Principal Engineer, Propulsion Integration

Otto Aerospace is building the next generation of business aircraft, focusing on fuel efficiency and cabin comfort. They are seeking a dynamic Principal Engineer to oversee the design, development, and integration of propulsion systems, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and leading a team of engineers.

Responsibilities:

• Define and manage propulsion system requirements in line with Otto’s mission objectives and regulatory requirements
• Perform trade studies across key propulsion systems and features against requirements
• Oversee supplier integration activities, including the engine supplier
• Lead propulsion system development through conceptual design, preliminary design, detailed design, integration, qualification, and certification phases
• Generate, review, and/or approve functional hazard assessments, system safety analyses, engineering drawings, schematics, specifications, test plans & reports, and compliance documentation
• Coordinate with cross functional teams to define and validate propulsion interfaces with adjacent systems and structures
• Lead development of the propulsion system CAD definition within Otto’s PLM system
• Define and show compliance for responsible systems to 14 CFR Part 23 and Part 25 regulatory requirements and interface with certification authorities
• Work with maintenance and operation experts on meeting reliability and maintainability targets
• Oversee component, system, and aircraft level functional testing, including certification ground and flight tests
• Technical oversight and mentorship of junior engineers
• Prepare and present technical performance, cost, and schedule material for reviews to program management and engineering technical community

Requirements:

• B.S., in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent
• 8-12 years of experience in the design and development of propulsion systems
• 3+ years of direct experience with FADEC controlled turbofan engine integration in a Part 23 or Part 25 aircraft; familiarity with engine installation manuals
• 2+ years of experience overseeing, guiding, and mentoring less experienced engineers
• 2+ years of involvement in bid, proposal, and project capture activities
• Proficiency using engine computer performance models (engine cycle deck analysis)
• Mastery of FAR Part 23 and Part 25 certification requirements and processes pertinent to the propulsion systems
• Strong understanding and experience with RTCA D-160G, DO-178, DO-254, and SAE ARP4754A
• Good knowledge of Geometrical Dimensioning and Tolerancing
• Strong knowledge of industry standards and hands-on experience
• Overall knowledge of mechanical systems, fuel systems, environmental control systems, structures, avionics and electrical systems, and key interfaces to the propulsion system
• Proficiency with Dassault 3DX and/or CATIA V6 to interrogate both 3D and 2D data
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Ability to closely coordinate with manufacturing to support MRB activities
• Experience managing supplier relationships
• Active Listening: Practice gaining insight and truly understand all project stakeholders
• Critical Thinking: Make prompt, informed, and value-based decisions for the project
• Organization: Focus on agenda, schedules, frameworks, and methodologies, as well as communicating tasks, updates, progress, and blockers
• Problem Solving: Assess issues from different vantage points and formulate the best solution in addressing specific challenges
• Self-Motivation: Exude highest level of commitment and motivation to see tasks/projects from start to finish
• Teamwork and Team Building: Establish a collaborative culture that facilitates people with unique personalities and skills, happily working together to accomplish a shared goal
• Strong Business Communication: Use thoughtful language, tone and storytelling techniques when communicating, describing, or explaining issues over email, chat, reports, presentations and other forms and channels of communication