Description
We are seeking a Senior Propulsion Design Engineer to support the development and delivery of propulsion hardware for the X-BAT platform, a next-generation UAV powered by a low-bypass turbofan engine.
This role spans the full lifecycle of propulsion system components - from early layout and design through production release, test support, and flight operations. You will be a key contributor to turning propulsion architecture into manufacturable, testable, and flight-ready hardware across the engine, fuel, oil, and bleed air systems.
Responsibilities
- Own the design and release of propulsion hardware supporting the engine, fuel, oil, and bleed air systems.
- Develop and maintain CAD models, drawings, and assemblies using Siemens NX with proper GD&T.
- Translate propulsion architecture and requirements into hardware that is manufacturable, testable, and robust in flight.
- Work directly with the machine shop, production, and technicians to support builds, resolve non-conformances, and drive iterative improvements.
- Support test campaigns by providing hardware design support, instrumentation accommodation, and rapid iteration based on test findings.
- Apply engineering judgment and analysis (e.g., hand calcs, ANSYS, FEA, GFSSP, REFPROP) to support sizing, load cases, and design validation.
- Support configuration management, BOM control, and change processes using Teamcenter or equivalent PLM.
- Participate in design reviews, interface control efforts, and root cause investigations related to propulsion hardware.
Required qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
- 5+ years of experience in aerospace hardware design, preferably supporting propulsion systems.
- Proficiency in CAD modeling and drawing creation (NX preferred) with sound application of GD&T.
- Experience working directly with production, technicians, and machine shops to resolve real-world build issues.
- Understanding of design for manufacturing, including machining limitations, tolerance stack-ups, and assembly workflows.
- Some hands-on experience developing assembly guidance and supporting hardware builds and test integration.
- U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
- Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.
Preferred qualifications:
- Experience with jet propulsion systems on UAVs or tactical aircraft.
- Familiarity with GFSSP, REFPROP, ANSYS, or FEA to support design trade studies and validation.
- Ability to write Python scripts for design automation, analysis, or data processing.
- Experience with interface control, fastener selection for high-vibration environments, and high-temperature materials.
- Experience designing hardware in test-driven development environments with rapid iteration cycles.
- M.S. in Aerospace Engineering or a related discipline.
Additional Information
- Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
- Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location.