Senior Engine Performance Research Engineer

GKN Aerospace; Trollhättans kommun; On-site; SEK 650,000 - 850,000; Full time

Job summary

GKN Aerospace is seeking a Senior Engine Performance Research Engineer in Sweden. This role involves performance analysis and concept development for aero engines and propulsion systems. You will collaborate closely with various engineering disciplines while taking responsibility for complex technical tasks and guiding analysis approaches.

The ideal candidate holds an MSc or PhD in Aerospace Engineering and possesses strong knowledge of thermodynamics and gas turbines. The position offers opportunities to lead in technology development and contribute significantly to the future of aviation.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, aerodynamics, gas turbines, and propulsion systems.
• Proven experience in performance analysis and simulation.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.

Responsibilities

• Conduct performance analysis of aero engines in service and future concepts.
• Develop integrated aero engine systems and demonstrators.
• Document and present technical results internally and externally.

Skills

Performance analysis

Strong analytical skills

Communication skills in Swedish and English

Multidisciplinary teamwork

Problem-solving

Education

MSc or PhD in Aerospace Engineering

Tools

Gas turbine simulation tools (e.g. NPSS, Gasturb)

Programming skills (Python, MATLAB, C++)

Job description

Summary

We are now looking for a Senior Engine Performance Research Engineer to join our Future Concepts department within the Global Technology Center (GTC). Future Concepts focuses on developing and analysing next‑generation aero engine technologies and propulsion concepts, supporting strategic decisions and technology development through performance analysis, conceptual design, and multidisciplinary engineering.

About the role

In this role you will work on performance analysis and concept development of aero engines and propulsion systems. You will contribute to both current engines and future concepts, supporting activities ranging from early concept studies to more detailed analysis. The work is carried out in close collaboration with other engineering disciplines and includes both internal development work and participation in research collaborations. You are expected to take responsibility for technically complex tasks and guide analysis approaches and engineering decisions, while developing a broad technical understanding of aero engines and sustainable aviation technologies.

Responsibilities and contributions

• Performance analysis of aero engines in service and future concepts.
• Engine and aircraft concept studies, including mission analysis, configuration, and sizing.
• Component and system‑level trade studies.
• Collaboration with disciplines such as aerodynamics, turbomachinery, mechanical design, thermal analysis, and controls.
• Development of integrated aero engine systems and demonstrators, from concept to implementation and post‑test analysis, focusing on engine function and performance.
• Development of analysis methods and tools.
• Documentation and presentation of technical results internally and externally.
• Participation in research and technology development projects with partners.
• Responsibility for complex analyses and studies, ensuring quality and technical robustness.
• Contribution to defining analysis approaches, methods, and best practices within the team.
• Guidance and support to colleagues on technical topics.
• Representation of the team in technical discussions with internal and external stakeholders.
• Identification of technology gaps and new opportunities for technology development.

Qualifications

• MSc or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Physics, or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, aerodynamics, gas turbines, and propulsion systems.
• Proven experience in performance analysis, simulation and conceptual design from the aerospace industry or relevant academic research.
• Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• Good communication skills in Swedish and English, both written and spoken.

Meritorious

• Experience with gas turbine simulation tools (e.g. NPSS, Gasturb, Proosis).
• Programming skills (e.g. Python, MATLAB, C++ or similar).
• Understanding of aircraft performance or propulsion integration.
• Experience in Model‑Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), including requirement management, system architecture modelling, functional decomposition, and development of logical and physical architectures.

Personal Attributes

• Strong interest in aerospace and propulsion technologies.
• Curious and motivated by complex technical challenges.
• Comfortable taking responsibility and driving work forward independently.
• Shares knowledge and mentors junior engineers.
• Structured and analytical approach to problem solving.
• Enjoys working collaboratively across disciplines.
• Communicates clearly and effectively.
• Shows initiative and contributes to a positive and innovative team environment.