Job Description
Propulsion Engineer - Lead Integration of Piston Engine Systems for Fixed-Wing UAV Platforms Fort Worth, Texas | On-site Opportunity Summary Join a growing aerospace and defense engineering team developing next-generation unmanned aircraft systems for government and commercial applications. This role will lead propulsion integration efforts across fixed-wing UAV platforms, with a primary focus on piston-powered aircraft systems designed for reliability, manufacturability, and operational performance. The position owns propulsion integration from early architecture and airframe compatibility through flight testing, production readiness, and operational support. This is a highly hands-on engineering role focused on integrating internal combustion propulsion systems into scalable UAV platforms. The work includes engine installation, thermal and vibration management, cooling design, fuel systems, propeller integration, and coordination across structures, avionics, and flight test teams. The ideal candidate is comfortable operating across design, testing, troubleshooting, and rapid iteration environments where execution speed and system reliability are equally important. About Us We are a venture-backed aerospace company focused on developing scalable unmanned aircraft systems for demanding operational environments. The team specializes in fixed-wing aircraft designed for rapid deployment, manufacturability, and mission flexibility. Operating in a fast-paced development environment, the company emphasizes practical engineering, integrated testing, and building reliable hardware that can transition from prototype through production. J ob Duties Lead integration of piston engine propulsion systems across fixed-wing UAV platforms Own propulsion system layout including engine mounting, cooling airflow, exhaust routing, fuel systems, and propeller selection Conduct propulsion trade studies evaluating endurance, thermal performance, reliability, vibration, acoustic signature, and maintainability Coordinate propulsion integration with airframe, avionics, structures, electrical, and flight controls teams Support engine selection, installation standards, and integration philosophies across multiple aircraft configurations Define and execute propulsion ground testing and flight validation activities Analyze propulsion-related issues tied to thermal management, vibration, performance, and operational reliability Support flight test campaigns and drive corrective actions tied to propulsion anomalies or system failures Ensure propulsion installations support manufacturability, maintainability, and scalable production requirements Work closely with suppliers, manufacturing teams, and leadership on propulsion-related technical decisions Develop technical documentation, integration procedures, and configuration standards Mentor junior engineers and provide technical guidance during design reviews and integration efforts Qualifications 5+ years of propulsion engineering experience within aerospace, aviation, or unmanned aircraft systems Direct experience integrating piston engine propulsion systems on fixed-wing aircraft or UAV platforms Strong understanding of propulsion performance, cooling systems, vibration isolation, and structural integration Experience supporting propulsion systems through development, testing, and flight operations Familiarity with propeller systems, fuel systems, engine controls, and aircraft integration constraints Ability to troubleshoot propulsion-related performance and reliability issues in test or operational environments Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related technical field Comfortable working in fast-paced prototype and production environments Ability to travel to test sites, manufacturing facilities, and flight operations locations as needed Preferred Experience Experience with heavy-fuel or hybrid propulsion architectures for UAV applications Familiarity with FAA, military, or internal airworthiness standards Experience supporting flight test campaigns and rapid hardware iteration programs Knowledge of thermal analysis, vibration analysis, or propulsion-related FEA tools Exposure to electrical power generation systems tied to piston-powered aircraft Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field Why Join Us High ownership role with direct influence on aircraft performance and system architecture Opportunity to work on operational fixed-wing UAV platfo