Senior Design Propulsion Engineer

Job Description

Job Description

About Electra

Electra's mission is to develop Ultra Short aircraft, built for Direct Aviation. We are redefining the next level of connectivity, pioneering direct aviation - without airports, emissions, or noise. Electra's Ultra Short aircraft will revolutionize air travel by bringing it closer to where we live, work, and play, making new connections possible. This makes a new venture like Electra exciting and fast-paced. Headquartered in Northern Virginia, we're on a quest to build a team of insanely talented people who want to do meaningful work.

Job Description

Electra is seeking an experienced Senior Propulsion Design Engineer to support the development of a hybrid electric propulsion system for our Ultra Short aircraft.  This is an incredible "hands-on" opportunity to support all activities related to propulsion system development and play an integral role in a cutting-edge development program.

Key Responsibilities & Essential Functions 

• Support development of the hybrid electric propulsion system, including batteries, high voltage electrical distribution, electric motors, power electronics, turbogenerator, propellers, and other related equipment (heat exchangers, intake, and exhaust, etc.).

• Support evaluation, selection, and oversight of suppliers for propulsion equipment.

• Understand program objectives and requirements to conduct trade studies and define architectures, requirements, and interfaces between systems.

• Support development of requirements for the propulsion system, compatible with the program-level safety, performance, certification, and business objectives. 

• Utilize analysis, modeling, and simulation tools to complete trade studies and evaluate compliance to requirements.

• Document and present technical data to internal stakeholders and external customers

• Support detailed design activities for the propulsion system, including BOM development, interface management, power, and weight management, hardware and software design definition, and analysis activities.

• Provide hands-on support for propulsion system integration and test activities.

• Collaborate with program management, other IPTs, and functional groups to accomplish team goals.

• Write for government contracts

• Other Duties as assigned.

Required Education & Experience 

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or other related technical discipline; and

• 6+ years of experience or an equivalent combination of education, skills, and experience.

Required Skills

• Experience in the development of hybrid aerospace propulsion systems.

• Experience in taking an aerospace component or system through either design reviews or testing reviews

• Understanding of design standards and verification methods (analysis and test) for the development of aircraft propulsion systems.

• Excellent organization and communication skills.

• Ability to adapt well to change.

• US Person (Citizen or Green Card)

Desired Qualifications 

• Experience as the Principal Investigator (PI) for government contracts.

• Master's Degree preferred.

• Demonstrated knowledge of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), certification procedures (especially Part 23), and relevant industry standards.

• Experience modeling hybrid systems and control algorithms in Matlab/Simulink

• CAD modeling skills

• Experience writing Certification Reports

• Comfortable participating in flight testing activities

Location: HQ in Manassas, VA. To encourage close collaboration on a complex program, this position requires daily onsite office hours. Travel: <10%, Domestic & International Travel

Salary:  Electra's overall salary range for this level is: $130,000.00 - $170,000.00 Our salary ranges reflect the minimum and maximum range for the Company level overall across all locations & projects and does not necessarily reflect the budgeted amount for this position. Individual pay is based on additional factors, including project budgets, job-related skills, experience, relevant education and/or training, role, level, location, and project.  

Compensation and Benefits

In addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, at Electra, we offer an unparalleled total rewards package. Electra offers employees a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, STD, LTD, and life insurance, generous PTO and sick leave, company holidays, paid winter break, and a 401(k) plan with immediate vesting. Life at Electra includes a variety of perks, such as free catered lunches, amazing coffee, snacks, drinks, fruit, free parking, and opportunities for much more.

Working Conditions

Work is typically performed in a warehouse/aviation and office environment, which requires proper safety precautions. Work may require some physical effort in handling light materials, boxes, power tools, prototypes, and different materials or equipment. Due to the nature of our business and projects, some fieldwork may be required, working in both indoor and outdoor conditions. You may need to lift up to 50 lbs.

Background & Drug Screening

Successful completion of a background check and/or drug screening prior to starting work may be required for this position.

Commitment

We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusivity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including those from marginalized or underrepresented groups in the tech industry and aerospace, to apply for our job openings. We firmly believe that a diverse range of perspectives can profoundly influence both our product and our company culture.

Electra is committed to a work environment that is inclusive to all and free of discrimination. It is our policy to be an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic predisposition or carrier status, veteran status, citizenship status, or any other factors prohibited by law. Electra will provide reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.

Electra is an E-Verify employer.