Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer (Remote)

Placements24; Stellenbosch; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 2,400,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Fully remote work

Health and retirement benefits

Professional development & training

Global collaboration

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer to join a fully remote engineering team. The role focuses on design, analysis, testing, and integration of advanced propulsion technologies for next‑generation aircraft engines.

You will lead critical projects, applying thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science to improve engine performance, efficiency, and reliability in a distributed setup with a global collaboration network.

Qualifications

• Master's or PhD in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with a thermodynamics/fluids focus.
• 10+ years in aerospace propulsion design, analysis and development.
• Strong understanding of gas turbine engine principles and performance analysis.
• Experience with CFD/FEA tools and engine testing.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, development, and analysis of propulsion systems including gas turbines.
• Perform detailed thermodynamic and fluid dynamics analyses with CFD/FEA tools.
• Oversee engine testing and validate performance; analyze data for improvements.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and materials teams to ensure manufacturability and advanced materials use.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior propulsion engineers.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Fluid dynamics

Analytical thinking

Leadership

Remote collaboration

Education

Master's or PhD in Mechanical/Aerospace Engineering

Tools

ANSYS Fluent

Star-CCM+

FEA tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a forward-thinking aerospace manufacturer, is seeking an exceptional Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer to join their fully remote engineering team. This role is crucial for the advancement of our next-generation aircraft engines, focusing on design, analysis, testing, and integration of advanced propulsion technologies. You will lead critical projects, contributing your expertise in thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and materials science to enhance engine performance, efficiency, and reliability. This position requires a visionary engineer with a proven ability to innovate and solve complex challenges in a distributed team environment. You will collaborate with a global network of experts, driving the development of state-of-the-art propulsion systems that set new industry benchmarks. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of engine cycles, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of aerospace engineering. This remote role offers the unique advantage of contributing to significant technological advancements from anywhere, while being integral to projects impacting future aviation. We are looking for someone to champion innovation and drive excellence in propulsion technology.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development, and analysis of advanced aircraft propulsion systems, including gas turbine engines and novel propulsion concepts.
• Perform detailed thermodynamic and fluid dynamic analyses using advanced simulation tools (e.g., CFD, FEA).
• Oversee engine testing and performance validation, analyzing test data to identify areas for improvement.
• Collaborate with manufacturing and materials specialists to ensure designs are manufacturable and utilize cutting-edge materials.
• Provide technical leadership and mentorship to junior engineers on propulsion-related projects.
• Ensure all designs and analyses comply with stringent aerospace industry standards and regulations.
• Contribute to research and development initiatives, exploring new technologies to enhance propulsion efficiency and sustainability.
• Manage project timelines and deliverables, ensuring successful completion of engineering tasks in a remote setting.

Requirements

• Master's or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with a specialization in thermodynamics or fluid mechanics.
• 10+ years of experience in aerospace propulsion systems design, analysis, and development.
• Demonstrated expertise in gas turbine engine design principles and performance analysis.
• Proficiency in CFD software (e.g., ANSYS Fluent, Star-CCM+) and FEA tools.
• Strong understanding of materials science as it applies to high-temperature engine components.
• Experience with engine testing, data acquisition, and analysis.
• Excellent problem-solving, analytical, and communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead projects and collaborate effectively within a remote team.
• Familiarity with aerospace certification requirements for propulsion systems.

Benefits

This is a fully remote position offering exceptional flexibility and the opportunity to work on groundbreaking propulsion technology from anywhere. Our client provides a highly competitive compensation package, comprehensive health and retirement benefits, and extensive opportunities for professional development. You'll be part of an elite team shaping the future of flight. The benefits package includes health, dental, and vision insurance, life insurance, and a robust retirement savings plan. This role supports projects related to advancements that will be utilized globally, including those originating from the development hub near Stellenbosch, Western Cape.