Job Descriptions:
GENERAL JOB SUMMARY:
The Performance Engineer supports propulsion system performance analysis and validation by collecting, formatting, analyzing, and reporting test performance data across development, acceptance, and qualification programs. Reporting to the Senior Performance Engineer, this role focuses on execution and data integrity, ensuring performance results are accurate, traceable, and ready to inform engineering decisions, corrective actions, and customer deliverables.
The Performance Engineer works closely with Test Engineering, Product Engineering, Design Engineering, and Manufacturing to ensure test data is transformed into clear, reliable performance insight.
ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS
Test Data Collection & Formatting
Support engine and system testing by collecting and organizing performance data from test events
Verify test configurations, channels, units, and metadata are correctly captured
Format raw test data into structured datasets suitable for analysis and reporting
Ensure data integrity, traceability, and configuration alignment
Performance Data Analysis
Analyze test data to assess engine and system performance against expectations
Identify trends, deltas, and anomalies in measured performance
Support comparison of test results to analytical predictions and historical baselines
Assist with regression, trending, and basic statistical analysis as directed
Reporting & Visualization
Develop performance plots, charts, and tables for internal and customer use
Support creation of engine test summary reports and performance history reports
Prepare clear, concise performance content for design reviews, program reviews, and customer briefings
Ensure reports are technically accurate, well-organized, and professionally formatted
Test Correlation Support
Support correlation of analytical models to test data under direction of the Senior Performance Engineer
Assist with documenting correlation results and performance validation findings
Support refinement of assumptions and data inputs based on test outcomes
Issue Support & Root Cause Analysis
Support investigation of performance anomalies and shortfalls
Assist Senior Performance Engineer with analytical root cause efforts
Quantify impacts of design changes, process variation, or test conditions on performance results
Support verification of corrective actions through follow-on analysis
Engineering & Test Integration
Partner with Test Engineering to understand test objectives, instrumentation, and data requirements
Support interpretation of test results and data reduction activities
Ensure performance findings are fed back into Engineering, Test, and Program teams
Documentation, Configuration & Digital Thread
Maintain configuration control of performance datasets, analysis files, and reports
Ensure traceability between test data, configurations, and reported results
Support integration of performance data into PLM, test databases, and QMS as required
Ensure performance documentation is audit-ready and customer-ready
Standards, Methods & Continuous Improvement
Follow established performance analysis standards and methods
Support continuous improvement of data collection, analysis, and reporting workflows
Incorporate lessons learned into analysis practices and templates
SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITY
Required Experience:
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES
Required
Strong analytical and data-handling skills
Ability to collect, clean, and analyze complex test datasets
Proficiency in Excel (data manipulation, plotting, basic calculations)
Ability to interpret engineering data and technical documentation
Strong attention to detail and data accuracy
Clear written and verbal communication skills
Ability to manage confidential and export-controlled information (ITAR)
Preferred
Experience with propulsion systems, gas turbines, or complex mechanical systems
Familiarity with MATLAB, Python, or similar analysis tools
Basic understanding of thermodynamics and performance analysis
Experience working in AS9100-regulated environments
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE
Required
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related discipline
4+ years of experience in performance analysis, test engineering, or data analysis roles
Preferred
Experience supporting engine or system-level testing
Experience in high-mix, low-volume development and production environments
WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
Office, test cell, and manufacturing environments
Frequent interaction with test hardware and data systems
May require extended hours during test campaigns or anomaly resolution
Ability to walk test areas and production floors
May be required to lift materials, components, or equipment up to 50 lbs
TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS
- 0-20% as required to support test activities or customer reviews
THE ABOVE STATEMENTS ARE INTENDED TO DESCRIBE THE GENERAL NATURE AND LEVEL OF WORK BEING PERFORMED BY INDIVIDUALS ASSIGNED TO THIS CLASSIFICATION. THEY ARE NOT INTENDED TO BE CONSTRUED AS AN EXHAUSTIVE LIST OF ALL RESPONSIBILITIES, DUTIES AND SKILLS REQUIRED OF PERSONNEL SO CLASSIFIED.
A REVIEW OF THIS CLASSIFICATION HAS EXCLUDED THE MARGINAL FUNCTIONS OF THE CLASSIFICATION THAT ARE INCIDENTAL TO THE PERFORMANCE OF FUNDAMENTAL JOB JUTIES. ALL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES ARE ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS AND REQUIREMENTS AND ARE SUBJECT TO POSSIBLE MODIFICATION TO REASONABLY ACCOMMODATE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES TO PERFORM THIS JOB PROFICIENTLY. THE REQUIREMENTS LISTED IN THIS DOCUMENT ARE THE MINIMUM LEVELS OF KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES.
EEO/M/F/D/V
LI-Onsite
Keyword: performance analysis, engine testing, data collection, data formatting, data integrity, trend analysis, statistical analysis, reporting, visualization, correlation, root cause, Excel, MATLAB, Python
Kratos Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, pregnancy, genetic information, disability, status as a protected veteran, or any other protected category under applicable federal, state, and local laws.
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From: Kratos Defense
