Aircraft Propulsion Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund benefits

Professional development opportunities

Relocation assistance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking an experienced Aircraft Propulsion Engineer to join its client in Rustenburg, North West. The role focuses on design, development, testing, and support of advanced aircraft engine systems, ensuring performance, reliability, and aviation safety.

Candidates should have a strong background in propulsion, thermodynamics, and turbomachinery, with hands-on engine testing experience and familiarity with FAA/EASA regulations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with propulsion specialization.
• Minimum 6 years of aircraft engine design, development, or performance analysis.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, combustion, and turbomachinery.
• Experience with engine testing procedures and data acquisition systems.
• Familiarity with FAA and EASA engine certification requirements.

Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and validate engine components and systems using simulation tools.
• Conduct engine performance testing and recommend design modifications.
• Troubleshoot technical issues related to engine performance and durability at the Rustenburg facility.
• Collaborate with aerodynamics, materials, and manufacturing teams to integrate propulsion systems.
• Develop and maintain design specs, test reports, and maintenance procedures.
• Ensure compliance with aviation regulations and customer requirements.
• Support introduction of new engine technologies into production.
• Investigate engine failures and implement corrective actions.
• Provide guidance to junior engineers and technicians in propulsion development.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Fluid dynamics

Propulsion systems

ANSYS

CATIA

SolidWorks

Data acquisition

Engine testing

Analytical thinking

Team collaboration

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering with propulsion specialization

Tools

ANSYS

CATIA

SolidWorks

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading force in the aviation manufacturing and maintenance sector, is looking for a dedicated and experienced Aircraft Propulsion Engineer to join their team in Rustenburg, North West. This is a critical on-site role focused on the design, development, testing, and support of advanced aircraft engine systems. The engineer will play a pivotal part in ensuring the performance, reliability, and safety of our client's propulsion solutions. The role requires a deep understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and mechanical engineering principles applied to jet and turboprop engines. Based in Rustenburg, the engineer will work closely with manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance teams to drive innovation and excellence in aviation propulsion technology. We seek a candidate with a strong technical background and a commitment to achieving superior engineering outcomes within a collaborative environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, analyze, and validate aircraft engine components and systems using advanced simulation and modeling tools.
• Conduct performance testing of engines and components, analyzing results and recommending design modifications.
• Troubleshoot and resolve technical issues related to engine performance, efficiency, and durability in the Rustenburg facility.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including aerodynamics, materials science, and manufacturing, to integrate propulsion systems seamlessly.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and maintenance procedures.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations, industry standards, and customer requirements.
• Support the introduction of new engine technologies and upgrades into production.
• Investigate engine failures or performance anomalies, identifying root causes and implementing corrective actions.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to junior engineers and technicians involved in propulsion development and testing.
• Contribute to the strategic planning and roadmap for future propulsion system development within the North West region.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline with a specialization in propulsion systems.
• A minimum of 6 years of experience in aircraft engine design, development, or performance analysis.
• Strong theoretical knowledge and practical experience in thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, combustion, and turbomachinery.
• Proficiency with engineering software such as ANSYS, CATIA, SolidWorks, or equivalent for analysis and design.
• Experience with engine testing procedures and data acquisition systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong understanding of aviation regulations (e.g., FAA, EASA) pertaining to engine certification and airworthiness.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with the ability to present complex technical information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects concurrently in a fast-paced Rustenburg environment.
• Willingness to work on-site full-time in Rustenburg, North West, ZA.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package commensurate with experience, comprehensive medical aid and retirement fund benefits, and performance-based bonuses. There are significant opportunities for professional development, including advanced training, participation in industry conferences, and career advancement within the organization. The role provides exposure to cutting-edge aviation technology and the chance to work on impactful projects. Our client fosters a strong safety culture and a collaborative team environment. Employees benefit from a structured work environment in Rustenburg with access to state-of-the-art facilities and equipment. Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates moving to Rustenburg.