Manager, Propulsion (Systems & Components) (R5087)

Seattle, Washingtonfull time

On Site

senior

H1B: no

Shield Manager of Propulsion (Systems & Components) leading development of flight-critical propulsion hardware for X-BAT vehicle. Oversee multidisciplinary team responsible for propulsion component design, integration, testing, and operational support.

Responsibilities

We are seeking a Manager of Propulsion to lead propulsion subsystem and component development for the X-BAT vehicle, powered by a fighter-class, afterburning jet engine. This role oversees the development of flight-critical propulsion hardware including valves, ducting, secondary structures, thermal systems, bleed air systems, oil systems, and integrated mechanical components operating in challenging thermal, vibration, and mass-constrained environments.
Lead propulsion subsystem and component development activities from concept through flight operations.
Mentor propulsion REs responsible for propulsion hardware design, integration, testing, and operational support.
Lead the design and development of propulsion components requiring careful balance of mass, thermal capability, structural integrity, manufacturability, and performance.
Guide engineering teams through challenging thermal and flow environments involving high temperatures, pressure loads, vibration, and transient operation.
Drive component-level architecture and integration decisions for valves, actuators, ducts, mounts, and supporting propulsion hardware.
Drive cross-functional alignment between design, manufacturing, supply chain, test, and vehicle teams.
Support technical reviews, integration planning, and root cause investigations.
Drive team execution, staffing priorities, technical rigor, and measurable results.
Coordinate supplier activities and technical deliverables supporting propulsion hardware.

Qualification

Strong understanding of thermodynamicsFamiliarity with Siemens NXFamiliarity with valve designBackground in rocket propulsion

Required

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related engineering discipline.
7-10+ years of experience in aerospace propulsion, fluid systems, or hardware development environments.
Experience leading engineering teams or complex subsystem development efforts.
Strong understanding of thermodynamics, heat transfer, fluid mechanics, and aerospace propulsion fundamentals.
Strong understanding of aerospace component design, structural integration, and thermal/mechanical design constraints.
Hands-on experience supporting development hardware and rapid iteration programs.
U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
Ability to obtain a S//SAR level security clearance desired.

Preferred

Experience designing propulsion subsystems including valves, bleed air systems, oil systems, ducting, thermal systems, or structural integration hardware.
Familiarity with Siemens NX, Teamcenter, ANSYS, FEA, GFSSP, or REFPROP.
Experience designing high-performance aerospace components operating in thermally stressed or high-vibration environments.
Familiarity with valve design, sealing strategies, high-temperature materials, and flow path optimization.
Background in rocket propulsion, turbomachinery, or high-temperature aerospace hardware.
Experience operating in test-driven aerospace development environments.
M.S. or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering or related discipline.
Full-time regular employee offer package: