Propulsion Integration Mechanical Engineer

Fruition Group US; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 110,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Fruition Group US in Los Angeles is seeking a Mechanical Engineer to own propulsion integration for UAVs and aerospace platforms, coordinating with engine suppliers and airframe teams.

This hands-on role requires strong mechanical design intuition, GD&T knowledge, and experience with full integration, test, and certification support across cross-functional teams.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or related field).
• 5+ years in propulsion integration, powerplant systems, or aircraft mechanical design.
• Proficiency in CAD tools SolidWorks, NX, or CATIA with GD&T knowledge.

Responsibilities

• Lead mechanical design and integration of propulsion subsystems (mounts, ducts, fuel, electrical interfaces, vibration isolation)
• Serve as primary engineering POC for propulsion integration across internal teams and external partners
• Develop and maintain 3D CAD models, installation drawings, and integration assemblies
• Conduct trade studies (layout, mass properties, thermal management, maintainability)
• Partner with stress, thermal, and aero teams to ensure safe, efficient engine operation
• Support prototype builds and flight tests; resolve installation and integration issues
• Generate design documentation, test procedures, and certification support materials
• Identify technical risks and implement practical mitigation strategies

Skills

Structural design

Vibration analysis

Thermal management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or related field)

Tools

SolidWorks

NX

CATIA

Job description

Mechanical Engineer – Propulsion Integration (UAV / Aerospace)

We’re developing next-generation UAV aircraft and advanced command & control systems to enable coordinated autonomous operations at scale. Backed by a team with deep aerospace and defense experience, we are building purpose-designed aircraft for demanding mission environments.

The Role

Own the physical and functional integration of the propulsion system into the aircraft. You will work closely with engine suppliers, systems engineers, and airframe teams to ensure propulsion fit, performance, safety, and mission readiness. This is a hands-on, high-impact role requiring strong mechanical design intuition and systems thinking.

What You’ll Do

• Lead mechanical design and integration of propulsion subsystems (mounts, ducts, fuel, electrical interfaces, vibration isolation)
• Serve as primary engineering POC for propulsion integration across internal teams and external partners
• Develop and maintain 3D CAD models, installation drawings, and integration assemblies
• Conduct trade studies (layout, mass properties, thermal management, maintainability)
• Partner with stress, thermal, and aero teams to ensure safe, efficient engine operation
• Support prototype builds and flight tests; resolve installation and integration issues
• Generate design documentation, test procedures, and certification support materials
• Identify technical risks and implement practical mitigation strategies

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (or related field)
• 5+ years in propulsion integration, powerplant systems, or aircraft mechanical design
• Proficiency in SolidWorks, NX, or CATIA; strong GD&T knowledge
• Experience with structural design, vibration, and thermal environments
• Cross-functional experience with manufacturing, suppliers, and test teams
• Hands-on hardware integration or flight test experience

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with gas turbine, piston, or hybrid-electric propulsion systems
• Familiarity with fuel, oil, and cooling systems integration
• Engine mount design and vibration isolation expertise
• Background in UAVs, lightweight aircraft, or experimental platforms
• Thrives in a fast-paced, iterative engineering environment