0151 - Principal Propulsion Engineer

Manassas, VA
Full Time
Experienced
About Electra:
From revolutionizing air travel with our sustainable eSTOL aircraft to tackling critical climate science missions with our solar-powered stratospheric UAS, Electra builds airplanes that make sense. Our world-class team of engineers isn’t afraid to disrupt the status quo and we plan to change the world with modern ideas that challenge conventional thinking. Electra is a new aerospace company headquartered in Northern Virginia and we're on a quest to build a team of insanely talented people who want to do meaningful work. 

Primary Purpose:  
Electra is seeking an experienced Principal Propulsion Engineer to support the development of a hybrid electric propulsion system for a 9-passenger eSTOL (electric short takeoff and landing) 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.

Responsibilities & Essential Functions:
  • Support development of the hybrid electric propulsion system, including batteries, high voltage electrical distribution, electric motors, power electronics, turbogenerator, fuel system, fire protection, 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 evaluate compliance to requirements.
  • 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.
  • Other Duties as assigned.
Qualifications & Required Skills
  • A strong work ethic and ability to independently meet and lead the areas described in the responsibilities and essential functions.
  • Experience in the development of aerospace propulsion systems.
  • 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.
Minimum Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor’s degree in aerospace, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or other related technical discipline; and
  • 12+ years of experience or an equivalent combination of education, skills, and experience.
Additional Desired Skills:
  • Master’s Degree preferred.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of the Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs), certification procedures (especially Part 23), and relevant industry standards.
  • Experience with hybrid-electric propulsion systems.
  • US Person (Citizen or Green Card) Preferred
  • Licensed Pilot Preferred (FAA, EASA, PPL, CPL, etc.)

Location: HQ in Manassas, VA. To encourage close collaboration on a complex program, this position requires daily onsite office hours.

Travel: <25%, Domestic & International Travel
The above job description is not intended to be, nor should it be construed as exhaustive of all responsibilities, skills, efforts, or working conditions associated with the job.

Salary: Electra’s overall salary range for this level is: $100,750 - $224,750
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.

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.

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