AD&D Engineer Principal - Mechanical Systems and Powerplants

Job SummaryThe AD&D Engineer Principal - Mechanical Systems and Powerplants is a visionary and hands-on engineer responsible for driving the early-stage development of new and innovative aircraft, systems, or powerplant development projects within the Cirrus Advanced Design and Development (AD&D) department. This position will focus on the initial phases of aircraft development-ideation, hypothesis generation, stakeholder engagement, technology maturation, and conceptual design.Duties and Responsibilities/Essential FunctionsLead the development of Mechanical Systems and Powerplants from ideation thru conceptual design and into practical product paths - including but not limited to piston engines, turbine engines, pneumatic systems, hydraulic systems, fuel systems, environmental control systems, and kinematic systemsProvide guidance to technical professionals, making quick, sound engineering decisions with limited dataGenerate and test hypotheses through hands-on prototyping, simulation, and evaluation, with minimal supervisionCreate and manage development plans focused on early-stage exploration, requirements capture, and concept validationEngineer and refine requirements and objectives through stakeholder engagement and iterative experimentationTranslate verbal direction and vision into actionable design objectives and development strategiesCollaborate directly with pilots, mechanics, and experimental technicians, as well as external stakeholders such as Product Development, Certification, and Production teamsFoster a culture of rapid prototyping, testing, and iteration, learning from both success and failureCommunicate complex ideas effectively and efficiently to diverse audiencesTravel up to 25% may be requiredQualificationsTo perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential function satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering (or related STEM discipline)10+ years of experience in aviation, aerospace, or advanced product developmentBroad technical skillset related to aircraft, with strong understanding of mechanical systems and powerplantsPrevious early product development experience - from a clean sheet to working prototypesProven track record of producing results when developing new designs or productsWillingness to take smart risks, accept accountability, and fix mistakesDemonstrated ability to lead small technical teams and manage early development projectsIntrinsic motivation to drive progress - to explore, challenge, and innovate - and to minimize administrative overheadExperienced in iterative development cycles, with a strong ability to identify non-viable solutions early and reorient technical strategy quicklyStrong hands-on skills in prototyping, simulation, and testing.Comfortable operating under tight deadlines with minimal direction and in a shop or lab environmentProficient in creating engineering design definition - 3D models, 2D drawings, sketches, schematics, BOMsExcellent verbal and written communication skills, with fluency in EnglishPreferred qualificationsMaster's degree in related discipline.Previous aircraft development program experience, from early concepts to entry into servicePrevious experience leading Integrated Product Teams or similar technical teamsPrivate pilot certificate or personal aviation experienceFamiliarity with system safety and system development standards (e.g., ARP4754A, ARP4761)Familiarity with PTC products (e.g. CREO, Windchill)Familiarity with Mathworks products (e.g. Matlab, Simulink)Familiarity with Atlassian products (e.g. Jira, Confluence)Proficient in at least one coding languageExperience with FAA certification processes and standards (e.g. Part 23, Part 27, Advisory Circulars, Industry Consensus Standards)Experience in cross-disciplinary system integration and trade studiesDemonstrated ability to communicate, negotiate, and collaborate effectively across all levels of an organization, from the shop floor to the C-suiteBonus points if your weekends involve flying, plane spotting, or building RC aircraftCompetenciesTo perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:Strategic Thinking & Decision MakingCross-functional LeadershipRisk & Opportunity ManagementStakeholder Engagement & CommunicationConflict ManagementResiliency & AdaptabilityOther DutiesPlease note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this position. Duties, responsibilities and activities may change at any time with or without notice. Work beyond 40 hours per week may be required.Cirrus is dedicated to a drug free work environment promoting equal employment opportunity. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, sex, national origin, color, age, disability, religion, pregnancy, veteran status, marital and family status, sexual orientation, receipt of public assistance, genetic information or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.