Transient Performance & Operability Lead Engineer

Rolls-Royce; Indianapolis (IN); Hybrid; USD 114,400 - 185,900; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus

Employee discounts

Health benefits

Paid time off

Job summary

Rolls-Royce in Indianapolis, IN is seeking a Transient Performance & Operability Lead Engineer for a hybrid, full-time role. You will turn fuel into power through advanced propulsion-cycle modeling, predicting engine performance and analyzing test data for varied customers.

The work spans concept design through service, delivering optimized propulsion solutions in challenging environments. You will lead testing, publish results, and mentor others in thermodynamics and engine modeling while

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics.
• Master’s degree with 3+ years experience OR a PhD in Engineering, Physics or Mathematics.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain security clearance (US citizenship).

Responsibilities

• Perform propulsion cycle analysis and engine performance predictions using simulations.
• Develop thermodynamic cycle models using NPSS.
• Train and mentor others in thermodynamics, test analysis, and engine performance modeling.
• Lead propulsion systems performance testing and publish technical reports.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Controls, Thermals, Air Systems, Lifing and Design.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Gas dynamics

Fluid mechanics

Engine design

NPSS modeling

Leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Engineering/Physics/Mathematics

Master’s degree in Engineering/Physics/Mathematics

PhD in Engineering/Physics/Mathematics

Tools

NPSS

Engine testing

Simulation modeling

Job description

Job Title

Transient Performance & Operability Lead Engineer

Working Pattern

Full Time

Working location

Indianapolis, IN./Hybrid (3 days onsite)

Job Description

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.

Who we’re looking for

At Rolls-Royce we put safety first, do the right thing, keep it simple and make a difference. These principles form the behaviors that guide us and are an essential component of our assessment process. They are the fundamental qualities that we seek for all roles.

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
• Eligible to obtain and maintain security clearance (requires USA citizenship).

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 manufacturer 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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Rolls-Royce is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristics.

What we offer

We offer excellent development opportunities, a competitive salary, and exceptional benefits. These include bonus, employee support assistance and employee discounts.

Benefits

Rolls-Royce provides a comprehensive and competitive Total Rewards package that includes base pay and a discretionary bonus plan. Eligible employees may have the opportunity to enroll in other benefits, including health, dental, vision, disability, life and accidental death & dismemberment insurance; a flexible spending account; a health savings account; a 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; and a long-term incentive plan. The options available to an employee may vary depending on eligibility factors such as date of hire, employment type, and the applicability of collective bargaining agreements.

Global Grade/Level

Level C

Closing Date

July 24, 2026

Location

Indianapolis, IN

Pay Range

$114,400 - $185,900 annually