Propulsion System Engineer

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Virginia.

📋 Description

• Conduct steady-state and transient modeling of high-speed aerospace propulsion systems to enhance vehicle development across all stages, including design, integration, and both ground and flight testing.

• Provide valuable contributions to aerospace system design and optimization by generating precise numerical insights that are validated against physical models and test data, while working collaboratively with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

• Oversee and assist in propulsion system design and analytical tasks utilizing traditional propulsion cycle code methodologies and cutting-edge engineering tools.

• Create innovative physics-based design and analysis tools for various propulsion system components and technologies.

• Analyze internal airflow within airbreathing propulsion flowpaths, particularly in high-speed systems characterized by complex shock and boundary layer interactions, combustion, and thermal management.

• Propose and advocate design solutions aimed at enhancing airbreathing propulsion performance and operability for high-speed systems.

• Participate in multidisciplinary design optimization (MDO) initiatives, including the integration of propulsion models with aerodynamics, airframe structures, power systems, and controls simulations.

• Generate clear technical documentation, analysis summaries, charts, and presentations for both internal reviews and external stakeholders.

• Collaborate with customer technical representatives to evaluate and discuss analysis activities and outcomes.

⛳️ Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering or a related field.

• 10-15+ years of experience in high-speed airbreathing propulsion or a comparable industry; or a combination of education and experience equivalent to the above.

• Proficiency in the design and analysis of ramjet and scramjet engines and associated vehicle system design and analysis.

• Proven ability to apply engineering design and analysis codes for engine flowpaths, cycle analysis for various types of propulsion systems, and aerothermal analysis.

• Extensive knowledge in thermodynamics and gas dynamics, including experience with propulsion system-related analysis tools (e.g., CEA and REFPROP).

• Strong programming capabilities for modeling and analysis (e.g., Python, MATLAB/Simulink, Fortran, or C++), including scripting for simulation automation and data reduction.

• Experience with high-speed vehicle design, propulsion/airframe integration, trajectory analysis, CFD, and optimization codes is advantageous.

• Familiarity with ground or flight testing of airbreathing propulsion systems.

• Analytical mindset with a strong emphasis on validation, verification, and engineering precision.

• Proficient in interpreting engineering plans, technical drawings, and specifications.

• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills.

• Active U.S. security clearance is preferred; candidates must be U.S. citizens and eligible to obtain and maintain a security clearance.

🏝️ Benefits

• This position offers eligibility for remote work.