Senior Engineer – Hybrid Power Systems
Palo Alto, CA
Powertrain /
Full-time /
On-site
Pivotal is the leader in the emerging market of electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. We design, develop, and manufacture light eVTOL aircraft and are renowned for the BlackFly, the first light eVTOL to fly manned missions and enter the consumer market.
Efficient, compact, and simple, Pivotal vehicles are designed for a wide range of consumer, public service, and defense applications. Our distinctive tilt-aircraft architecture and scalable platform have been in development, preparing to enter the market for over 10 years. We recently announced our next-generation aircraft, the Helix, planned for general release and scalable production in early 2025.
Mobility is one of the most highly-valued areas of technology investment today. This is the right company, in the right space, the right strategy, at the right time. We invite you to join our amazing team and grow with us.
About the job
Pivotal is at the forefront of the electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (eVTOL) market, recognized for pioneering advancements in aircraft design and technology. As we prepare for the Helix’s platform development roadmap, we are looking for a Senior Engineer to lead the integration of an internal combustion (IC) engine into the hybrid power plant for the Helix aircraft platform.
Responsibilities
- You will contribute to and oversee the design and integration of alternative energy systems potentially including traditional combustion engines, turbomachinery, and/or fuel cells technology into the aircrafts power and propulsion subsystems
- Achieve outcomes that support market leading total energy efficiency and reliability
- Develop and execute progressive technology development and demonstrations to show integration of appropriate hybrid power systems while meeting business goals
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of fuel systems, engine controls, and performance optimization into vehicle management software stack
- Define and conduct testing and validation of power system performance and integration, providing technical insights and recommendations
- Support the development of documentation and reporting for regulatory compliance and internal reviews
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a related field
- Demonstrated experience selecting, developing and implementing subsystem solutions with third party technology partners and suppliers. This leader should possess strong business acumen and ability to lead technically. Should be able to manage a third party’s technical performance and relationship with the company while collaborating and assisting peer(s) in the management of the commercial relationship aspects
- 5+ years of experience in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields with substantial experience in internal combustion or turbine engine technology
- Strong understanding of various piston-type and turbine based combustion power systems and supporting knowledge of related fuel systems, controls implementation and hazard mitigation
- Demonstrated success as a subsystem owner in implementing designs or technology from the concept stage to production stage, inclusive of successful manufacturing transition
- Proficiency in appropriate engineering and software tools for modeling and analysis
Bonus Qualifications
- Advanced engineering degree(s) and / or MBA are a plus
- Ideally, experience would include piston or turbine based engines on a relatively small scale for nonstationary applications where weight, efficiency, safety, portability, supportability and reliability were significant design goals
- Experience implementing nonstationary alternative hybrid power systems beyond traditional IC or turbine-based combustion systems such as H2 and/or solid oxide fuel cells systems or alternate fuels combustion technology such as H2 and multifuel engines. Ideally this experience was in an aerospace environment, alternatively in an automotive environment
- Previous experience with aircraft certification processes and validation of hybrid systems
- Advanced knowledge of relevant safety and regulatory standards for aircraft power systems and APU/combustion systems
Personal Attributes
- Problem-solver with a passion for innovation in aircraft technology
- Detail-oriented with a strong work ethic and commitment to quality
- Effective communicator with the ability to work collaboratively across teams
$82,500 - $206,500 a year
The salary range for this role is reflected in Pivotal's Pay Structure - Pay Bands (PB) 13-17.
Applicants must be eligible for employment in the United States and willing to work onsite at our HQ office in Palo Alto, CA.
Pivotal offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, and 401k plans.
Pivotal is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Pivotal does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
