Design Engineer - Advanced Engines Architectures

About POWERTECH

POWERTECH is a center of excellence for propulsion technologies, specializing in the design, engineering, and manufacturing of combustion engines, expendable turbojet engines, and turbofan engines for a wide range of aerospace, defence, and autonomous applications, including fixed- and rotary-wing UAVs and other advanced platforms.

Job Summary:

The Design Engineer – Advanced Engine Architectures will contribute to the design, simulation, and development of future propulsion systems—ranging from the unconventional to the unprecedented. This entry-to-mid-level role is ideal for engineers who thrive on exploration, challenge assumptions, and aren’t afraid to experiment with bold ideas.  We’re looking for someone who combines strong technical skills with creativity and intellectual curiosity—someone who approaches constraints with a problem-solving mindset and is comfortable questioning existing approaches to find better solutions. You’ll work alongside experienced engineers in a collaborative environment where innovation, critical thinking, and continuous learning are valued. 

If you're motivated by solving complex challenges and contributing to the advancement of propulsion technology, this is an opportunity to make a meaningful impact. Show us how awesome you are by adding a cover letter shining your personality and unconventionality.

Key Responsibilities:

• Engine Design and Development Support:
• Assist in the design, analysis, and development of new engine architectures, focusing on unconventional and revolutionary propulsion systems.
• Collaborate with senior engineers to model, simulate, and test innovative propulsion designs and concepts.
• Component Design and Modeling:
• Create detailed 3D CAD models of propulsion components and assemblies under the guidance of senior engineers.
• Translate high-level design requirements into initial geometry and layouts, considering functional and structural needs.
• Apply engineering reasoning and basic physics to size structural components.
• Structural and thermal analysis:
• Perform FEA simulations of parts and subassemblies under operating loads using commercial software.
• Contribute to the evaluation of materials and structural integrity based on simulation outcomes and design criteria.
• Work closely with the team to iterate on geometry and improve mechanical performance.
• Assist in estimating loads, pressures and heat transfer environments based on input from system-level simulations or performance tools.
• Design and Simulation Tools:
• Write or maintain scripts (Python, MATLAB, etc.) to:
• Automate geometry generation and parameterized design studies.
• Manage pre-/post- processing pipelines for FEA and CAD data.
• Run design space explorations, batch simulations or optimization loops.
• Size systems and components for different propulsion architectures.
• Contribute to the internal library of design and analysis tools used by the team.
• Collaboration and Communication:
• Work closely with senior engineers, team members, and cross-functional departments to support the development of revolutionary propulsion technologies.
• Contribute to internal project meetings by providing technical insights and updates on ongoing tasks, designs, and challenges.
• Collaborate with external teams and research institutions on specific tasks related to engine design and testing.
• Innovation and Research:
• Conduct research on the latest advancements in propulsion systems, new materials, and energy-efficient technologies, providing technical input for the team.
• Assist in the exploration and evaluation of emerging trends and technologies, such as electric propulsion, thermodynamic cycles, and next-gen fuel systems.
• Documentation and Reporting:
• Prepare technical reports, presentations, and documentation to capture design iterations, testing outcomes, and technical findings.
• Assist in the preparation of patent filings, technical papers, and publications to document innovative engine architectures and technologies developed within the team.

Qualifications:

• Education:
• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• Emphasis on mechanical design, structural mechanics or thermal-fluid sciences preferred.
• Experience:
• 1-5 years of experience in CAD design and FEA of mechanical components.
• Familiarity with aerospace or propulsion systems is beneficial.
• Experience using CAD tools (e.g., Siemens NX, SolidWorks, CATIA) & basic knowledge of FEA platforms (e.g., ANSYS, Abaqus, COMSOL).
• Skills:
• Required
• Basic understanding of propulsion system fundamentals, thermodynamics, and fluid dynamics.
• Strong mechanical design and modeling ability using CAD tools.
• Practical experience in FEA, and thermal loading
• Scripting proficiency (Python, MATLAB, C# or similar) to support design and analysis workflows
• Excellent problem-solving and analytical skills with an eagerness to learn and grow in advanced propulsion technologies.
• Ability to work effectively in a team environment, collaborating with colleagues across engineering disciplines.
• Desirable (Not required)
• Exposure to propulsion concepts (e.g., turbines, compressors, electric propulsion, combustion systems)
• Knowledge of design for additive manufacturing tools like Fusion360 or PicoGK.
• Familiarity with CFD tools or cycle modelling software
• Experience with testing and validation processes, including the setup and execution of experiments.
• Familiarity with new materials and manufacturing processes related to propulsion systems, including lightweight composites and high-performance alloys.
• Basic understanding of emerging technologies in AI, machine learning, and their applications in propulsion system optimization.

Personal Attributes:

• Curious and Motivated: A strong desire to learn and contribute to the development of cutting-edge propulsion systems.
• Detail-Oriented: A keen attention to detail and accuracy, especially when it comes to testing, simulations, and design analysis.
• Team Player: Ability to collaborate and communicate effectively within a team, offering support and sharing ideas.
• Proactive and Initiative-Driven: Self-motivated with a proactive approach to problem-solving and task management.
• Adaptable: Comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where innovation and change are constant.

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