Full Job Description
We are seeking a Propulsion Performance Engineer to own engine calibration and performance for the reciprocating engines that power the V-BAT platform. This role serves as the technical owner for engine calibration strategy - driving test plans, ECU tuning, and performance analysis from bench through flight test - and is accountable for the torque, power, speed, and fuel efficiency characteristics the engine delivers across its full operating envelope.
You'll work hands-on with engine hardware, electronic fuel injection and engine control systems, and engine test stands, creating and executing engine testing strategies under the direction of senior staff propulsion engineers. Candidates with a background in air-cooled or aviation two-stroke engines are especially encouraged to apply; at minimum, we're looking for someone with deep hands-on experience on reciprocating engines (four-stroke or two-stroke) who can own calibration decisions with minimal oversight.
What You'll Do In This Role
3 Support the engine calibration strategy by defining test plans, calibration methodology, and acceptance criteria across dynamometer, bench, and flight test campaigns.
3 Perform ECU configuration and tuning (including fuel mapping, ignition timing, and injector phasing) to optimize engine performance, fuel efficiency, and reliability across the operating envelope.
3 Analyze and deliver torque, power, and fuel consumption results, identifying calibration or hardware improvement opportunities and driving corrective action.
3 Lead troubleshooting and root-cause investigations for engine testing for the development team and production teams.
3 Reduce and interpret test and flight data to validate performance against requirements, closing gaps between design intent and measured behavior.
3 Represent engine calibration and performance in design reviews, technical readiness checkpoints, and cross-functional discussions with design, controls, and flight test teams.
3 Develop and maintain calibration documentation, procedures, and performance reporting to support program milestones.
3 Support refinement of performance models for the propulsion system and the vehicle through targeted test campaigns and data review.
Required qualifications:
3 Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
3 2-3 years of experience in a mechanical or aerospace engineering role, with a focus on engine performance or calibration.
3 Deep hands-on experience with reciprocating (piston) engines.
3 Demonstrated experience with electronically controlled fuel injectors and fuel injection systems.
3 Proven experience with ECU configuration and engine calibration, including ownership of calibration decisions.
3 Strong ability to analyze and interpret engine torque, power, and fuel consumption data to drive engine design, ECU calibration, and vehicle performance decisions.
3 U.S. Citizenship or ability to comply with ITAR requirements.
Preferred qualifications:
3 Podium finish in FSAE competition, with at least one first place trophy in any dynamic event.
3 Background in air-cooled engines, particularly aviation two-stroke platforms.
3 Experience with dynamometer test cells and associated data acquisition systems.
3 Deep familiarity with fuel maps, ignition timing strategies, and closed-loop engine control logic.
3 Proficiency in Python or MATLAB for data reduction and calibration tooling.
3 Experience writing custom data analysis tools to automate engine performance analysis and calibration workflows.
3 Experience supporting military propulsion systems, tactical aircraft, or high-performance aerospace platforms.
3 M.S. or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
$94,000 - $142,000 a year
Full-time regular employee offer package:
Pay within range listed + Bonus + Benefits + Equity
Temporary employee offer package:
Pay within range listed above + temporary benefits package (applicable after 60 days of employment)
Salary compensation is influenced by a wide array of factors including but not limited to skill set, level of experience, licenses and certifications, and specific work location. All offers are contingent on a cleared background and possible reference check. Military fellows and part-time employees are not eligible for benefits. Please speak to your talent acquisition representative for more information.