Sr. Propulsion Engineer

Sr. Propulsion Engineer page is loaded## Sr. Propulsion Engineer locations:
Petaluma, CAtime type:
Full time posted on:
Posted Todayjob requisition :
6910
** Worker Type
** Regular
* * Job Description
** We are seeking a Sr. Propulsion Engineer to oversee the integration, validation, and lifecycle management of propulsion systems for our UAV platforms. This role requires a multi-disciplinary leader who can bridge mechanical, aerospace, and systems engineering to ensure engines (including heavy fuel and gas-powered systems) meet performance, weight, endurance, and environment requirements for Group 3 UAVs. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in propulsion system integration, vendor collaboration, and UAV development.
*
* Key Responsibilities:

*** Propulsion System Leadership  + Act as the technical authority for propulsion systems  + Define system requirements, responsible for engine integration and verification methods  + Collaborate with vendors to troubleshoot performance issues and drive design improvements.
* Cross-Functional Integration  + Work with aerodynamics, structural, and avionics teams to optimize engine placement, cooling, and vibration mitigation.  + Ensure propulsion systems align with UAV mission profiles (e.g., endurance, payload capacity, altitude, temperature, and other environmental factors).
* Testing & Validation  + Lead ground and flight testing campaigns to validate engine performance under operational conditions.  + Analyze data to refine system parameters and ensure compliance with military standards.
* Vendor & Customer Management  + Serve as the primary technical liaison between internal teams and propulsion system vendors.  + Review vendor designs, conduct risk assessments, and ensure deliverables meet project timelines.  + Support customer engagements to resolve requirements ambiguity and confusion.
* Lifecycle Support:  + Develop maintenance protocols and failure-mode analyses for propulsion systems.  + Support field operations teams in diagnosing and resolving engine-related issues.  + Develop and maintain strategic alignment of Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) operations.
** Qualifications**:
* Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field (Master’s preferred).
* 8+ years of systems engineering development experience
* 5+ years in propulsion system design, integration, and test, preferably with gas or heavy fuel engines.
* Knowledge of power and propulsion system and subsystem components such as fuel systems, emissions control, propulsion-airframe integration, and ground equipment.
* Proven experience managing vendor partnerships and cross-functional engineering teams.
* Strong project management abilities (Agile, SCRUM, or similar frameworks).
* Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
* Excellent communication skills for technical and non-technical stakeholders.
*
* Preferred Qualifications:

*** Background in UAV development, particularly Group 2/3 UAVs or similar mid-sized platforms.
* Experience with heavy fuel engines and maritime operations.
* Knowledge of DO-160, MIL-STD-461, or other aerospace environmental testing standards.
* Prior technical lead roles in UAV or defense/aerospace projects.
** Physical Demands
*** Ability to work in an office (Constant)
* Required to sit and stand for long periods; talk, hear, and use hands and fingers to operate a computer and telephone keyboard (Frequent)
** Clearance Level
** No Clearance The salary range for this role is:$136,807 - $194,040

Aero Vironment considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to, the location, the role and associated responsibilities, a candidate’s work experience, education/training, and key skills.
** ITAR Requirement:
*** This position requires access to information that is subject to compliance with the International Traffic Arms Regulations (“ITAR”) and/or the Export Administration Regulations (“EAR”). In order to comply with the requirements of the ITAR and/or the EAR, applicants must qualify as a U.S. person under the ITAR and the EAR, or a person to be approved for an…