Lead Propulsion Engineer - Mechanical Design

Lead Propulsion Engineer – Mechanical Design

Our client is an innovative aerospace company developing next-generation propulsion technology for high-performance flight. Working at the forefront of advanced gas turbine development, they're building clean-sheet propulsion systems in a fast-paced startup environment where engineers have significant ownership and influence over both product development and engineering processes.

We're seeking a Lead Propulsion Engineer – Mechanical Design to take technical ownership of the mechanical architecture for an advanced gas turbine engine. This is a highly visible role where you'll lead the design of critical engine hardware while helping shape the mechanical engineering function within a collaborative, multidisciplinary propulsion team.

This opportunity is ideal for an experienced turbo machinery engineer who enjoys solving complex mechanical challenges, working across multiple engineering disciplines, and seeing designs progress from concept through manufacturing, testing, and production.

• Lead the mechanical design of advanced gas turbine engine systems and rotating machinery.
• Own key mechanical aspects of the engine, including rotor dynamics, structural interfaces, sealing systems, mounts, joints, actuators, and dynamic loading scenarios.
• Develop detailed CAD models, engine layouts, module assemblies, tolerance stack-ups, and engineering drawings.
• Define and review GD&T, manufacturing requirements, and component interfaces.
• Collaborate with aerodynamics, structures, thermal, secondary air systems, and systems engineering teams to ensure successful engine integration.
• Support assembly, disassembly, manufacturing, testing, and production planning throughout the engine development lifecycle.
• Provide technical leadership across mechanical design activities while mentoring other engineers within the team.

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Significant experience designing gas turbine, turbo machinery, or propulsion system hardware.
• Expert‑level proficiency with CAD platforms such as CATIA, Siemens NX, 3
  
  DEXPERIENCE, or equivalent.
• Strong knowledge of Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing (GD&T).
• Experience designing components using modern aerospace manufacturing processes, including castings, forgings, additive manufacturing, and welded assemblies.
• Experience leading component or module design throughout multiple phases of product development.
• Strong understanding of mechanical integration within complex propulsion systems.
• Excellent communication and cross‑functional collaboration skills.

• Engine or rig testing experience.
• Knowledge of rotor dynamics, heat transfer, structural analysis, or mechanical system integration.
• Experience with PLM/PDM systems and parametric modelling.
• Familiarity with component disposition and manufacturing support processes.
• Experience developing engineering tools, automation, or design methodologies.
• Programming experience using Python or similar languages.
• Background within aerospace propulsion, industrial gas turbines, power generation, or other high‑performance rotating machinery.

• Take ownership of major mechanical systems within a clean-sheet propulsion development programme.
• Join a high‑performing engineering team solving challenging real‑world hardware problems from concept through production.
• Work in a fast‑paced startup environment where engineers have significant influence, autonomy, and technical ownership.
• Collaborate with experienced multidisciplinary teams developing next‑generation propulsion technology.
• Competitive compensation, equity, comprehensive benefits, relocation assistance, and flexible PTO.