Propulsion System Engineer – Internal Combustion Engine (ICE)

LODD Autonomous; Abu Dhabi Emirate; On-site; AED 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

LODD Autonomous in the United Arab Emirates seeks a senior engineer to lead the design and integration of internal combustion engine systems into hybrid eVTOL UAV architecture. You will ensure engine, fuel, cooling, exhaust, and mechanical interfaces integrate with the airframe and powertrain.

The role requires 8+ years in aircraft propulsion, hands-on testing, and familiarity with ARP4754/ARP4761, regulatory standards such as CS UAS/VTOL, and certification activities.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and integration of internal combustion engine systems into hybrid eVTOL UAV architecture.
• Ensure proper integration of engine, fuel system, cooling, exhaust, and mechanical interfaces with the airframe and hybrid powertrain.
• Optimize engine performance for efficiency, reliability, weight, and operational envelope.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (aerodynamics, structures, avionics, flight controls).
• Apply system engineering principles in accordance with ARP4754.
• Develop system requirements, architectures, and verification/validation strategies.
• Support safety assessments in line with ARP4761 (FHA, FTA, FMEA).
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations such as CS UAS, SC VTOL, CS 23, CS E, CS P.
• Plan and execute testing programs to validate the performance and safety of the eVTOL powertrain.
• Analyze test data and iterate on designs to address any identified issues.
• Support certification activities, including documentation and authority interaction.

Job description

• Lead the design and integration of internal combustion engine systems into hybrid eVTOL UAV architecture.
• Ensure proper integration of engine, fuel system, cooling, exhaust, and mechanical interfaces with the airframe and hybrid powertrain.
• Optimize engine performance for efficiency, reliability, weight, and operational envelope.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams (aerodynamics, structures, avionics, flight controls).
• Apply system engineering principles in accordance with ARP4754.
• Develop system requirements, architectures, and verification/validation strategies.
• Support safety assessments in line with ARP4761 (FHA, FTA, FMEA).
• Ensure compliance with applicable regulations such as CS UAS, SC VTOL, CS 23, CS E, CS P.
• Plan and execute testing programs to validate the performance and safety of the eVTOL powertrain.
• Analyze test data and iterate on designs to address any identified issues.
• Support certification activities, including documentation and authority interaction.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• Minimum 8+ years of relevant experience in aircraft propulsion or engine integration.
• Proven experience in certified aerospace projects and regulatory compliance.
• Strong knowledge of piston/internal combustion engines and fuel systems.
• Proficiency in simulation and modelling tools for powertrain analysis.
• Solid understanding of system engineering processes (ARP4754) and safety analysis (ARP4761).
• Hands-on experience in testing, integration, and troubleshooting.
• Familiarity with hybrid propulsion systems is a strong plus.