Senior Engineer – Hybrid Power Plant Integration

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 January 2024.
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

• Serve as the architecture owner for the hybrid power plant, overseeing the design and integration of the IC engine into the Helix.
• Develop and execute a technology demonstrator to validate the integration of the IC engine.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure seamless integration of fuel systems, engine controls, and performance optimization.
• Conduct testing and validation of engine 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.
• 5+ years of experience in aerospace engineering, mechanical engineering, or related fields with a focus on power plant systems.
• Strong understanding of IC engine design, fuel systems, and control integration.
• Experience with hybrid systems and their architecture, particularly in aviation applications.
• Proficiency in engineering tools and software for modeling and analysis.

Bonus Qualifications

• Previous experience with aircraft certification processes and validation of hybrid systems.
• Knowledge of relevant safety and regulatory standards for aircraft engine integration.

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.

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.