Transient Performance & Operability Lead Engineer

Rolls-Royce plc; Indianapolis (IN); Hybrid; USD 114,000 - 186,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus plan

Health insurance

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Tuition reimbursement

Parental leave

Job summary

Rolls-Royce plc seeks a Transient Performance & Operability Lead Engineer in Indianapolis, IN, with a hybrid work pattern (3 days onsite). The role focuses on propulsion cycle analysis, engine performance modeling with NPSS, and leading testing programs to ensure safe, efficient operation.

A Bachelor’s or higher in engineering-related fields with substantial thermodynamics and gas dynamics experience is required.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics with 5+ years’ experience in thermodynamics, gas dynamics, fluid mechanics and/or engine design.
• Master's degree with 3+ years’ experience in thermodynamics, gas dynamics, fluid mechanics and/or engine design OR; A PhD in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics
• US citizenship is required for this role

Responsibilities

• Perform propulsion cycle analysis and whole engine performance predictions using computer simulations to satisfy system requirements, with expertise in both steady‑state and transient performance.
• Develop and maintain thermodynamic cycle models using NPSS.
• Lead propulsion systems performance testing, publish technical reports, and deliver technical presentations of engineering analysis and results.
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams to ensure optimized propulsion system solutions.
• Define and implement best practices in performance across the organization.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Gas dynamics

Fluid mechanics

Engine design

NPSS

Mentoring

Education

Master's degree in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics

PhD in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics

Tools

NPSS

Job description

Job Description

Job Title: Transient Performance & Operability Lead Engineer

Working Pattern: Full time

Working location: Indianapolis, IN/Hybrid (3 days week onsite avg.)

Relocation assistance is available for this position as applicable.

Why Rolls-Royce?

At Rolls-Royce we are proud to be a business that has truly helped to shape the modern world and are committed to always be a force for progress; powering, protecting and connecting people everywhere. By joining Rolls‑Royce, you’ll have the opportunity to create world‑class power and propulsion solutions, pushing your problem‑solving and ingenuity, to deliver real impact that puts safety first. You’ll be given responsibility and the opportunity to grow in our high-performance culture. This is Infinite Potential. And it’s your chance to really shine and contribute to one of the world’s most recognized brands and a beacon for engineering excellence.

Position Summary

Turning fuel into power most efficiently within the constraints of safe operation is the aim of our System Performance Engineers. Your innovative solutions in computer modeling advanced propulsion cycles, predicting engine performance and analyzing test data for internal and external customers. As a Performance Engineer, you will join a highly motivated team dedicated to exploring new technologies and advanced modeling methods to predict product behavior and understand system-level operation. Your work will span from early concept design through development testing, entry into service, and beyond. The models you develop will play a critical role in resolving system-level issues and ensuring optimal propulsion system operation in demanding applications and environments.

What you will be doing

Perform propulsion cycle analysis and whole engine performance predictions using computer simulations to satisfy system requirements, with expertise in both steady‑state and transient performance. Develop and maintain thermodynamic cycle models using Numerical Propulsion System Simulation (NPSS). Train and mentor others in thermodynamics, test analysis, and engine performance modeling. Demonstrate expert understanding of system-level issues related to propulsion system design, performance, operability, and engine operation. Lead propulsion systems performance testing, publish technical reports, and deliver technical presentations of engineering analysis and results. Apply process and technical knowledge to ensure engineering solutions meet customer requirements and comply with engineering processes. Influence internal and external stakeholders to develop effective solutions. Demonstrate expertise in at least one area of engine product performance, such as steady-state performance, operability, test, or methods. Define and implement best practices in performance across the organization. Contribute to engine certification processes, including defining plans to fulfill requirements for engine performance. Maintain knowledge of industry practices and standards. Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and demonstrate a strong understanding of related disciplines, including Controls, Thermals, Air Systems, Lifing, and Design, to ensure integrated and optimized propulsion system solutions. Solve complex and unique performance challenges to drive product improvement.

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor`s degree in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics with 5+ years’ experience in thermodynamics, gas dynamics, fluid mechanics and/or engine design
• A Master`s degree in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics with 3+ years’ experience in thermodynamics, gas dynamics, fluid mechanics and/or engine design OR; A PhD in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics
• In order to be considered for this role, you must be a US citizen

Preferred Requirements

• Demonstrated technical leadership to delivery in complex project with ambiguity
• Industry Leading Expertise in the performance-related support of the design and/or development of gas turbines
• Experience in simulation/modeling of gas turbine cycles, hybrid electric systems, cycle analysis, engine operability, sizing, and/or preliminary design analysis.
• Engine cycle design to meet aircraft manufacturers or government objectives including current and future technologies
• NPSS Expertise in multiple thermodynamic cycle models
• Experience with transient performance, including stability margin accounting and operability test planning and analysis for multiple engine programs
• Background planning, executing, and analyzing engine tests
• Ability to define and detail functional data for design and follow design iteration processes
• Demonstrates leadership in performance for the function and product programs
• Builds and maintains strong customer relationships
• Creative thinker and pragmatic problem solver
• Strong focus on driving compliance and continuous improvement
• Ability to overcome challenges and deliver results
• Comfortable with ambiguity; able to define and implement plans to achieve business objectives without detailed instruction
• Effective communicator with a positive outlook when faced with challenges
• Committed to lifelong learning for self and the team

Our vision

To ensure that the quality and dynamism that shaped our history continues into our future. It’s a bold pursuit, and we never stop striving to go further, faster, and better. We lead progress, creating the technologies that move us forward. If you’re driven to grow, to learn, and to make a lasting difference, this is where you belong.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Rolls-Royce is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristics. We are committed to providing a respectful and non-discriminatory workplace where individuality is valued and everyone can thrive.

Closing Date

October 2, 2026

Pay Range

$114,400 - $185,900-Annually

Location

Indianapolis, IN

Benefits

• base pay and a discretionary bonus plan
• health, dental, vision, disability, life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance
• flexible spending account
• health savings account
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with a company match
• Employee Assistance Program
• Paid Time Off
• certain paid holidays
• paid parental and family care leave
• tuition reimbursement
• a long-term incentive plan

Rolls-Royce pioneers cutting-edge technologies that deliver the cleanest, safest and most competitive solutions to our planet’s vital power needs.