Remote Aerospace Propulsion Engineer

Placements24; Rustenburg; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,700,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Remote work

Health insurance

Retirement plan

Paid time off

Professional development

Home office setup allowance

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly experienced Aerospace Propulsion Engineer for a fully remote position. You will lead conceptualization, design, and analysis of propulsion systems, collaborating with a global team to push propulsion technology forward.

The candidate will apply thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and turbomachinery expertise, perform CFD analyses, and develop validated models for performance optimization. Remote work, strong communication, and independent initiative are essential.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering with propulsion specialization.
• Minimum 7 years of progressive experience in propulsion system design and analysis.
• Strong knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, combustion, and turbomachinery.
• Proficiency with propulsion design and simulation software (ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL, NPSS, RPA).
• Experience with CFD analysis and validation against experimental data.
• Ability to work independently and thrive in a remote team environment.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
• Experience collaborating with remote colleagues using digital PM tools.
• Familiarity with aerospace materials and manufacturing processes.

Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and analyze advanced propulsion systems (jet, rocket, electric).
• Perform detailed performance simulations and thermodynamic analyses.
• Collaborate remotely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure integrated propulsion design.
• Develop and validate mathematical models for propulsion components and overall performance.
• Conduct trade studies to optimize thrust, efficiency, weight, and cost.
• Prepare specifications, reports, and presentations for design reviews and project documentation.
• Stay current with cutting-edge propulsion research and technologies.
• Support testing and validation of propulsion components and prototypes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design challenges in a remote setting.
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards, safety and environmental requirements.

Skills

Propulsion design

Thermodynamics

Fluid dynamics

CFD

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

COMSOL

NPSS

RPA

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a pioneering force in advanced aerospace technology, is actively seeking a talented and experienced Aerospace Propulsion Engineer to join their fully remote engineering team. This role is critical for the conceptualization, design, and analysis of next-generation propulsion systems. Working remotely, you will contribute to groundbreaking projects that will define the future of flight, from commercial aviation advancements to space exploration initiatives. The ideal candidate is a self-motivated individual with a deep understanding of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and propulsion system principles, who excels in a virtual collaborative environment. We are looking for an innovator capable of tackling complex engineering challenges and driving propulsion system performance to new heights. This is a unique chance to make a substantial impact on the aerospace industry from the comfort of your own location, working alongside a team of world-class engineers dedicated to pushing the boundaries of what's possible.

Key Responsibilities

• Conceptualize, design, and analyze advanced aerospace propulsion systems, including jet engines, rocket engines, and electric propulsion.
• Perform detailed performance simulations and thermodynamic analysis using advanced modeling software.
• Collaborate remotely with multidisciplinary teams (aerodynamics, structures, controls, materials) to ensure integrated propulsion system design.
• Develop and validate mathematical models for propulsion system components and overall performance.
• Conduct trade studies and optimize designs for thrust, efficiency, weight, and cost.
• Prepare technical specifications, reports, and presentations for design reviews and project documentation.
• Stay current with cutting-edge research and emerging technologies in aerospace propulsion.
• Support testing and experimental validation efforts for propulsion system components and prototypes.
• Troubleshoot and resolve design challenges and performance issues in a remote setting.
• Ensure designs comply with industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field with a specialization in propulsion.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in aerospace propulsion system design and analysis.
• Strong theoretical and practical knowledge of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, combustion, and turbomachinery.
• Proficiency in propulsion design and simulation software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, COMSOL, NPSS, RPA).
• Experience with CFD analysis and experimental data validation.
• Demonstrated ability to work independently, manage time effectively, and thrive in a remote team environment.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical-thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information clearly.
• Experience collaborating effectively with remote colleagues using digital communication and project management tools.
• Familiarity with aerospace materials and manufacturing processes related to propulsion systems.

Benefits

• Highly competitive compensation package with potential for performance bonuses.
• Fully remote work arrangement offering maximum flexibility and work-life balance.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Generous retirement savings plan with employer match.
• Significant paid time off and paid holidays.
• Professional development opportunities, including access to online courses, conferences, and advanced training.
• Opportunity to work on groundbreaking projects at the forefront of aerospace innovation.
• Supportive virtual team environment and collaborative culture.
• Home office setup allowance.