Propulsion Engineer

ANAVIA specializes in the design, development & manufacturing of vertical take-off & landing (VTOL) systems of up to 500 kilograms. The company offers industry leading unmanned helicopter systems for various mission profiles, such as Surveillance & Reconnaissance, Inspection or Mapping & Cargo.

We’re growing our engineering team!

As an Unmanned Helicopter Propulsion Engineer, you will be overseeing the integration, validation, and lifecycle management of propulsion systems for our unmanned helicopters. You are a multi-disciplinary leader who can bridge mechanical, aerospace, and systems engineering to ensure engines (heavy fuel and gas-powered systems) meet performance, weight, endurance, and environmental requirements. You have a strong background in propulsion system integration, vendor collaboration, and UAV development.

• Propulsion System Leadership: Act as the technical authority for propulsion systems. Define system requirements, responsible for engine integration and verification methods. Collaborate with vendors to troubleshoot performance issues and drive design improvements.
• Cross-Functional Integration: Work with aerodynamics, structural, and avionics teams to optimize engine placement, cooling, and vibration mitigation. Ensure propulsion systems align with the helicopter mission profiles (e.g., endurance, payload capacity, altitude, temperature, and other environmental factors).
• Testing & Validation: Lead ground and flight testing campaigns to validate engine performance under operational conditions. Develop test campaigns and test plans. Analyze data to refine system parameters.
• Vendor & Customer Management: Serve as the primary technical liaison between internal teams and propulsion system vendors. Review vendor designs, conduct risk assessments, and ensure deliverables meet project timelines. Support customer engagements to resolve requirements ambiguity.
• Lifecycle Support: Develop maintenance protocols and failure‑mode analyses for propulsion systems. Support field operations teams in diagnosing and resolving engine-related issues. Develop and maintain strategic alignment of MRO operations.
• Documentation and Compliance: Prepare detailed engineering documentation, including design specifications, testing procedures, and maintenance manuals. Ensure mechanical designs comply with relevant industry standards, safety regulations, and company policies.
• Continuous Improvement: Stay informed about advancements in mechanical engineering and UAV technology, integrating best practices into analysis processes.

• Education: Master degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field and (3) years of industry experience. Doctoral degree is equivalent to industry experience.
• Experience: 8+ years of systems engineering development experience. 5+ years in propulsion system design, integration, and test, preferably with gas or heavy fuel engines. A plus: experience with heavy fuel engines in maritime operations, and prior technical lead roles in UAV/aerospace projects.
• Skills: Knowledge of power and propulsion system and subsystem components such as fuel systems, propulsion‑airframe integration, and ground equipment.
• Proven experience managing vendor partnerships and cross‑functional engineering teams.
• Strong project management abilities (Agile, SCRUM, or similar frameworks).
• Knowledge of DO‑160, MIL‑STD‑461, or other aerospace environmental testing standards.
• Communication: Very good communication skills. High social skills and good analytical and excellent technical understanding.

• Work on exciting projects with plenty of room to grow in every direction.
• Benefit from continuous learning, professional development, and support for further training.
• Celebrate shared achievements through team events and a strong sense of community.
• Enjoy a stunning Swiss mountain view from our modern offices in Näfels and Bilten, Glarus Nord.

Be part of something extraordinary — your journey with ANAVIA starts here.

Please note that this position is open only to candidates who hold a valid Swiss work permit, EU nationality, or Swiss citizenship.