Propulsion Lead

Windracers is looking for a Propulsion Lead to take technical ownership of the powerplant and propulsion systems for our fixed-wing logistics UAV platforms.

This role is responsible for the full lifecycle of propulsion systems, from architecture and integration through testing, production support, and operational reliability. You will work closely with aircraft design, systems, manufacturing, and operations teams to ensure propulsion solutions deliver the required performance, efficiency, and reliability in real-world operations.

This is a key role within the physical engineering team and offers the opportunity to shape the propulsion architecture of a growing UAV fleet.

What You’ll Do

• Lead the design, development, and integration of aircraft propulsion systems including engines or motors, propellers, mounts, and cooling.
• Define and maintain the propulsion architecture for current and future aircraft platforms
• Define propulsion design standards, integration principles, and best practices.
• Own the design review process ensuring designs are procurable, manufacturable and maintainable.
• Work with airframe, systems, and functional engineering teams to ensure successful aircraft integration
• Manage technical relationships with engine, motor, propeller suppliers and Regulatory bodies.
• Evaluate emerging propulsion technologies and support long-term propulsion strategy.
• Define propulsion development, verification and validation test strategies including ground testing, endurance testing, and flight test support in line with regulatory requirements.
• Investigate propulsion-related issues and support root cause analysis and reliability improvements
• Provide full lifecycle support for propulsion systems during aircraft production and operation, including maintenance schedules, troubleshooting, reliability improvements, and design updates.
• Contribute to aircraft-level trade studies involving performance, weight, efficiency, and maintainability
  

What We’re Looking For

• Degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, or Mechanical Engineering (or equivalent experience)
• Experience working with aircraft propulsion systems is highly desirable (engines, motors, propellers, or powertrains)
• Strong understanding of powerplant integration challenges including thermal, structural, and installation considerations on vehicles
• Ability to work across multiple engineering disciplines in a complex aircraft environment
• Capability to deliver designs within an engineering governance environment
• Experience supporting testing, development, or operational aircraft systems

Nice to Have

• Experience with UAV or small aircraft development
• Familiarity with piston engine, hybrid or electric propeller propulsion systems
• Experience working with propulsion suppliers or external partners