Lead Systems Engineer - Turbojet Design
Destinus
Madrid or Hengelo
Description
Imagine a role where your expertise in systems engineer shapes the future of high-speed aerospace travel. As our Systems Engineer – Turbojet Development, you will lead the design and integration of a small turbojet engine for our portfolio. We’re searching for a highly skilled Systems Engineer with a deep understanding of gas turbine technology and a passion for integrating high-performance rotating components and critical subsystems. This role requires a holistic system-level perspective, combined with hands-on expertise, to ensure our engine design is powerful, efficient, and production-ready.
If you’re ready to push the boundaries of propulsion technology and be part of a team that’s setting new standards in aerospace innovation—we want to hear from you!
What You’ll Do
- Lead the full lifecycle of a small turbojet engine—from conceptual design to prototype and production readiness;
- Define and optimize the engine architecture, ensuring seamless integration of compressors, turbines, combustors, bearings, lubrication, fuel systems and secondary air systems;
- Oversee mechanical integration, ensuring precise fit, alignment, and functionality of all components;
- Develop and implement advanced sealing solutions for high-speed rotating components and high-temperature environments;
- Utilize SolidWorks for detailed 3D CAD modeling of engine components and subsystems;
- Define GD&T (Geometric Dimensioning & Tolerancing) requirements to ensure manufacturing precision;
- Collaborate with suppliers and manufacturing teams to implement Design-for-Manufacturing (DFM) and Design-for-Assembly (DFA) principles;
- Develop test plans and validation procedures, including instrumentation requirements for engine testing;
- Document design processes, technical reports, and compliance with aerospace and industrial standards.
Requirements
- A highly skilled engineer (5+ years) with a strong background in gas turbine design, particularly in aerospace applications;
- An expert in turbojet integration, with deep knowledge of compressors, turbines, combustors, and secondary air systems;
- A problem-solver who thrives in high-speed engineering environments, tackling complex mechanical and aerodynamic challenges;
- Strong understanding of aerodynamics, tip clearance, and mechanical tolerancing;
- A hands-on innovator, comfortable working with state-of-the-art CAD software (SolidWorks), FEA/CFD tools (ANSYS, Star-CCM+), and advanced manufacturing processes;
- A collaborative professional who enjoys working cross-functionally with aerospace engineers, suppliers, and production teams;
- Experience in prototyping and testing of gas turbine components;
- Deep knowledge of high-temperature alloys and coatings used in turbojet engines;
- Experience with sealing solutions, including labyrinth, brush, and carbon face seals;
- Familiarity with fuel injection systems, ignition systems, and electronic engine control;
- Experience in prototyping and testing of gas turbine components;
- Fluent in English, with strong technical communication skills. (Spanish and/or French is a plus.)
Nice-to-Have
- Experience with small-scale turbojets, UAV propulsion, or auxiliary power units (APUs);
- Knowledge of engine health monitoring and control systems;
- Experience working in fast-paced, high-growth aerospace startups;
- Understanding of hydrogen-powered propulsion systems.
Who You Are
You’re not just an engineer—you’re a visionary problem-solver with the expertise, curiosity, and drive to redefine aerospace propulsion. You thrive in high-stakes environments, where precision and innovation go hand in hand. Your ability to see the big picture while mastering the intricate details of gas turbine design makes you a key player in pushing the limits of what’s possible.
You don’t just follow industry standards—you set new ones. With a deep understanding of rotating components, thermal dynamics, and system integration, you turn complex engineering challenges into breakthrough solutions. Whether it’s designing for performance, efficiency, or manufacturability, you bring a relentless pursuit of excellence to everything you do.
Apply Now
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