Propulsion Architect

Propulsion Architect

Long Beach, CA

What Is JetZero?

Today's aircraft contribute around 4% of global CO2 emissions, equivalent to the emissions of 200 million cars. This is only going to increase: Air travel is forecasted to double by 2050, while meaningful efficiency gains using current airplanes have hit a wall.

JetZero is developing a blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft. It uses up to 50% less fuel and will be built to accommodate zero-emission hydrogen propulsion. JetZero is the inevitable solution to sustainable air travel.

The JetZero Team

We are experienced aerospace professionals and engineers, excited about the future. That future will only be possible if we share our vision and what it means to people's lives: carbon-free flight that is better for both passengers and airlines around the world.

The Propulsion Architect will combine engineering management, supplier engagement, strategy, business development, and a strong technical background in propulsion airframe integration. You'll be interfacing with internal organizations from other engineering groups, supply chain, sales & marketing, and external groups such as the Engine, APU, and Nacelle OEMs.

You'll work in a collaborative, multidisciplinary, agile environment using modern tools and practices, with strong opportunities for professional development. In addition, contribute to the design and development of the Blended Wing Body (BWB) aircraft. The candidate will lead the Powerplant teams to supplier selection.

What You'll Do:

• Novel Integration Design: Lead the powerplant architecture definition and integration for the Blended Wing Body (BWB) aircraft, ensuring alignment with overall vehicle performance, safety, and certification requirements.
• Technical Integration & Analysis: Lead technical risk identification and mitigation related to propulsion integration, including performance, operability, maintainability, and certification challenges.
• Supplier Partnership: Serve as the primary technical interface with external OEMs (engine, APU, nacelle), ensuring alignment on requirements, integration constraints, and development timelines.
• Supply Chain Support: Own and execute the supplier selection process for propulsion systems, including requirements definition, evaluation, negotiation support, and final recommendation.
• Strategic Leadership: Manage and guide Powerplant Engineering teams, providing technical leadership, prioritization, and mentorship through concept, design, and supplier down-selection phases.
• System Strategy and Trades: Drive propulsion system strategy, including trade studies, configuration selection, and long-term technology roadmaps across engines, APUs, and nacelle systems. Support program-level decision making by providing data-driven analyses, trade studies, and executive-level technical recommendations.
• Strategic Leadership: Manage and guide Powerplant Engineering teams, providing technical leadership, prioritization, and mentorship through concept, design, and supplier down-selection phases.
• Engineering Cross-Functional Engagement: Collaborate cross-functionally with airframe, systems, structures, aerodynamics, and flight sciences teams to ensure seamless propulsion-airframe integration.
• Program Cross-Functional Engagement: Partner with Supply Chain, Sales & Marketing, and Business Development to align propulsion decisions with program cost targets, market needs, and strategic partnerships.
• JZ Champion: Represent JetZero in external engagements, including suppliers, partners, and industry stakeholders, as a subject matter expert in propulsion architecture.
• Revolutionary Engineering Methods: Champion modern engineering practices and tools within a collaborative, agile development environment

What You Bring:

• Bachelor of Science degree from an accredited course of study in engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering
• 15+ years experience in propulsion

Preferred Skills & Experience

• 15+ years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education (Master's, PhD) and experience.
• 5+ years of management-level experience or an equivalent combination of education (MBA) and experience.
• Foundational knowledge of gas turbine engine operation and thermodynamics
• Knowledge of Engine/APU turbomachinery design, development, & certification. (e.g., 14 CFR Part 25, Part 33)
• Prior involvement in engine development and certification programs
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Experience leading system integration, supplier oversight, and technical decision-making in aerospace or related industries.
• Demonstrated ability to understand and resolve complex engine installation and integration problems across structural, systems, and certification domains.
• Proven ability to plan and execute qualification testing, produce technical documentation (interface drawings, installation reports, test procedures), and manage configuration and requirements.
• Strong technical background in engine integration, installation analysis, and aircraft-level interfaces (pylons, mounts, ducts, fuel/oil/airlines, control lines, thermal and aerodynamic interactions).
• Proven manager and leader in Propulsion Airframe Integration and Aerodynamics in early-stage conceptual development and production programs.
• Ability to lead a team, including training and mentoring more junior engineers who will contribute to the team's success.
• Able to work effectively with the entire value stream to accomplish desired results
• Able to independently develop strategies and innovative solutions that meet business targets

Compensation

Our compensation package is a blend of base salary and equity options for eligible employees. The range for this role is $180,000-$220,000. We consider a number of factors when presenting a final offer, including geography, internal equity and years of experience and expertise.

Benefits

• Unlimited PTO
• 10 paid holidays
• 401(k)
• Medical, Dental, Vision
• Disability Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Equity tax advisory services
• Supportive work culture

The Interview Process

We want our interview process to be a true reflection of our culture: transparent and collaborative. Throughout the interview process, your recruiter will guide you through the next steps and ensure you feel prepared every step of the way.

• Our First Chat: During this first conversation, you'll meet with a recruiter or hiring team member to chat through your background, what you could bring to our team, what you are looking for in your next role, and who we are.
• The Hiring Manager Interview: You will meet with your potential future boss to really dive into the role, the team, expectations, and what success means at JetZero. This is your chance to really nerd out with someone in your field.
• The Panel: Learn more about the team, responsibilities, and workflows. You should be prepared to speak about past projects, how you collaborate and communicate with others, and how you live our values. Depending on the team and role you are interviewing for, you may meet with several teammates as well as cross-functional partners.
• The Executive Review: A chance to meet an executive and view JetZero from a different lens. Be prepared to ask well-thought-out questions about the company, culture, and more.

Depending on the position you are interviewing for, there may also be a Take Home Exercise as part of the interview process. Our assessments seek to test the hard skills required to do the job. Your recruiter will inform you of which assessment you will be assigned and ensure you are fully prepared for your big day.

JetZero does not sponsor visas for US positions unless specified. Only applicants with current work authorization will be considered.

At JetZero, we value diversity and are an equal opportunity employer by choice. We consider all qualified applicants equally for employment & do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, protected veteran status, religion, physical or mental disability, marital status, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, or any other basis protected by federal, state or local laws, ordinance, or regulation.