- Robot type
- Drone · Defense
- Location
- SeattleWashingtonUSA
- Job type
- Hardware
- Posted
- May 29, 2026
- Salary
- $190,000–$290,000 a year
Manager, Propulsion (Systems & Components) (R5087)
Job description
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.
You will lead a multidisciplinary team of propulsion engineers and technicians responsible for cradle-to-grave development of propulsion components and subsystem architectures.
Job responsibilities
- 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.
Job requirements
- 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.
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