Physical Sciences Inc. · 5 months ago
Propulsion Engineer – Hypersonic Systems
Physical Sciences Inc., an employee-owned company located in Andover MA, is seeking a highly skilled Propulsion Engineer with expertise in hypersonic propulsion systems. The role involves both analytical and experimental work to support the development, testing, and optimization of next-generation air-breathing propulsion systems for high-speed flight vehicles.
Research
Responsibilities
Design, analyze, and optimize air-breathing hypersonic propulsion systems including scramjets, RDEs, and high-speed turbines
Perform CFD, thermodynamic cycle analysis, and combustion modeling to evaluate system performance across flight regimes (Mach 4–10+)
Collaborate with test teams to plan and execute ground and flight tests; analyze post-test data and correlate with models
Work with materials, thermal management, and structural teams to ensure propulsion system survivability and reliability in extreme environments
Participate in engine hardware development, including injector design, isolator and combustor development, and nozzle configuration
Support conceptual and preliminary design phases for high-speed vehicles
Prepare technical reports, documentation, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders, including government customers
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or related field (Master's or Ph.D. preferred)
4–10 years of relevant experience in hypersonic propulsion systems
Hands-on experience with scramjet, rotating detonation engines, and/or high Mach gas turbines
Proficiency with tools such as ANSYS Fluent, CFX, CFD++, NPSS, Cantera, or in-house solvers
Deep understanding of compressible flow, high-temperature gas dynamics, and combustion physics
Strong background in propulsion system integration and thermal/structural coupling
Preferred
Experience with high-enthalpy test facilities, shock tunnels, or direct-connect rigs
Familiarity with high-speed vehicle integration (airframe-propulsion interactions)
Exposure to DoD, NASA, or DARPA hypersonic programs
Active security clearance or ability to obtain one
Company
Physical Sciences Inc.
For over 50 years, PSI has provided technology solutions and innovative products to our government and commercial customers.