Entry Level Propulsion Engineer Jobs in Virginia

By Light Professional IT Services LLC is a leading provider of innovative technology solutions supporting the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, and commercial customers. Our Unmanned Systems team develops, integrates, and supports advanced small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) for defense, security, and commercial applications.

We are seeking a motivated UAS Supply Chain/Logistics Support Specialist to join our Virginia Beach team. This entry-level position is ideal for someone with an interest in drones, technology, logistics, and engineering support who enjoys working in a fast-paced environment supporting the development of next-generation unmanned aircraft systems.

The UAS Supply Chain/Logistics Support Specialist serves as the primary interface between the engineering, production, and purchasing teams. This individual will help ensure the right components are available when needed by managing inventory, supporting procurement activities, tracking parts, and assisting engineers with identifying and sourcing components for current and future UAS programs.

The ideal candidate is organized, detail-oriented, technically curious, and interested in learning about unmanned aircraft systems and their components.

• Maintain accurate inventory records for sUAS components, assemblies, tools, and consumables.
• Monitor inventory levels and identify shortages before they impact production schedules.
• Prepare and submit purchase requests for engineering and production materials.
• Coordinate with vendors and internal purchasing personnel to track procurement status and delivery schedules.
• Support engineers in identifying and sourcing commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components.
• Assist with receiving, inspecting, labeling, and organizing incoming materials.
• Maintain Bills of Material (BOMs) and component documentation.
• Track component usage across engineering projects and production builds.
• Support configuration management and material accountability processes.
• Assist with prototype builds and light assembly activities as needed.
• Maintain an organized stockroom and component storage area.
• Perform periodic inventory audits and reconcile discrepancies.
• Support continuous process improvement initiatives related to inventory management and procurement.
• Primarily office and laboratory environment.
• Occasional warehouse and production floor activities.
• Occasional travel may be required (less than 20%).

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• 1+ years of experience in inventory management, purchasing, logistics, warehouse operations, manufacturing support, or a related field.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable working with spreadsheets and inventory tracking software.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work on-site in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

• Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Engineering Technology, Aviation, or a related field.
• Experience working with small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS), robotics, or other technical hardware.
• Experience supporting engineering or manufacturing organizations.
• 1 year documented experience with Deltek Costpoint.
• Familiarity with Bills of Material (BOMs).
• Experience with procurement or purchasing processes.
• FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate.
• Familiarity with common UAS components such as flight controllers, radios, GPS modules, batteries, propulsion systems, and payloads.
• Experience using Microsoft Excel and ERP or inventory management systems.

• Strong problem-solving skills.

• Self-starter with the ability to work independently.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work across multiple teams.

• Interest in aviation, robotics, or unmanned systems.

• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.

• Willingness to learn new technologies and processes.

• Positive attitude and commitment to supporting team success.

• Must be authorized to work in the United States.
• Ability to successfully complete a pre-employment background screening.
• No security clearance is required for this position.

Salary Minimum: $50,000

Salary Maximum: $65,000

The annual base salary provided is a guideline for this position and is not a guarantee of compensation or salary. When extending an offer, By Light also considers other variables such as (but not limited to) work experience, education, training, skill set, internal peer equity, clearance level, and market conditions. In addition, By Light provides an extensive selection of benefits and offerings to our employees.

• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.