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Propeller Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Propeller information

See Reston, VA salary details

$29.1K

$178.6K

$358.9K

How much do propeller jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for propeller in Reston, VA is $178,578.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $129,500.00 and $210,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Propeller Engineer, and why are they important?

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 job?

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 are propellers and what do they 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.

Infographic showing various Propeller job openings in Reston, VA as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $178,578 per year, or $85.9 per hour.
Site Quality and Product Safety Management Leader

Site Quality and Product Safety Management Leader

GE Aerospace

Sterling, VA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 17 hours ago


GE Aerospace rating

8.8

Company rating: 8.8 out of 10

Based on 171 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

6th of 59 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Description Summary
At Dowty Propellers, a GE Aerospace Company, you'll join a growing business with career development opportunities by helping ensure the safety and reliability of critical propulsion systems that keep aircraft flying every day. You'll join a global aerospace leader with a strong safety and quality culture, proven lean practices, and a commitment to continuous improvement. We offer the opportunity to make a direct impact on flight safety in a highly regulated environment, while developing your career through access to GE Aerospace's training, expertise, and broader career paths. In Sterling, you'll work in a close knit MRO team with the backing, stability, and benefits of a world class aerospace organization.
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. Reporting to the Global Quality Compliance & SMS Leader, this role is responsible for leading the site's management systems to ensure the highest levels of product quality, safety, and regulatory compliance for propeller maintenance, repair, and overhaul operations. The role is the site focal for product safety and airworthiness and plays a key part in driving a strong culture of quality, safety, and continuous improvement.
Job Description
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 escalate issues 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.

GE Aerospace offers comprehensive benefits and programs to support your health and, along with programs like HealthAhead, your physical, emotional, financial and social wellbeing. Healthcare benefits include medical, dental, vision, and prescription drug coverage; access to a Health Coach from GE Aerospace; and the Employee Assistance Program, which provides 24/7 confidential assessment, counseling and referral services. Retirement benefits include the GE Aerospace Retirement Savings Plan, a 401(k) savings plan with company matching contributions and company retirement contributions, as well as access to Fidelity resources and planning consultants. Other benefits include tuition assistance, adoption assistance, paid parental leave, disability insurance, life insurance, and paid time-off for vacation or illness.
GE Aerospace (General Electric Company or the Company) and its affiliates each sponsor certain employee benefit plans or programs (i.e., is a "Sponsor"). Each Sponsor reserves the right to terminate, amend, suspend, replace or modify its benefit plans and programs at any time and for any reason, in its sole discretion. No individual has a vested right to any benefit under a Sponsor's welfare benefit plan or program. This document does not create a contract of employment with any individual.
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 (i.e., a protected individual under the Immigration and Naturalization Act, 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).
Additional Information
GE Aerospace offers a great work environment, professional development, challenging careers, and competitive compensation. 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).
Relocation Assistance Provided: Yes

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