Table of Contents
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Job Overview
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About Etihad Airways
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Available Jobs and Related Roles
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Lead Propulsion Engineer Job Description
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Key Job Responsibilities
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Why This Lead Propulsion Engineer Role Stands Out
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Requirements for the Role
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How to Apply
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FAQs – Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi
Job Overview
If you are an aviation professional looking for a strategic technical role, the Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi position at Etihad Airways is an excellent opportunity. This role reports to the Manager, Engine Management and is responsible for ensuring the safe, efficient, and compliant operation of Etihad’s engine fleet.
Key details:
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Job Title: Lead Propulsion Engineer
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Company: Etihad Airways
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Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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Employment Type: Full-Time
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Function: Engineering / Engine Management
The Lead Propulsion Engineer supports the operation and maintenance of Etihad’s engines, including TRENT XWB-97, V2500, LEAP-1A, GE90, GEnx, and GP7200 (as applicable). The role is central to ensuring compliance with OEM requirements, Airworthiness Directives, and the Etihad Aircraft Maintenance Program, in line with GCAA CAR M and CAR-Ops 1 regulations.
This position is perfect for a technically strong engineer who enjoys a mix of analysis, fleet reliability, vendor management, and hands-on influence over engine maintenance strategy.
About Etihad Airways
Etihad Airways is the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, based in Abu Dhabi. Since its founding in 2003, it has grown into one of the world’s leading airlines, recognized for premium service, innovation, and a strong global network.
From its hub in Abu Dhabi, Etihad operates flights to destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, Australia, and North America. Through its codeshare partners, passengers gain access to hundreds of international destinations worldwide.
Etihad is also driving an ambitious Journey 2030 strategy, which includes plans to:
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Double its fleet size
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Triple the number of customers over the next six years
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Strengthen its position as the airline everyone wants to fly
For engineers, that means a rapidly evolving fleet, complex technical challenges, and strong opportunities for career growth in one of the most dynamic aviation markets in the world.
Available Jobs and Related Roles
If you are considering the Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi role, it helps to know the broader ecosystem of technical and operational positions at Etihad. Some similar or complementary roles currently seen within Etihad’s environment include:
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Licensed Aircraft Engineer – Abu Dhabi, Line Maintenance
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Licensed Aircraft Technician – Abu Dhabi, Line Maintenance
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Cargo Control Tower Officer (including UAEN-only positions) – Abu Dhabi, Cargo Delivery
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Cargo Contact Center & Control Tower Manager – Abu Dhabi
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Manager, Pilot Recruitment Programs – Talent Acquisition Office
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Manager Sales (Joint Ventures) – Sales and Distribution
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Ramp Team Leader (Munawala) – Ground Operations
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Captain A320 – Airbus Fleet
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Commercial Steering Officer – Aero-political Affairs Office
These roles demonstrate that Etihad offers a wide range of opportunities across engineering, flight operations, cargo, sales, and leadership.
See more aviation jobs in Abu Dhabi
Lead Propulsion Engineer Job Description
The Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi role is a senior technical support position focused on the performance, reliability, and regulatory compliance of Etihad’s aircraft engine fleet.
At its core, the role ensures:
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Cost-effective engineering support for engines
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Continuous improvement in reliability and performance
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Full compliance with OEM and regulatory requirements
You will handle the operational and maintenance aspects of multiple engine types, including TRENT XWB-97, V2500, LEAP-1A, GE90, GEnx, and GP7200. This makes the role ideal for engineers who are comfortable dealing with complex fleets and multiple OEMs.
This position is well suited for:
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Lead Engineers / Senior Engineers looking to step into airline-level engine management
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Professionals with solid aircraft engine technical support experience
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Individuals who enjoy combining data analysis, project management, and hands-on technical decision-making
Key Job Responsibilities
As a Lead Propulsion Engineer in Abu Dhabi, you will perform a wide range of responsibilities that directly impact safety, reliability, and cost control. Key responsibilities include:
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Provide cost-effective technical support
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Deliver engineering support to ensure efficient operation and maintenance of Etihad’s engine fleet.
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Optimize maintenance plans and decisions to control costs while maintaining safety and reliability.
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Program management of outsourced activities
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Manage outsourced maintenance and engineering programs with third-party providers.
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Liaise with Engine, APU, and component OEMs, as well as other service providers, to coordinate work scopes and performance.
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Investigate in-service events and reliability issues
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Coordinate investigations of in-service events and technical incidents.
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Evaluate reliability data, perform root cause analysis, and develop corrective action plans.
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Implement corrective programs to improve engine, APU, and component reliability.
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Assess Bulletins and Directives
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Review Service Bulletins (SBs) and Airworthiness Directives (ADs) related to engines, APUs, and components.
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Ensure all mandatory modifications are properly assessed, decisions documented, and related engineering orders or internal directives issued.
