Senior Propulsion Engineer

About Electra

At Electra, we're pioneering sustainable aviation by developing hybrid‑electric Ultra Short Takeoff and Landing aircraft designed to transform regional air mobility, making air travel more efficient, quieter, and environmentally friendly. Able to operate from soccer field‑sized spaces, our Ultra Short unlocks a new era of aviation through what we call Direct Aviation—the next level of connectivity bringing air travel closer to where we live, work, and play.

Headquartered in Northern Virginia, with additional locations in Switzerland, we're building a diverse team of global professionals passionate about redefining the future of aviation.

Electra is seeking an experienced Senior Propulsion Engineer to support the development of a hybrid electric propulsion system for our Ultra Short 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.

• Support development of the hybrid electric propulsion system, including batteries, high voltage electrical distribution, electric motors, power electronics, turbo generator, 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.

• Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, or other related technical discipline.
• 8+ years of experience or an equivalent combination of education, skills, and experience.

• Experience in the development of aerospace propulsion systems.
• A strong work ethic and ability to independently meet and lead the areas described in the responsibilities and essential functions.
• 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.

• 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.
• U.S. Person (Citizen or Green Card) preferred.
• Licensed Pilot preferred (FAA, EASA, PPL, CPL, etc.).

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

25% Domestic & International Travel.

In addition to offering an exciting work environment and the opportunity to be part of the team making Ultra Short flight a reality, Electra offers 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.

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…