Amentum

DARPA Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer SETA

Amentum$175K — $195K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field; minimum 7 years of experience.
  • Experience in spacecraft propulsion design (chemical, electrical, or nuclear).
  • Demonstrated technical leadership experience.
  • Ability to provide solutions in dynamic environments.
  • Familiarity with classical systems engineering processes.
  • Ability to identify and resolve program execution risks.
  • Active US Government TS/SCI Clearance required.

Responsibilities

  • Serve as a primary support contractor to DARPA Program Managers and integrated product teams.
  • Provide technical leadership and expertise in spacecraft propulsion.
  • Perform independent assessments of new technologies and system designs.
  • Support the identification and implementation of new program concepts.
  • Assist in testing efforts, including preparing experiment/test plans.
  • Translate requirements into research and development objectives.
  • Support technical interchange meetings and design reviews.

Benefits

  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
  • Educational reimbursement
  • Parental leave
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Tax-saving options
  • Disability and life insurance
  • Pet insurance
Full Job Description


Amentum is currently seeking talented, enthusiastic, and dynamic individuals to support DARPA in formulating, monitoring, and transitioning advanced research and development programs to the U.S. military in multiple areas, including spacecraft propulsion.

This is a full-time position based in Arlington, VA with the opportunity for remote work.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Serve as a primary support contractor to DARPA Program Managers, DARPA leadership, performers, integrated product teams (IPTs), and the research and development communities across industry, academia, and the Government.
  • Provide technical leadership and subject matter expertise in spacecraft propulsion.
  • Perform independent technical assessments of new technologies and system designs, including evaluation of alternatives, trade studies, and cost-benefit analyses.
  • Provide support in identifying and implementing new program concepts.
  • Support testing efforts, including the preparation of experiment/test plans and coordination with teammates, customers and stakeholders.
  • Identify and translate requirements into technology research and development objectives.
  • Support technical interchange meetings and design reviews.
  • Author program briefings and technical reports.
  • Provide program management and acquisition support.
  • Foster a culture of innovation and technical excellence.


Required Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field and a minimum of 7 years of experience.
  • Demonstrated experience in spacecraft propulsion design (chemical, electrical, or nuclear) for commercial or defense-related technology research and/or development programs.
  • Demonstrated technical leadership experience.
  • Ability to provide practical and creative solutions in a dynamic work environment, while working effectively with a team.
  • Familiarity with classical systems engineering processes and procedures.
  • Ability to quickly identify and resolve program execution risks, mitigations, and issues.
  • Candidates should be self-starters capable of working both independently and as part of a team.
  • Must have an Active US Government TS/SCI Clearance. Note: US Citizenship is required to obtain a Government TS/SCI Clearance.


Desired Qualifications:
  • Master's degree or PhD.
  • Military and/or Government program support experience.
  • Demonstrated ability to quickly identify and resolve program execution risks, mitigations, and issues.
  • Candidates should be self-starters capable of working both independently and as part of a team.


Compensation Details:
$175K-$195K

The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview:

Our health and welfare benefits are designed to support you and your priorities. Offerings include:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Paid time off and holidays
  • Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
  • Educational reimbursement
  • Parental leave
  • Employee stock purchase plan
  • Tax-saving options
  • Disability and life insurance
  • Pet insurance


Note: Benefits may vary based on employment type, location, and applicable agreements. Positions governed by a Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), the McNamara-O'Hara Service Contract Act (SCA), or other employment contracts may include different provisions/benefits.

Original Posting:
04/15/2026 - Until Filled
Amentum anticipates this job requisition will remain open for at least three days, with a closing date no earlier than three days after the original posting. This timeline may change based on business needs.

About Amentum

Amentum is a leading provider of engineering and technical services to the U.S. government and commercial customers worldwide. The company offers a wide range of services, including environmental remediation, facilities management, and logistics and supply chain management, among others. Amentum has a global presence, with operations in over 20 countries, and serves a diverse range of customers, including the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, and the Department of State. The company is committed to providing high-quality services and has a strong reputation for technical expertise, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Learn more about Amentum
Size
20,000 employees
Industry
Net Income
$200 million
Founded
2014
Revenue
$5 billion

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