Propulsion Engineer II

Job Description:

We are seeking a highly capable Propulsion Engineer II to join our multidisciplinary team that owns the full lifecycle of UAV propulsion systems—from system sizing and design to build, test, flight integration, and post-mission analysis. This role will focus on heavy-fuel two-stroke and jet-based propulsion platforms, supporting both developmental and operational programs.

You’ll work alongside technicians and fellow engineers to iterate rapidly on propulsion hardware, driving performance, reliability, and mission capability improvements. Candidates with experience supporting military propulsion systems, tactical aircraft, or high-performance aerospace platforms are especially encouraged to apply.

What you will do in this role:

• Design, modify, and integrate UAV propulsion systems, including both internal combustion and turbine-based architectures.
• Lead or support system-level sizing, thermal/fluid analysis, and mechanical design of propulsion subsystems (fuel, cooling, airframe integration).
• Own hardware through its lifecycle—from CAD and procurement through hands-on build, test execution, flight operations, and data review.
• Analyze test and flight data to validate system performance and inform design iterations.
• Collaborate with technicians to execute test plans and troubleshoot propulsion anomalies.
• Maintain and generate documentation including engineering drawings, models, and procedures.

Required qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 2+ years of experience in propulsion system development or related engineering roles.
• Experience owning hardware from design through test and flight.
• Strong grasp of thermodynamics, combustion systems, and fluid mechanics.
• Proficiency in Python for data analysis, automation, or modeling.
• Hands-on experience with engine assembly, test environments, and hardware debugging.
• U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.

Preferred qualifications:

• Familiarity with REFPROP, GFSSP, or similar thermal/fluid modeling tools.
• Experience supporting turbine engines for high-performance or tactical aerospace platforms, including UAVs or jet aircraft.
• Exposure to high-temperature materials, thermal protection systems, or extreme thermal environments.
• Working knowledge of engine instrumentation, sensors, and control logic.
• M.S. or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• Proficiency in Siemens NX for mechanical design and Teamcenter for PLM and BOM management.
• Experience creating and interpreting detailed engineering drawings, specs, and CAD models.
• Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, test-driven development environment.