Propulsion Engineer

About the Role

We are looking for a Propulsion Engineer with hands-on experience in UAV / aerospace propulsion and powertrain systems. The role will involve propulsion system selection, characterization, battery and BMS integration, power management, thermal management, and propulsion testing.

The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of electric propulsion, energy systems, battery technologies, and aerospace propulsion systems, along with practical experience in testing and system integration.

Key Responsibilities

Propulsion System Development

• Perform motor and ESC selection and characterization.
• Select and configure Li-Po / Li-Ion battery packs.
• Conduct dynamometer and thrust testing.
• Support UAV / aerospace propulsion system integration and validation.

Power & Energy Management

• Develop power consumption profiles across take-off, cruise, hover, and other operating conditions.
• Analyze propulsion system efficiency and optimize energy usage for extended endurance.
• Perform propulsion system sizing and performance analysis.

Battery & BMS Integration

• Integrate Battery Management Systems (BMS).
• Ensure cell balancing, safety monitoring, and thermal protection.
• Support battery pack integration and validation.

Electrical Integration

• Develop high-current wiring and connector specifications.
• Support robust power distribution architecture.
• Coordinate electrical integration with propulsion and vehicle systems.

Thermal & EMI/EMC Management

• Develop active and passive thermal management solutions.
• Identify and mitigate EMI/EMC issues associated with ESCs, motors, batteries, and high-current systems.
• Work with aerospace environmental and compliance requirements such as DO-160 and MIL-STD.

ICE & Hybrid Propulsion

• Support engine tuning and EFI calibration for ICE-based propulsion systems.
• Contribute to hybrid propulsion integration and testing, where applicable.

Required Technical Skills

• Strong experience in UAV / aerospace propulsion or powertrain systems.
• Good understanding of:
• Electric propulsion
• Motor & ESC systems
• Battery technologies – Li-Po / Li-Ion
• BMS integration
• Energy management
• Thermal management
• EMI/EMC mitigation
• Hands-on experience with propulsion testing, including thrust and dynamometer testing.
• Exposure to aerospace environmental standards such as DO-160 / MIL-STD.

Tools & Software

Simulation: MATLAB / Simulink

Testing & Instrumentation: LabVIEW

Propulsion Sizing: eCalc / MotoCalc

CAD Coordination: Siemens NX / SolidWorks

Education

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Mechanical, Electrical, Aerospace Engineering, or a related discipline.