Firestorm

Staff Mechanical Engineer – Propulsion

San Diego, USA · Staff+ · Full-time

Work authorization required$145k-$165kDetected 1 day ago

PythonMATLABCybersecurityProcurementSystems EngineeringMechanical DesignAerospace EngineeringElectrical EngineeringCommunicationCollaborationProblem SolvingAdaptability

About the role

This is a deeply hands-on, full-time role.
You will spend time at the test stand, in the engine cell, and on the flight line.

Responsibilities

Own development and integration of both small piston engines and micro turbojet propulsion systems, including engine selection, inlet/exhaust configuration, fuel and ignition architecture, thrust and power characterization, and ground/flight test campaigns tailored to each propulsion type.
Develop and execute engine test plans on test stands and in-flight: power and torque mapping, BSFC characterization, endurance runs, vibration surveys, and altitude/temperature performance testing.
Lead engine calibration and tuning, including AFR targets, EGT management, ignition timing, and injector strategy on EFI-equipped powerplants; identify and mitigate single-injector maldistribution and other cylinder-to-cylinder variability.
Design and analyze fuel systems-tanks, lines, pumps, filters, regulators, and fuel pressure management-across the full flight envelope, including negative-G and altitude effects.
Investigate and root-cause propulsion anomalies (RPM collapse, lean events, misfires, mechanical failures); develop structured multi-phase test plans and drive corrective action.
Develop and maintain propulsion engineering documentation: interface control documents, test plans and reports, propulsion budgets (power, fuel burn, endurance), and configuration baselines.
Partner with thermal engineering on engine cooling, exhaust routing, and heat rejection.
Partner with electrical engineering on ECU integration, sensor selection, harnessing, and telemetry.
Interface with engine OEMs, fuel system vendors, and propeller manufacturers as the technical lead for propulsion procurement and qualification.
As a Staff Propulsion Engineer at Firestorm, you will own the propulsion systems that power our sUAS platforms-from small piston and heavy-fuel engines to the fuel, induction, ignition, and exhaust architectures that surround them.

Nice to have

We welcome candidates who are local or open to relocating
relocation assistance is available and may be included in the offer package where appropriate.
Willingness to travel up to 20% domestically for testing and demonstrations This position typically operates in a standard office setting and manufacturing environment.
This role requires use of standard office equipment and the physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met to successfully perform the essential functions of the job.
Ability to sit, stand, bend, reach and move about regularly throughout the day.
Must have manual dexterity to operate standard office equipment.

Compensation

$145,000 - $165,000 USD The posted salary range reflects an estimate based on a variety of compensation factors, including but not limited to relevant experience, education, certifications, specialized skills, geographic location, and business needs.
Actual compensation may vary, and this range is subject to change as our compensation structure or market conditions evolve.
We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth.

Benefits

We offer a competitive salary, comprehensive benefits, and opportunities for career growth.
In addition to an opportunity to take part in an innovative, collaborative and fast-growing business with a highly motivated and skilled team, we also take pride in taking care of our employees.
Plus, the option to purchase additional life insurance for you and your family.
Mental Health Resources: We provide free mental health resources 24/7 including therapy and more.

Company info

At Firestorm, we are building the future of expeditionary defense manufacturing and autonomous systems.
Modern conflict has exposed a fundamental problem: the systems needed most by operators are often too expensive, too slow to produce, and too difficult to sustain at scale.
Firestorm exists to change that.
We develop mission-adaptable aerial systems and deployable manufacturing infrastructure designed to put capability directly into the hands of the warfighter.
From modular unmanned aircraft to xCell - our deployable microfactory - our goal is to make defense systems rapidly deployable, adaptable, and producible at the point of need.
We are looking for builders, operators, and problem-solvers who want to work on meaningful technology with real-world impact.
Who We Are At Firestorm, we are building the future of expeditionary defense manufacturing and autonomous systems.
Our culture fosters collaboration, respect, and trust, empowering passionate people to do their best work.

Equal opportunity

Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic under federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the CA Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.
Firestorm is committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment.
Equal Opportunity Statement Firestorm is an equal opportunity employer, committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, and upholding equitable hiring practices.

Visa & Work Authorization

Citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a U

Apply directly at Firestorm →Create a free account for alerts like this View Firestorm immigration profile

This listing is sourced directly from Firestorm's careers page and normalized into a canonical job model.