Job Location : San Francisco,CA, USA
Astro Mechanica is looking for a Senior Engineer, Turbomachinery to own the design of our propulsion system's compressor section. You are a seasoned engineer with deep roots in turbomachinery and have demonstrated excellence in aerospace and/or ground based systems. While we desire a track record in compressor aerodynamics we highly value professional experience in radial compressors, inducers, impellers and gas driven turbines, especially those that have been on systems that reached orbit. Blade design, flowpath coupling, rotordynamics, drive shafts, dynamic seals and bearings are all topics you discuss with confidence gained from experience. Analysis, design, testing, and optimization for high-performance engines is what you are looking for in your next role, and you thrive at the intersection of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and real-world integration challenges. You can lead from concept through to test and iteration. You're a builder, an analyst, and a mentorequally 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.
Own the aerodynamic and mechanical design of axial compressor stages from clean-sheet to flight-ready hardware
Run compressor design trade studies across a wide operating envelope, balancing performance, operability, and structural integrity
Validate compressor design through test campaign execution, selection, and placement of instrumentation for performance calculations and spectral analysis
Analyze test data and integrate findings into system-level performance models and next-gen hardware design cycles
Develop, validate, and iterate computational models using StarCCM+, AxSTREAM, and other in-house tools
Utilize propulsion cycle models (GasTurb, NPSS) to predict engine performance from compressor maps
Evaluate turbomachinery 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 stackup, fitment, and non-contacting seal clearances
Specify manufacturing methods for high-performance, precision turbomachinery components, enabling rapid iteration with cost-effective processes
Influence the broader propulsion and aircraft system architecture with innovative compressor design solutions
5+ years of experience in turbomachinery analysis/design, with a focus on high mass flowrate compressors and advanced fan systems preferred
Proven track record of blade geometry development using CFD, streamline curvature, and 1D meanline methods
Familiarity with test instrumentation, data reduction, and anchoring analysis with experimental results
Deep understanding of propulsion system integration, thermodynamics, rotordynamics, and turbomachinery
Demonstrated history of innovation, technical authorship, and real-world test experience
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
Skilled in engine cycle modeling tools (GasTurb, NPSS) and scripting tools (Python, Matlab) for analysis automation and data processing
Effective communicator capable of leading cross-functional design reviews and contributing to system architecture discussions
Flexibility to work in fast-paced environment
Attentive to detail and maintain a high level of quality and ownership in all work
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 Astro Mechanica swag
At Astro Mechanica, we highly value in-office work to foster collaboration and strengthen our company culture. We consider working in the office five days a week an essential part of the employee's role.
Astro Mechanica is an equal opportunity employer. We proudly recruit and hire a diverse workforce and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.