Propulsion Development Engineer
Core
Advance engine hardware through rapid, test-driven iteration for high-speed aircraft systems.
Role type
Senior IC propulsion development engineer (hardware test & data analysis)
Builds
High-speed aircraft propulsion systems for defense applications
Domain
Defense aviation + propulsion engineering
Deliverable
production ML models | product features | dashboards & analysis | research | client delivery | infrastructure | physical/clinical work
Required skills
engine test campaign ownership, test plan definition, live test operations decision-making, hardware diagnostics, data reduction & reporting, Python automation, sensor/instrumentation setup, cross-functional collaboration, technical documentation, issue tracking
Preferred skills
liquid rocket engine experience, air-breathing propulsion systems, high-speed data acquisition/telemetry, thermofluids/combustion/turbomachinery expertise, iterative hardware development environment experience, multi-cycle system ownership
Technologies
Python, ticketing systems, data acquisition systems
Responsibilities
Own development engine test campaigns from planning through execution and post-test analysis; Define, author, and refine engine test plans, procedures, and setpoints aligned with program objectives; Support and make decisions during live test operations, including hot-fire and subsystem testing; Identify, diagnose, and resolve test-related engine issues across hardware, instrumentation, and procedures; Standardize and improve test data review, reduction, and reporting processes; Develop Python-based tools for data processing, visualization, and automated analysis; Translate test data into clear engineering insights, including performance characterization and root cause analysis; Drive post-test reviews and ensure actionable outcomes are captured and executed; Participate in hands-on engine build, integration, and test setup activities; Author and maintain development engine work instructions, test procedures, and technical documentation; Generate, track, and resolve engineering issues through ticketing systems; Collaborate cross-functionally with design, manufacturing, avionics, and test teams to resolve system-level challenges; Ensure proper sensor selection, instrumentation setup, and data integrity during test campaigns; Contribute to continuous improvement of test infrastructure, tooling, and development processes