Senior Aerospace Propulsion Engineer

Placements24; Soweto; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Comprehensive benefits

Professional growth

International assignments

Job summary

Placements24 in Soweto, Gauteng, is seeking a Senior Aerospace Propulsion Engineer to lead the design, analysis, development, and testing of jet engine and rocket propulsion systems.

You will perform advanced CFD/FEA simulations with ANSYS and COMSOL, analyze test data, guide material selections for high-temperature environments, and mentor junior engineers while ensuring compliance with aerospace standards and safety requirements.

Qualifications

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with propulsion specialization.
• 8+ years of progressive experience in aerospace propulsion system design and development.
• Expertise in jet engine cycles, combustion processes, and turbomachinery.
• Proficiency with ANSYS and COMSOL for CFD/FEA/thermal analysis.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and materials science.
• Experience with experimental testing of propulsion systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong technical communication and report-writing abilities.
• Ability to lead projects and work collaboratively in a team.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize propulsion systems (jet engines, turbofans, rocket engines).
• Conduct detailed thermodynamic and fluid dynamic analyses.
• Perform CFD/FEA simulations to predict performance and structural integrity.
• Oversee manufacturing, assembly, and testing of propulsion prototypes.
• Analyze test data to evaluate performance and drive design improvements.
• Collaborate with materials scientists on high-temperature materials.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership.

Skills

Propulsion system design

Jet engine cycles

Combustion processes

Turbomachinery

CFD/FEA analysis

Thermodynamics

Experimental testing

Technical leadership

Education

Master's/PhD in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering (propulsion)

Tools

ANSYS

COMSOL

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading manufacturer of advanced aerospace components, is seeking a highly skilled Senior Aerospace Propulsion Engineer to join their research and development team in Soweto, Gauteng . This pivotal role will focus on the design, analysis, development, and testing of innovative jet engine and rocket propulsion systems. The successful candidate will be instrumental in pushing the boundaries of propulsion technology, focusing on improving efficiency, thrust, reliability, and reducing emissions. You will work with state-of-the-art simulation tools, conduct rigorous performance testing, and collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of engineers and scientists. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced propulsion engineer to contribute to cutting-edge projects that will shape the future of air and space travel. A deep understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, combustion, and materials science is essential.

Key Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize aerospace propulsion systems, including jet engines, turbofans, and rocket engines.
• Conduct detailed thermodynamic and fluid dynamic analyses of propulsion components and systems.
• Perform complex simulations using CFD and FEA tools to predict performance, thermal loads, and structural integrity.
• Oversee the manufacturing, assembly, and testing of propulsion system prototypes.
• Analyze test data to evaluate system performance, identify issues, and drive design improvements.
• Collaborate with materials scientists to select and apply appropriate materials for high-temperature and high-pressure environments.
• Ensure compliance with aerospace industry standards, safety regulations, and environmental requirements.
• Contribute to the development of new propulsion concepts and technologies.
• Mentor junior engineers and provide technical leadership within the propulsion engineering team.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in propulsion.
• A minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in aerospace propulsion system design and development.
• Proven expertise in jet engine cycles, combustion processes, and turbomachinery.
• Proficiency with advanced simulation software (e.g., ANSYS, COMSOL) for CFD, FEA, and thermal analysis.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, heat transfer, and materials science.
• Experience with experimental testing of propulsion systems.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Strong technical communication and report-writing abilities.
• Ability to lead projects and work effectively in a collaborative team environment.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including extensive medical coverage, retirement plans, and performance bonuses. They provide significant opportunities for professional growth, including advanced training, attendance at key industry conferences, and potential for international assignments. This role is based in Soweto, Gauteng , offering a unique cultural experience and access to growing infrastructure. Join a company that is at the forefront of aerospace innovation and contribute to the next generation of flight.