Propulsion System Engineer

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

📋 Description

• Conduct steady-state and transient modeling to analyze the performance and operability of high-speed aerospace propulsion systems, supporting all stages of vehicle development, such as design, integration, and testing both on the ground and in flight.

• Contribute to the design and optimization of aerospace systems by providing precise numerical insights that are validated against physical models and test data, while working closely with multidisciplinary engineering teams.

• Lead and assist in propulsion system design and analysis tasks using traditional propulsion cycle code methods as well as advanced engineering tools.

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

• Analyze internal airflow within airbreathing propulsion flowpaths, including high-speed systems that involve complex shock and boundary layer interactions, combustion, and thermal management.

• Develop and propose design solutions aimed at enhancing the performance and operability of airbreathing propulsion systems for high-speed applications.

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

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

• Collaborate with customer technical representatives to review 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 similar sector; or a combination of education and experience that meets the above criteria.

• Proficient in the design and analysis of ramjet and scramjet engines, along with related vehicle system design and analysis.

• Proven experience applying engineering design and analysis codes for engine flowpaths, cycle analysis for various propulsion system classes, and aerothermal analysis.

• Extensive knowledge in thermodynamics and gas dynamics, with experience using analysis tools related to propulsion systems (e.g., CEA and REFPROP).

• Strong programming capabilities for modeling and analysis (e.g., Python, MATLAB/Simulink, Fortran, or C++), including experience in scripting to automate simulations and data reduction.

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

• Knowledge of ground or flight testing procedures for airbreathing propulsion systems.

• Strong analytical skills with a meticulous approach to validation, verification, and engineering precision.

• Ability to interpret engineering plans, technical drawings, and specifications effectively.

• Excellent 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 clearance.

🏝️ Benefits

• This role offers the possibility of remote work.