how air interacts with the car to design the best components.
- Wind tunnel testing - Engineers run tests to evaluate the car’s design, and wind tunnels are a key part of an aerodynamics engineer’s toolkit.
- Design software - Knowing your way around Computer-Aided Design (CAD) software is crucial for refining and designing parts.
- Attention to detail - F1 is a game of milliseconds, and even the smallest tweak can have a huge impact on performance. Aerodynamics engineers need a sharp eye for detail.
- Collaboration - Becoming an F1 engineer at Atlassian Williams Racing is all about teamwork. You’ll work across departments to integrate everything from design and testing to simulation into the car’s design.
Why join the aerodynamics team at Atlassian Williams Racing?
Life as an aerodynamics engineer at Atlassian Williams Racing is all about raising the bar. Perfect for anyone looking to make real impact in Formula 1, there’s a real sense of accomplishment with every successful design and piece of innovation.
You’ll also be working alongside a friendly and diverse team of experts who share your passion. Teamwork is one of the core values that make our aerodynamics team tick. The team connects with empathy and collaborates with purpose, with everyone driven by the same goal of winning together.
Matthew Salisbury shared his favourite things about the team he’s been a part of since 2012:
“The culture is really open and honest, and there’s not a hint of blame. We work together to solve problems, always looking at how we can do it better next time and learn and move forward.
The best part is the people and the environment. I really get on well with my team and those that I work with, and I just really enjoy being here with my peers and that group of people.”
Sotirios agreed that the passionate and collaborative team is the beating heart of our HQ. We win as a team and are truly stronger together.
“I love my job and the challenges it gives me. It’s a really unique working environment – one where everyone is pulling together, doing their best, working long hours but we do it as a team. Teamwork and resilience are behaviours I see every day. I actually can’t imagine a better place to work.”
Find your place as an aerodynamics engineer
If you want to be part of our future and play a key role in bringing a historic team back to the top, an aerodynamics engineering job is perfect. As we accelerate into an exciting new era with the support of Atlassian, our aerodynamics team is helping to shape our future. This is a role where you can write your own chapter in our story.
Got what it takes to create our winning formula? Join the team by taking a look at our aerodynamics jobs today or by joining our talent community.
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