Senior Propulsion Development Engineer
ABOUT US:
Astro Mechanica is a fast-growing startup on a mission to reinvent supersonic aircraft. We’re an engineering collective innovating on engine, airframe, and systems that industry hasn’t in over 50 years. With the world’s first turboelectric adaptive jet engine — efficient at every speed — we’re ready to revolutionize flight from national security to commercial aviation.
WHO WE ARE:
We're a team of hardcore engineers who live and breathe aerospace. We’re generalists who each have subject matter expertise and operate in a flat organizational structure. We move fast and build world-changing technology in a pragmatic and competent workplace culture.
WHO YOU ARE:
Astro Mechanica is looking for a Senior Propulsion Development Engineer to join our growing team. The ideal candidate is someone who has a deep-seated understanding of complex system dynamics, and can take full ownership of hardware testing from concept to production. Your work at Astro Mechanica will have a direct impact on the configuration and performance of the turboelectric adaptive jet engine.
In this role, your mission will be to shepherd our innovative jet engine and subsystems hardware from early prototype through flight qualification, vehicle integration, and aircraft flight. You will have firsthand responsibility that every new design is rigorously tested to ensure quality and performance metrics are met prior to aircraft integration before leaving the ground. You embody the test-like-you-fly philosophy.
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
Create test plans, objectives, methodologies, and establish operational ranges
Define instrumentation placement with understanding of measurement limitations
Analyze data for characterization hardware behavior and performance
Diagnose hardware/software problems efficiently and perform corrective actions
Hold data reviews communicating test results while highlighting anomalies
Maintain data processing scripts, develop automation to increase test throughput and reliability
Continually improve facility capabilities to increase test throughput and reliability
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:
5+ years hands-on experience with fluidic and propulsion systems, test operations
Experience with hazardous environments (flammables, high voltage, pressurized systems) and safety mitigations
Knowledge of fluid systems hardware and instrumentation (pressure, temperature, load cells, relays, solenoids, regulators, pneumatics)
Familiarity with data acquisition and control systems, PLC hardware, communication protocol, data structures, and software interfaces
Proficiency with PLC and data processing software (Python, MATLAB, LabVIEW)
Takes initiative for continuous improvement (not just completing assigned tasks)
Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment
Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality in all work
PERKS & BENEFITS:
Full healthcare, vision, and dental benefits
Competitive pay and transparent stock option plan
Flexible work environment
Self-managed and flexible time-off policy
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
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At Astro Mechanica, we’re on an exciting journey to change the face of aviation, and as a Senior Propulsion Development Engineer, you’ll be at the forefront of this revolution! Located in the vibrant city of San Francisco, your expertise will be instrumental in developing our groundbreaking turboelectric adaptive jet engine. In this dynamic, fast-paced startup environment, you'll take full ownership of hardware testing—from initial concept phase through to production. Your responsibilities will encompass crafting detailed test plans and methodologies, analyzing data to assess performance, and maintaining a rigorous testing philosophy that ensures every design is flight-ready. We're looking for passionate engineers who thrive in collaborative settings and have a deep understanding of propulsion systems. Here, your work will directly impact the core of a transformative project that has the potential to redefine commercial and national aviation standards. We promote a culture of continuous improvement, where every team member is empowered to contribute to enhancing test efficiencies and data reliability. Plus, our self-managed work policy ensures you have the flexibility to balance your professional and personal life while establishing a rewarding career with us. If you believe that you possess the enthusiasm, innovation, and qualifications to push the boundaries of aerospace engineering, we can't wait to meet you at Astro Mechanica!
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