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VP of Propulsion

Los Angeles, CAFull-timeMarch 2, 2025

About the Role

Sorian Aerospace is developing next-generation aircraft, and propulsion is at the heart of that mission. We are looking for a VP of Propulsion to lead the design, development, testing, and certification of high-performance propulsion systems. This role demands deep technical expertise across turbofan, turboprop, turbojet, and advanced propulsion technologies, as well as hands-on experience operating and testing engines. This is not a hands-off leadership role. You need to have personally designed, tested, and started engines yourself. If you have that level of direct experience, this is the place for you. While not required, experience with dual propulsion systems—even at a conceptual level—is a strong advantage and will set you apart. This role reports directly to the CEO. Note: Due to the sensitive nature of our work, U.S. citizenship or permanent residency is required.

What You’ll Do

  • Lead propulsion system design from concept through certification
  • Oversee testing and validation to ensure safety, reliability, and performance
  • Personally contribute to engine development, troubleshooting, and iteration
  • Drive efficiency and manufacturability while maintaining performance targets
  • Build and mentor a world-class propulsion engineering team
  • Push the boundaries of propulsion technology to support next-generation aircraft development

What We’re Looking For

  • Extensive hands-on experience designing, testing, and operating propulsion systems
  • Direct experience starting and running jet engines
  • Deep knowledge of turbofan, turboprop, turbojet, and advanced propulsion systems
  • Proven ability to lead high-performance engineering teams
  • Experience with rapid iteration, real-world testing, and aggressive development cycles
  • Strong problem-solving mindset and willingness to challenge conventional approaches

Who You Are

  • A hands-on engineer and technical leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment
  • A problem solver who takes ownership—when something breaks, you fix it
  • Relentless in execution, iterating rapidly and learning from failures
  • Obsessed with propulsion and aerospace innovation
  • Comfortable leading small, high-agency teams where speed and impact matter more than bureaucracy

How to Apply

Send your resume and a brief description of your relevant accomplishments to propulsion@sorianaero.com.