Principal Propulsion Engineer, Air Vehicles (Turbine Engine Integration)

The Principal Propulsion Engineer will lead the selection, architecture, and integration of aircraft engines and engine components on unmanned air vehicles. This role involves designing and testing prototype components, planning and executing propulsion system tests, and coordinating with engine vendors. The engineer will also support critical hardware demonstrations and mentor mid-to-senior level engineers, serving as a technical authority on major propulsion programs.

Responsibilities

• Serve as a lead or key contributor in the selection, architecting, and integration of aircraft engines, engine components, and engine controls on unmanned air vehicles (UAVs).
• Design, fabricate, and test prototype components and control systems.
• Plan, instrument, and execute tests of aircraft propulsion systems.
• Coordinate with engine vendors, develop strategic partnerships, and manage development projects.
• Lead or support critical hardware demonstrations with customers as needed.
• Critical member of team supporting CAD design for inlet / exhaust shaping, surfaces and structures.
• Travel to test sites as needed.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering.
• 15+ years of propulsion engineering experience on air vehicles (manned or unmanned).
• Professional experience with jet engines in the 250-20,000 lbf thrust class.
• Mastery of engine cycle decks and thermodynamic modeling; ability to influence engine OEM design decisions to match vehicle requirements.
• Served as the Chief Engineer or ultimate technical authority on a major propulsion program, defining technology roadmaps and architectural baselines.
• Experience identifying and selecting strategic propulsion suppliers, managing critical OEM relationships, and establishing qualified supply chains.
• Experience defining comprehensive propulsion test programs (including static / ground off wing testing, qualification, acceptance, flight-test readiness) and troubleshooting system level anomalies.
• Experience advising executive leadership on technical risks, representing the company to key customers / government agencies, and mentoring mid-to-senior level engineers.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain an active U.S. Secret security clearance.

Nice to have

• Experience in NX / Teamcenter, Python, MATLAB, IADs.
• Hands-on experience with jet engine testing including test practices, instrumentation, and data processing.
• Previous work experience at a jet engine OEM or supplier, with a deep understanding of engine performance trade-offs.
• Knowledge and experience working with FADEC, Engine Management Systems (EMS), or equivalent aircraft engine control systems.
• Experience procuring parts and working in a machine shop. Working knowledge of machine safety and shop safety protocols.
• Active U.S. Top Secret security clearance.

Benefits

• The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Anduril's total compensation package. Additionally, Anduril offers top-tier benefits for full-time employees, including:
• At Anduril, we invest in our people. Our comprehensive, competitive benefits package (available at little to no cost to employees) ensures you’re supported in health, recovery, and whatever comes next. For more information, Explore Our Benefits.