Lead Propulsion Systems Engineer – Special Programs

This position is listed on behalf of a partner company, who manages all applications and next steps. Our partner is looking for a Lead Propulsion Systems Engineer – Special Programs based in United States.

This role offers the opportunity to drive advanced aerospace development efforts through innovative propulsion system engineering. You will lead the technical direction of propulsion concepts for prototype vehicles and next-generation mobility solutions. Working within a highly agile engineering environment, you will contribute from early feasibility studies through design, testing, and flight support. The position requires deep propulsion expertise combined with the ability to collaborate across multiple engineering disciplines. You will have significant ownership in shaping technical strategies, evaluating emerging technologies, and solving complex challenges. This is an opportunity for an experienced engineer to influence cutting-edge programs where speed, creativity, and technical excellence are essential.

Accountabilities:: As a Lead Propulsion Systems Engineer, you will own propulsion engineering activities within advanced programs, providing technical leadership across concept development, analysis, prototyping, and integration efforts. You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to define solutions, evaluate opportunities, and deliver reliable propulsion architectures for complex aerospace applications.

Lead propulsion system design and analysis activities, including engine and motor sizing, performance modeling, fuel consumption analysis, and propulsion-airframe integration.

Drive rapid prototyping initiatives from early concepts through detailed design, ground testing, and flight test support.

Establish technical approaches, standards, and analytical methods for propulsion-related development activities.

Evaluate the technical feasibility of emerging concepts, mission requirements, and new opportunities.

Develop technical documentation, trade studies, and engineering analysis packages to support design reviews and strategic decisions.

Collaborate with engineering teams and program leaders to align technical execution with project goals, timelines, and constraints.

Support discussions with external stakeholders when required, providing technical expertise and representing program capabilities.

Contribute beyond core propulsion responsibilities when needed to support broader advanced development initiatives.

Maintain compliance with technical, operational, confidentiality, and regulatory requirements throughout all activities.

Requirements:

The ideal candidate brings extensive propulsion engineering experience, strong technical judgment, and the ability to operate independently in a fast-moving aerospace environment. You should be comfortable balancing deep specialization with cross-functional problem-solving and taking ownership of complex engineering challenges.

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, or a related technical field; advanced degree preferred.

8–12 years of relevant engineering experience, including work in aircraft propulsion design, analysis, or advanced development programs.

Demonstrated expertise in propulsion system modeling, performance analysis, and propulsion-airframe integration.

Experience with hybrid-electric propulsion, turbo-generator architectures, or similar advanced propulsion technologies is a plus.

Ability to support the full product development lifecycle, from concept definition through prototype testing.

Strong capability in evaluating early-stage technical concepts and translating requirements into practical engineering solutions.

Comfortable working with autonomy, taking technical ownership, and operating effectively without extensive oversight.

Ability to collaborate across multidisciplinary teams and contribute outside of a primary technical specialty when needed.

Must qualify as a U.S. Person under applicable export control regulations and be eligible to obtain and maintain a U.S. government security clearance.

Benefits:

Competitive base salary range of approximately $138,200 – $190,100 USD, depending on skills, experience, and qualifications.

Performance-driven compensation philosophy with rewards aligned to individual and company impact.

Opportunity to work on advanced aerospace programs shaping the future of sustainable air mobility.

Collaborative, inclusive, and innovative engineering environment.

Access to meaningful technical ownership and the ability to influence next-generation aviation technologies.

Supportive workplace culture focused on diversity, inclusion, and professional growth.

Flexible benefits and employee support programs designed to support long-term career success.

How Jobgether works: We use an AI-powered matching process to ensure your application is reviewed quickly, objectively, and fairly against the role's core requirements. Our system identifies the top-fitting candidates, and this shortlist is then shared directly with the hiring company. The final decision and next steps (interviews, assessments) are managed by their internal team. We appreciate your interest and wish you the best!  Why Apply Through Jobgether?    Data Privacy Notice: By submitting your application, you acknowledge that Jobgether will process your personal data to evaluate your candidacy and share relevant information with the hiring employer. This processing is based on legitimate interest and pre-contractual measures under applicable data protection laws (including GDPR). You may exercise your rights (access, rectification, erasure, objection) at any time.     #LI-CL1