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Manage modification standards and engine configurations
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Control engine, APU, and component modification standards and implementation.
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Review and approve engine work-scopes with maintenance providers.
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Oversee engine shop visits and leases
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Manage engine shop visits, lease returns, and engine removal plans.
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Ensure spare engine availability and smart planning to minimize operational disruption.
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Support troubleshooting and real-time operations
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Provide troubleshooting assistance to the Maintenance Control Centre (MCC) when required.
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Review Engine Health Monitoring (EHM) reports and alerts, and issue instructions for necessary corrective actions.
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Cross-functional collaboration
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Assist departments such as Maintenance, Fleet Planning, Warranty, Contracts, and Quality with propulsion-related issues.
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Support warranty claims and contract performance tracking where propulsion is involved.
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Business cases and continuous improvement
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Produce business cases and reports for capital expenditure and modification programs.
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Manage and participate in special projects as assigned by management.
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Contribute to continuous improvement of technical and maintenance procedures.
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Why This Lead Propulsion Engineer Role Stands Out
Choosing the right Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi role can define your long-term career trajectory. This position at Etihad Airways stands out for several reasons:
1. Direct Impact on a National Airline’s Fleet
You’re not just maintaining engines; you’re shaping the performance and reliability of a national carrier’s long-haul and regional fleet. Your decisions influence operational safety, fuel efficiency, and overall customer experience.
2. Exposure to Multiple Modern Engine Types
Working with TRENT XWB-97, V2500, LEAP-1A, GE90, GEnx, and GP7200 allows you to deepen your expertise in a range of cutting-edge engine technologies. This multi-type exposure significantly boosts your profile in the global aviation market.
3. Blend of Technical and Strategic Work
The role combines engineering, data analysis, reliability, vendor management, and project leadership. You’ll be engaged in both day-to-day technical issues and long-term strategic engine management decisions.
4. Career Growth in a Growing Airline
Etihad’s Journey 2030 strategy, including plans to expand its fleet and customer base, creates strong potential for growth into senior engineering leadership roles, fleet management, or technical program management.
5. Global Aviation Hub Location
Abu Dhabi is a major aviation hub with strong infrastructure, international exposure, and a vibrant expat community. For aviation professionals, it offers a powerful combination of career opportunity and lifestyle benefits.
Requirements for the Role
To be considered for the Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi role, candidates must meet the following requirements:
Education
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Tertiary qualifications that meet eligibility requirements for membership as a chartered engineer, for example:
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Bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical Engineering
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Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering
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Alternatively, an ICAO Type II AME Licence holder with Approvals may also qualify.
Experience
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Minimum 5 years of in-service technical support of aircraft engines
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Experience supporting at least two of Etihad’s engine types (e.g., TRENT XWB-97, V2500, LEAP-1A, GE90, GEnx, GP7200)
Technical Skills
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Strong understanding of aircraft engine maintenance, performance, and reliability
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Familiarity with Service Bulletins, Airworthiness Directives, and airworthiness regulations
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Experience in root cause analysis and reliability improvement programs
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Ability to review and approve engine work-scopes and shop visit plans
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Comfort working with engine health monitoring systems and technical reports
Professional Skills
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Strong communication and coordination skills for dealing with OEMs, MROs, and internal departments
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Ability to manage outsourced maintenance programs and vendor relationships
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Strong analytical mindset and problem-solving approach
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Ability to write clear technical reports, business cases, and justification documents
Other Requirements
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Based in or willing to relocate to Abu Dhabi, UAE
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Eligible to work in the United Arab Emirates (visa/work permit as per local regulations)
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High commitment to safety, compliance, and quality standards
How to Apply
To apply for the Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi role at Etihad Airways:
Apply early
Senior technical roles like Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi attract experienced candidates from around the world, so early applications have a competitive edge.
FAQs – Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi
1. What engine types will the Lead Propulsion Engineer work on?
The role covers Etihad’s engine fleet, including TRENT XWB-97, V2500, LEAP-1A, GE90, GEnx, and GP7200, depending on operational requirements.
2. What is the minimum experience required?
You need at least 5 years of in-service technical support of aircraft engines, with experience on at least two of Etihad’s engine types.
3. Do I need to be a chartered engineer?
You need tertiary qualifications that meet eligibility for membership as a chartered engineer (for example, a bachelor’s degree in Aeronautical or Mechanical Engineering), or you should be an ICAO Type II AME Licence holder with approvals.
4. Is this role purely office-based?
No. While much of the work involves analysis, coordination, and documentation, you will also interact with maintenance operations, shop visits, and engine management activities that can involve on-site or hangar presence.
5. Can international candidates apply for the Lead Propulsion Engineer Abu Dhabi role?
Yes, international candidates with the right experience and qualifications can typically apply, provided they meet Etihad’s eligibility criteria and can obtain the necessary work permits and visas for the UAE.