Turbine Engine Performance Specialist - Durban

Placements24; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Life insurance

Professional development opportunities

Paid annual leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly specialized Turbine Engine Performance Specialist for our Durban facility. You will optimize turbine engine performance, monitor health, and analyze flight data to drive reliability and cost efficiency.

The role requires deep knowledge of thermodynamics, modeling, and EHM systems, with collaboration across engineering and maintenance teams. A strong track record in aviation engine performance is essential, with a focus on safety and regulatory compliance.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience specifically in turbine engine performance analysis and diagnostics.
• Proven expertise in gas turbine engine thermodynamics, aerodynamics, and performance modeling.
• Proficiency with engine performance analysis software (e.g., specialized MRO software, MATLAB).
• Experience with flight data analysis and engine health monitoring (EHM) systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a demanding Durban operational setting.
• Knowledge of various engine types (e.g., CFM56, GE90, PW4000) is highly advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed performance analysis of turbine engines using flight data, test cell results, and diagnostic tools.
• Monitor engine parameters, identify trends, and diagnose performance deterioration or anomalies.
• Develop and implement strategies for optimizing engine performance, fuel efficiency, and operational life.
• Perform root cause analysis for performance-related issues and recommend appropriate maintenance or repair actions.
• Maintain and update engine performance databases and predictive models.
• Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and operational teams to implement performance enhancement initiatives.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings and recommendations to management and clients.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in turbine engine technology and performance monitoring techniques.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations and company quality standards.

Skills

Turbine engine performance analysis

Gas turbine thermodynamics

Flight data analysis

Engine health monitoring

Independent and team work

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

MATLAB

MRO software

Performance modeling tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading name in the aviation MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) sector , is seeking a highly specialized Turbine Engine Performance Specialist to join their esteemed technical division in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This critical role focuses on optimizing the performance, efficiency, and longevity of turbine engines through detailed analysis and application of advanced engineering principles. The successful candidate will be responsible for monitoring engine health, diagnosing performance degradation, and recommending corrective actions to ensure peak operational efficiency. This is a hands‑on role based at our client's advanced facility, requiring meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of thermodynamics and aeromechanics. You will be an integral part of a team dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of engine performance and reliability for a diverse range of commercial and potentially military aircraft. Your expertise will directly impact operational costs and safety metrics for our clients within the South African aviation industry .

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct detailed performance analysis of turbine engines using flight data, test cell results, and diagnostic tools.
• Monitor engine parameters, identify trends, and diagnose performance deterioration or anomalies.
• Develop and implement strategies for optimizing engine performance, fuel efficiency, and operational life.
• Perform root cause analysis for performance-related issues and recommend appropriate maintenance or repair actions.
• Maintain and update engine performance databases and predictive models.
• Collaborate with engineering, maintenance, and operational teams to implement performance enhancement initiatives.
• Prepare technical reports and present findings and recommendations to management and clients.
• Stay current with the latest advancements in turbine engine technology and performance monitoring techniques.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant aviation regulations and company quality standards.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
• Minimum of 6 years of experience specifically in turbine engine performance analysis and diagnostics.
• Proven expertise in gas turbine engine thermodynamics, aerodynamics, and performance modeling.
• Proficiency with engine performance analysis software (e.g., specialized MRO software, MATLAB).
• Experience with flight data analysis and engine health monitoring (EHM) systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with meticulous attention to detail.
• Excellent report writing and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a demanding Durban operational setting.
• Knowledge of various engine types (e.g., CFM56, GE90, PW4000) is highly advantageous.

Benefits

Our client is offering a competitive salary commensurate with experience, along with performance-based incentives and a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, retirement fund, and life insurance. Opportunities for continuous professional development are abundant, with access to specialized training, workshops, and conferences in the aerospace engineering field . Employees also benefit from paid annual leave and the chance to work with advanced technologies in a supportive environment. This role provides a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on engine performance and reliability within the South African aviation maintenance sector , based in Durban .