Lead EPU Project Engineer

Supernal is at the forefront of creating emerging mobility solutions that will foster the development of human-centered cities. We are designing a completely new electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft tailored to the mobility needs of future cities. This allows passengers a seamless intermodal journey that safely transports them to their final destination. We fuse research in autonomy, robotics, aviation and services to define a new category of mobility for the world’s communities. We believe in creative thinking and collaboration to help build a better mobility experience for everyone, improving people’s ability to move – whether for work or play.

The Propulsion & Dynamic Systems team is responsible for design, integration, qualification, and certification of the energy storage system integration, high-voltage power distribution, electric motor, motor control electronics, drive systems, and rotor systems. The Lead EPU Project Engineer will work closely with Airframe & AIT, VMS, Flight Technology, Test & Evaluation, and the PMO teams to ensure progress and technical quality throughout the Electric Power Unit (EPU) development.

This position will be required to work on-site 5 days a week.

• Assist Electric Power Unit Manager with the completion of engineering projects and schedule deliverables
• Lead project team in the custom design and development of the Electric Power Unit (EPU). This involves leading/supervising a team of engineers specializing in drive system (gearbox) design, electric motor design, motor control unit (inverter) design, control development, and other contributing electrical sub-systems
• Delegate workload and support the EPU engineering team as required through technical and programmatic milestones
• Manage different stages of the EPU development internally as well as externally with EPU subsystem/component suppliers to ensure on-time EPU delivery
• Ensure efficient cross-collaboration between the EPU team and other teams on the program
• Own verification and validation activities and collaborate with the Test & Evaluation Team to plan, support, and conduct tests as required
• Support the Propulsion & Dynamic Systems Team in the integration of the EPU(s) into the air vehicle in the following areas: EPU to controls and rotor hub integration, EPU to airframe integration, EPU to aircraft electric system, and aircraft assembly sequence
• Work with the Assembly and Integration Team to provide prototype parts to support system level testing and engineering builds
• Lead simulation and analysis efforts to drive requirements development and decomposition, including tracking and closure of trade studies
• Work with system architecture and safety teams to develop requirements and specifications for the EPU
• Define and mature mechanical, electrical, and communication interfaces with aircraft systems to include airframe, wiring, and vehicle management systems
• Other duties as assigned

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Electrical Engineering required; Master’s degree preferred
• Minimum of ten (10) years of relevant experience working on electric powertrain system, preferably in aerospace applications such as fixed wing and helicopter aircraft (an equivalent combination of education experience may be considered)
• Familiarity with electric and/or hybrid powertrain system production processes associated with gearbox, electric motor, and motor control subsystems
• Has strong understanding of conceptual design techniques associated with gearbox, electric motor, and/or motor control sub-assemblies
• Working knowledge of EMC (electromagnetic compatibility) issues
• Knowledgeable in power converter topologies
• Must display ability to identify problems, recommend solutions, and negotiate and implement contingency plans related to electric powertrain
• Advanced knowledge of DVP&R and DFMEA
• Problem solving techniques (ex. Fish bone diagrams, Fault tree analysis, 8D, etc.)
• Proficient in using a 3D Computer Aided Design System (Catia V5, Solidworks, Solid Edge, Auto CAD or equivalent)
• Strong ability to identify and communicate risks, and drive issues to closure
• Eagerness to expand skills and knowledge into electric aviation propulsion systems
• Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail
• Must have the ability to independently prioritize and accomplish work within time constraints
• Must be able to accept personal and group responsibility and accountability for major analytical and planning assignments
• Strong teamwork skills. Able to develop consensus and move the program forward. Develop win-win situations
• Ability to lead and supervise a team
• Works well with all levels of management, including executive management, including developing effective communication pathways

• Familiarity with rotorcraft vehicle and related sub-component product development processes is preferred
• Experience with permanent magnet synchronous electric motor design and development preferred
• Experience with 500-1200 VDC systems is preferred
• Experience working with regulatory agencies is preferred
• Prior background knowledge of electric and hybrid powertrain systems preferred
• Prior knowledge of drive systems integrated with electric machines preferred

Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a background check. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other category or class protected under applicable federal, state or local law. Individuals with disabilities may request a reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation at: [email protected]

This position may include access to certain technology and/or software source code subject to U.S. export controls laws and regulations. If an export authorization from an applicable US regulatory agency is required in connection with your employment, your employment is contingent upon Supernal’s receipt of such regulatory authorization(s) and your continued compliance with all conditions and limitations pursuant to such authorization(s).