Job Description

Job DescriptionJob Description About the Company Our client is a fast-growing startup on a mission to reinvent supersonic aircraft. They are an engineering collective innovating on engine, airframe, and systems that industry hasn’t in over 50 years. With the world’s first turboelectric adaptive jet engine — efficient at every speed — they are ready to revolutionize flight from security to commercial aviation. They are a team of hardcore engineers who live and breathe aerospace. They are generalists who each have subject matter expertise and operate in a flat organizational structure. They move fast and build world-changing technology in a pragmatic and competent workplace culture. This is a direct hire, permanent placement position for a client of AdAstra Talent Advisors. This role is based in San Francisco, CA. More company details will be shared during an initial call. About the Role Our client is looking for a Senior Engineer to own the blade geometry and aerodynamic design of their propulsion system’s compressor section. You are an experienced engineer with deep roots in compressor aerodynamics and a track record of designing, testing, and optimizing axial compressors for high-performance engines. You thrive at the intersection of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and real-world integration challenges, and you can lead from concept through to test and iteration. You’re a builder, an analyst, and a mentor—equally comfortable diving into CFD models or rolling up your sleeves in a test cell. Your contributions will directly influence the efficiency and thrust capability of the world’s first turboelectric adaptive jet engine. Responsibilities Own the aerodynamic and mechanical design of axial compressor stages from clean-sheet to flight-ready hardware Run blade design trade studies across a wide operating envelope, balancing performance, operability, and structural integrity Develop, validate, and iterate computational models using StarCCM+, AxSTREAM, and other in-house tools Utilize engine cycle models (GasTurb, NPSS) to generate and refine compressor maps Evaluate blade designs using FEA and rotordynamics tools (e.g., DyRoBes) to analyze critical speeds, balance conditions, and Campbell diagrams Lead bearing selection, preload definition, and stiffness trade studies in coordination with thermal management constraints Define GD&T for compressor assemblies, including tolerance stackups, fitment, and non-contacting seal clearances Specify manufacturing methods for high-performance, precision turbomachinery components, enabling rapid iteration with cost-effective processes Integrate compressor design into the broader propulsion and aircraft system architecture Lead compressor testing instrumentation strategy and test campaign execution, including placement of accelerometers and sensors for modal validation, spectral analysis, and blade vibration monitoring Analyze test data and integrate findings into system-level performance models and next-gen hardware design cycles Requirements 7+ years of experience in axial compressor design, with a focus on high pressure compressors and advanced fan systems Proven track record of blade geometry development using CFD, streamline curvature, and 1D meanline methods Proficient in solid and surface CAD modeling (Siemens NX) and multiphysics analysis Experience integrating compressor design into full engine systems, with understanding of thermodynamics, rotordynamics, and cycle-performance coupling Familiarity with test instrumentation, data reduction, and anchoring analysis with experimental results Skilled in engine cycle modeling tools (GasTurb, NPSS) and scripting tools (Python, Matlab) for analysis automation and data processing Deep understanding of propulsion system integration, thermodynamics, rotordynamics, and turbomachinery Effective communicator capable of leading cross-functional design reviews and contributing to system architecture discussions Demonstrated history of innovation, technical authorship, and real-world test experience Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality and ownership in all work *The above qualifications are desired, not required. We encourage you to apply if you are a strong candidate with only some of the desired skills and experience listed. Additional Information Our client values in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen their company culture. They consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role. Our client is an equal opportunity employer. They proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Logistical Requirements This is an onsite, full-time position based in San Francisco, CA. ITAR Requirement To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicant must be a U.S. , lawful permanent of the U.S., protected individual as defined by ITAR (22 CFR §120.15), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here. Benefit Highlights Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, including Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) 401(k) program and transparent stock option plan Self-managed and flexible time-off policy, including PTO, paid holidays, and sick time Flexible work environment Company-funded perks, including weekly team lunches and company swag Cash compensation of $180,000 - $220,000. Compensation is determined by role, level, location, and alignment with market data. Individual level and base pay is determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on job-related skills, education, experience, technical capabilities and internal equity. About AdAstra AdAstra Talent Advisors is a headhunting and talent advising firm focused on the Climate, Space, and Defense sectors of Hard Tech. We specialize in pairing highly technical and executive talent with some of the world’s leading Hard Tech startups. At AdAstra, we catalyze the innovations that future depend on by placing the right people in the right seats. Our dedicated work enables inconceivable technology from Earth, to the stars. And it’s all because of trailblazing talent like you - those driven to do what’s never been done before. We care about long term relationships with both candidates and companies. Even if the role we initially discuss isn’t a perfect fit, it’s likely we’ll have something relevant to share with you in the future. Join us on our journey by following along via LinkedIn! CEO, Seyka Mejeur | LinkedIn profile CTO / COO, Brian Mejeur | LinkedIn profile AdAstra Talent Advisors | LinkedIn profile AdAstra Website #J-18808-Ljbffr ZipRecruiter

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