Lead Propulsion Systems Engineer - Aerospace Applications

Placements24; Cape Town; Hybrid; ZAR 2,991,000 - 4,653,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote-first

Competitive salary

Health benefits

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Lead Propulsion Systems Engineer for a fully remote role. You will lead design, analysis, testing, and integration of advanced rocket and jet propulsion systems, collaborating with a global team to push aerospace innovation.

The ideal candidate holds a Master’s or PhD in aerospace or mechanical engineering, 10+ years in propulsion, and proven leadership. Strong CFD/FEA and materials knowledge are essential, as are exceptional communication skills for

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.
• 10+ years of experience in propulsion system design, development, and testing.
• Proven leadership in engineering teams and projects.
• Deep expertise in rocket propulsion, gas turbines, or other advanced propulsion concepts.
• Proficiency in CFD, FEA, and thermal analysis software.

Responsibilities

• Lead conceptualization and detailed design of complex aerospace propulsion systems, including solid, liquid, and hybrid rocket engines, as well as advanced jet propulsion concepts.
• Oversee and conduct in-depth thermodynamic, fluid dynamic, and combustion analyses using sophisticated simulation tools.
• Manage the full lifecycle of propulsion system development, from initial design and prototyping through to rigorous testing, validation, and operational deployment.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans for propulsion system components and integrated systems, ensuring safety and performance integrity.
• Collaborate with external partners and internal teams on system integration, ensuring seamless compatibility with airframes and other aircraft/spacecraft subsystems.
• Mentor and guide a team of talented propulsion engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.
• Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews, and project status updates to senior management and stakeholders.
• Ensure all designs and processes comply with stringent aerospace industry regulations and safety standards.

Skills

Leadership

Propulsion design

CFD analysis

Python

MATLAB

FEA

Systems integration

Education

Master's/PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CFD software

FEA software

Thermal analysis tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is at the forefront of aerospace innovation and is seeking a highly experienced Lead Propulsion Systems Engineer to spearhead the development of next-generation propulsion technologies. This is a fully remote position, allowing you to contribute your expertise from anywhere in the world, while collaborating with a world-class team. You will play a pivotal role in the design, analysis, testing, and integration of advanced rocket and jet engine systems. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical knowledge in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, combustion, and materials science, coupled with strong leadership capabilities and a passion for pushing the boundaries of aerospace engineering. This role demands a proactive, results-oriented individual ready to tackle complex challenges and drive critical projects to successful completion in a remote-first setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the conceptualization and detailed design of complex aerospace propulsion systems, including solid, liquid, and hybrid rocket engines, as well as advanced jet propulsion concepts.
• Oversee and conduct in-depth thermodynamic, fluid dynamic, and combustion analyses using sophisticated simulation tools.
• Manage the full lifecycle of propulsion system development, from initial design and prototyping through to rigorous testing, validation, and operational deployment.
• Develop and execute comprehensive test plans for propulsion system components and integrated systems, ensuring safety and performance integrity.
• Collaborate with external partners and internal teams on system integration, ensuring seamless compatibility with airframes and other aircraft/spacecraft subsystems.
• Mentor and guide a team of talented propulsion engineers, fostering a culture of technical excellence and innovation.
• Prepare and present technical reports, design reviews, and project status updates to senior management and stakeholders.
• Ensure all designs and processes comply with stringent aerospace industry regulations and safety standards.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in aerospace propulsion system design, development, and testing.
• Proven leadership experience managing engineering teams and projects.
• Deep expertise in rocket propulsion (chemical and electric), gas turbines, or other advanced propulsion concepts.
• Strong proficiency in CFD, FEA, and thermal analysis software relevant to propulsion systems.
• Demonstrated experience in system integration, testing, and validation of complex aerospace hardware.
• Excellent understanding of materials science, manufacturing processes, and quality control in the aerospace industry.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and a systematic approach to technical challenges.
• Outstanding communication, collaboration, and presentation skills, essential for a remote team environment.
• Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or similar scripting languages for data analysis and automation.

Benefits

This fully remote role offers unparalleled flexibility, allowing you to work from your preferred location while making a significant impact. Our client provides a highly competitive salary, comprehensive health and wellness benefits, and a generous retirement plan. Opportunities for professional growth through advanced training, conferences, and leadership development are abundant. You will be part of a pioneering company shaping the future of aerospace, working on groundbreaking projects with a talented and dedicated global team. Access to cutting-edge simulation tools and resources is standard. The company culture emphasizes innovation, collaboration, and work-life balance, even in a remote setting.