Role Overview
The Systems Performance Analyst will sit within our Advanced Technical Programs (ATP) organization, where teams work at the leading edge of technology development to solve complex problems and rapidly mature new propulsion concepts. This role will focus on engine and system performance analysis across early-stage architecture studies, cycle modeling, fluid system analysis, and test data interpretation.
The ideal candidate brings strong performance fundamentals, is fluent in Python, and can quickly work through design trade space using available cycle models and analytical tools. They should be comfortable evaluating engine architectures, modifying performance models, analyzing test data, and supporting 1D network modeling of fluid systems. This role is best suited for someone who is technically sharp, highly self-directed, and comfortable operating in ambiguity without requiring heavy oversight.
They should be able to work effectively with adjacent disciplines, including combustion, while applying sound engineering judgment to problems involving thermodynamics, operability, and system behavior. This is a hands-on analytical role for someone who enjoys moving quickly, solving real problems, and helping translate advanced concepts into viable propulsion solutions.
What You'll Do...
- Develop, adapt, and apply engine cycle and system performance models to evaluate advanced propulsion concepts and architecture trade space
- Use Python-based tools and available cycle models to rapidly explore design options, including high-Mach operating space and evolving system requirements
- Perform 1D performance calculations and support fluid system network modeling to assess system behavior, operability, and integration risks
- Analyze test data to evaluate engine and subsystem performance, identify issues, and inform design direction
- Support planning for component and system testing by helping define performance objectives, required data, instrumentation needs, and analysis approaches
- Work closely with mechanical design, combustion, and other engineering disciplines to evaluate system interactions and support balanced design decisions
- Contribute to early-stage concept development by translating ambiguous technical questions into structured analyses and actionable recommendations
- Communicate technical findings, risks, assumptions, and tradeoffs clearly to cross-functional stakeholders
- Document methods, models, analyses, and lessons learned in a way that supports broader engineering understanding and reuse
You have...
- Bachelor's degree
- 12 + years of experience in propulsion or gas turbine performance analysis
- Experience supporting propulsion development programs in early-stage or advanced development environments
- Experience working with experimental data, test planning, or performance validation activities
- Experience with thermodynamic cycle analysis, 1D calculations, and architecture trade studies
- Strong Python capability, including the ability to modify and use analytical models efficiently
- Experience analyzing test data and using results to guide technical decisions
- Ability to perform or support 1D network modeling of fluid systems
- Strong understanding of thermodynamics, engine system behavior, and performance interactions across subsystems
- Familiarity with operability, transient behavior, and system-level performance considerations
- Comfort working with combustion-related concepts and cross-functional teams
- Ability to work effectively in loosely defined, fast-moving development environments
- Strong problem-solving skills, sound technical judgment, and the ability to move work forward independently
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
- The ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. government issues security clearance is required. U.S. Citizenship is required, as only U.S. Citizens are eligible for a security clearance
Nice to have...