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Propeller Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Aerospace Quality Leader

Sterling, VA · On-site

$102K - $136K/yr

Experience with propeller systems or rotating components and their repair/overhaul. * Familiarity with GE Aerospace or Dowty Propellers processes and digital quality systems. The base pay range for ...

Summary The Sterling Mechanic Assistant will be a team contributor to the repair and overhaul of composite propeller systems. In this role, you will assist in the assembly, disassembly, and repair of ...

Summary The Sterling Mechanic Assistant will be a team contributor to the repair and overhaul of composite propeller systems. In this role, you will assist in the assembly, disassembly, and repair of ...

Propeller information

See Washington salary details

$31.7K

$194.4K

$390.7K

How much do propeller jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for propeller in Washington is $194,412.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $141,000.00 and $229,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a propeller engineer?

To thrive as a Propeller Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with expertise in fluid dynamics and propulsion systems, often supported by a relevant engineering degree. Familiarity with CAD software, finite element analysis tools, and industry standards like ISO or FAA regulations is typically required. Strong problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective teamwork skills set top performers apart in this field. These skills ensure safe, efficient, and innovative propeller designs that meet industry and regulatory requirements.

What is a propeller?

A Propeller job typically refers to a role within a company named Propeller or a position related to propeller design, maintenance, or operation in industries like aviation or marine engineering. Responsibilities may include inspecting, repairing, and optimizing propellers for efficiency and safety. Some roles also involve working with aerodynamic or hydrodynamic principles to design propellers for aircraft or watercraft. The specific duties depend on the industry and company employing the individual.

What are some typical challenges faced by propeller engineers in the aviation industry?

Propeller engineers often encounter challenges such as meeting strict safety and regulatory standards, optimizing designs for both performance and fuel efficiency, and troubleshooting vibration or noise issues in various operating conditions. They frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, including aerodynamics specialists and manufacturing engineers, to refine designs and resolve technical issues. Balancing innovative solutions with cost and production constraints is another common aspect of the role.

What do propellers do?

Propellers are mechanical devices with blades that rotate to generate thrust, most commonly used in airplanes, boats, and drones. By spinning, they push air or water backwards, which moves the vehicle forward according to Newton's third law of motion. Propellers are essential for providing propulsion and maneuverability in various types of vehicles and machinery. Their design, size, and materials can vary depending on the application and the type of vehicle in which they are used.

What is the difference between Propeller vs Drone Operator?

AspectPropellerDrone Operator
Required CertificationsFAA Part 107 certification (for commercial use)FAA Part 107 certification (for commercial use)
Work EnvironmentConstruction sites, manufacturing, logisticsSurveillance, filming, inspection in various locations
Industry UsageTransportation, logistics, manufacturingMedia, surveillance, inspection

Propeller professionals typically focus on the design, manufacturing, or maintenance of propeller systems used in various industries. Drone Operators, on the other hand, pilot drones for tasks like filming, inspection, or surveillance. While both roles may require FAA Part 107 certification and share some work environments, Propeller roles are more technical and manufacturing-oriented, whereas Drone Operators are more operational and field-based.

What are popular job titles related to Propeller jobs in Washington? For Propeller jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Propeller jobs in Washington look for? The top searched job categories for Propeller jobs in Washington are:
What cities in Washington are hiring for Propeller jobs? Cities in Washington with the most Propeller job openings:
Infographic showing various Propeller job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 95% Full Time, 2% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $194,412 per year, or $93.5 per hour.

Aerospace Quality Leader

IF1139 GE Aviation Systems LLC

Sterling, VA • On-site

$90 - $130/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 3 days ago


Job description

Job Summary

Dowty Propellers, a GE Aerospace Company, is seeking a Site Quality & Product Safety (SMS) Leader for our FAA Part 145 approved MRO facility in Sterling, Virginia. This role will lead the site’s management systems to ensure the highest levels of product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance for propeller maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations.

Roles and Responsibilities
  • Lead the site Management System (SMS/QMS) to maintain compliance with FAA Part 145 and AS9100D/AS9110C standards.
  • Own audit readiness and host internal, customer, regulatory, and third‑party audits; drive timely closure of findings.
  • Manage approvals and certifications, including FAA and customer approvals, document control, and configuration management.
  • Act as the site focal for product safety and airworthiness, ensuring safety is embedded in all MRO processes.
  • Monitor and report key quality and product safety metrics, and drive structured problem‑solving and continuous improvement initiatives.
  • Lead investigations of quality escapes and safety events, including root cause analysis and corrective/preventive actions.
  • Lead and develop management system maturity, fostering a strong culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement at the site.
  • Support site daily management using GE Aerospace Flight Deck Regulatory and quality mindset with strong attention to detail and documentation rigor.
  • Structured problem solver, comfortable using data and quality tools to identify and address risks and trends.
  • Influential leader and communicator, able to work across functions and at all levels of the organization.
  • High integrity and courage, willing to stop work or escape risks when safety or compliance is at risk.
  • Customer‑focused, with a strong sense of responsibility for the safety and reliability of products in service.
Minimum Required Qualifications
  • Bachelor’s Degree from an accredited college or university (or a high school diploma / GED with a minimum of 4 years of Engineering, Aviation Maintenance, Quality, or related technical field; or equivalent aerospace/MRO experience) + Minimum of 3 years of Engineering, Aviation Maintenance, Quality, or related technical field; or equivalent aerospace/MRO experience.
Preferred Qualifications
  • Significant experience in aviation maintenance or aerospace manufacturing/MRO, preferably in an FAA regulated environment.
  • Proven quality management experience (audits, nonconformance management, CAPA).
  • Working knowledge of FAA Part 145 regulations and AS9100D/AS9110C standards.
  • Proficiency with quality tools and methods (e.g., root cause analysis, FMEA, risk assessment).
  • ASQ or similar professional certifications (e.g., CQE, CQM/OE) or Lead Auditor qualification (AS9100/AS9110).
  • Prior leadership experience in quality, product safety, or regulatory compliance.
  • Experience with propeller systems or rotating components and their repair/overhaul.
  • Familiarity with GE Aerospace or Dowty Propellers processes and digital quality systems.
Benefits
  • Healthcare benefits: medical, dental, vision, prescription drug coverage; access to a Health Coach and Employee Assistance Program.
  • Retirement benefits: GE Aerospace Retirement Savings Plan, 401(k) with company matching and contributions, access to Fidelity resources and planning consultants.
  • Other benefits: tuition assistance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, paid time‑off for vacation or illness.
  • Relocation assistance provided.
EEO Statement

GE Aerospace is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by law. GE Aerospace will only employ those who are legally authorized to work in the United States for this opening. Any offer of employment is conditioned upon the successful completion of a drug screen (as applicable).

Additional Information

This role requires access to U.S. export‑controlled information. Therefore, employment will be contingent upon the ability to prove that you meet the status of a U.S. Person as one of the following: U.S. lawful permanent resident, U.S. Citizen, have been granted asylee or refugee status.

Relocation Assistance Provided: Yes.

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