Senior Propulsion Engineer-UAV IC Piston Engines and Jet Engines

Role Overview

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development of IC piston engines and jet propulsion systems for UAV applications.
• Define propulsion architecture, performance requirements, packaging, interfaces, and integration constraints for UAV platforms.
• Perform engineering analysis covering combustion, mechanical design, thermal behavior, vibration, durability, cooling, fuel systems, and overall system integration.
• Design and develop propulsion subsystems including intake, exhaust, fuel delivery, lubrication, cooling, mounting, and engine integration hardware.
• Manage prototype development from concept through detailed design, manufacturing follow-up, assembly, and functional testing.
• Plan and execute bench tests, endurance tests, performance tests, and validation activities for propulsion systems and subcomponents.
• Analyze test data, identify issues, lead root cause investigations, and implement design improvements.
• Support integration of propulsion systems into UAV platforms in collaboration with airframe, controls, electrical, manufacturing, and flight test teams.
• Drive industrialization and production readiness, including manufacturability improvements, part standardization, process definition, inspection planning, and production support.
• Prepare and maintain engineering deliverables including drawings, BOMs, technical specifications, test procedures, qualification plans, and manufacturing documentation.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Automotive Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in IC piston engines, UAV propulsion systems, small gas turbines, turbojet engines, or similar powertrain or propulsion applications.
• Hands-on experience with CAD tools for propulsion component and assembly design, and CAE tools for engineering analysis and validation.
• Demonstrated experience in design, prototyping, testing, and industrialization of propulsion products.
• Strong understanding of engine systems, thermodynamics, combustion, rotating machinery, vibration, thermal management, and mechanical integration.
• Hands-on experience in prototype build, bench testing, troubleshooting, and performance development.
• Experience supporting transition from development to production, including DFM, process definition, supplier coordination, and production support.
• Strong technical documentation and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and lead technical development activities in a startup environment.