Principal Systems Engineer, Aircraft Simulation and Design Integration

What the role needs

• Own the architecture, development, and validation of integrated aircraft simulations.
• Use simulation to guide aircraft configuration, subsystem sizing, requirements, and design trade studies.
• Integrate aerodynamic, structural, propulsion, electrical, mass-properties, controls, and mission-performance models.
• Lead multidisciplinary design optimization and sensitivity analyses.
• Quantify design margins, uncertainty, risk, and system-level impacts of proposed changes.
• Define simulation fidelity requirements appropriate to each phase of development.
• Establish model verification, validation, configuration-management, and documentation practices.
• Correlate simulation results with component tests, ground tests, and flight-test data.
• Develop representative mission profiles and evaluate aircraft performance across expected operating conditions.
• Identify system interactions, integration risks, and performance constraints early in the design cycle.
• Present recommendations and trade-offs to technical leadership and program stakeholders.
• Mentor engineers and establish best practices for simulation-driven aircraft development.

From the employer

About Mach Industries Founded in 2023, Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 350 employees, we operate with startup agility and ambition. Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting-edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security. The Role We are seeking a Principal Systems Engineer to lead the use of modeling and simulation throughout the aircraft design process. This person will develop integrated aircraft-level simulations, evaluate design alternatives, and translate analysis into clear engineering decisions. The role requires close collaboration with the aerodynamics, structures, propulsion, electrical, controls, and vehicle systems teams. The ideal candidate combines strong technical depth in aircraft simulation with the leadership and communication skills needed to drive multidisciplinary design decisions. Key Responsibilities Own the architecture, development, and validation of integrated aircraft simulations. Use simulation to guide aircraft configuration, subsystem sizing, requirements, and design trade studies. Integrate aerodynamic, structural, propulsion, electrical, mass-properties, controls, and mission-performance models. Lead multidisciplinary design optimization and sensitivity analyses. Quantify design margins, uncertainty, risk, and system-level impacts of proposed changes. Define simulation fidelity requirements appropriate to each phase of development. Establish model verification, validation, configuration-management, and documentation practices. Correlate simulation results with component tests, ground tests, and flight-test data. Develop representative mission profiles and evaluate aircraft performance across expected operating conditions. Identify system interactions, integration risks, and performance constraints early in the design cycle. Present recommendations and trade-offs to technical leadership and program stakeholders. Mentor engineers and establish best practices for simulation-driven aircraft development. Support requirements development, architecture reviews, design reviews, and certification activities. Required Qualifications Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, electrical, systems engineering, or a related discipline. Significant experience developing or applying aircraft-level models and simulations. Strong understanding of aircraft performance, flight mechanics, dynamics and multidisciplinary system interactions. Experience integrating models from aerodynamics, structures, propulsion,electrical, controls, or thermal disciplines. Proficiency with simulation and analysis tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, Python, C/C++, or equivalent platforms. Experience conducting trade studies, parameter sweeps, sensitivity analyses, uncertainty quantification, or optimization. Demonstrated ability to convert simulation results into actionable aircraft, design recommendations. Experience with model verification, validation, test correlation, and configuration control. Strong technical leadership and cross-functional communication skills. Preferred Qualifications Master's degree or Ph.D. in aerospace engineering, systems engineering, or a related field. Experience with electric, hybrid-electric, autonomous, or advanced aircraft. Knowledge of multidisciplinary design analysis and optimization methods. Experience with hardware-in-the-loop, software-in-the-loop, or pilot-in-the-loop simulation. Familiarity with model-based systems engineering and tools such as SysML. Experience supporting aircraft certification, safety analysis, or flight-test programs. Familiarity with CFD, finite-element analysis, propulsion-cycle modeling, electrical-network modeling, or reduced-order modeling. Experience developing digital engineering frameworks or aircraft digital twins. ITAR Requirements To conform to U.S. Government export regulations, applicant must be a (i) U.S. citizen or national, (ii) U.S. lawful, permanent resident (aka green card holder), (iii) Refugee under 8 U.S.C. § 1157, or (iv) Asylee under 8 U.S.C. § 1158, or be eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State. Learn more about the ITAR here . Principal Engineer $180,000 — $250,000 USD At Mach, we believe that compensation is more than just a paycheck. It's a comprehensive package designed to reward the time, skills, and expertise you bring to our team. We are committed to offering competitive compensation that is equitable, transparent, and aligned with market trends. Key Elements of Our Compensation Philosophy: Competitive Salaries : We continuously research market rates to ensure our salaries are competitive with those in our industry and geographic location. Performance-Based Incentives : Our bonus structure is tied to both individual and company performance, creating a win-win scenario that motivates our team members to excel. Equity Participation : We offer stock options or equity to employees, ensuring that you share in the success and growth of the company. Benefit Packages : Our benefits include healthcare, dental and vision plans, retirement savings, and paid time off, because we understand that your well-being extends beyond the office. Professional Development : We allocate funds for continuing education, training, and career growth. Transparency : We are committed to openness about our compensation tiers and how decisions are made, ensuring trust and mutual respect. By joining Mach, you’re not just accepting a job—you’re becoming a key part of a team that values your contributions and invests in your growth. Together, we aim to create a rewarding environment that sets the stage for long-term success. Data Privacy To view Mach Industries candidate data privacy policy, please visit https://machindustries.com/privacy-policy . Disclosures This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license. Mach participates in E-Verify and will provide the federal government with your Form I-9 information to confirm that you are authorized to work in the U.S. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach’s total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development. Mach is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace. All qualified applicants will be treated with respect and receive equal consideration for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, uniform service, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic per federal, state, or local law, including those with a criminal history, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws. If you’d like to defend the American way of life, please reach out!