YOUR MISSIONWe are revolutionizing spacecraft systems and are searching for candidates passionate about hands-on engineering and advancing new technologies in space propulsion and fluid systems. As a Senior/Staff Propulsion and Fluids Production Engineer, you will own production engineering strategy and execution for propulsion and fluids hardware across multiple spacecraft programs. You will build scalable manufacturing processes, lead and develop production engineering teams, and partner with design engineering to drive manufacturability from concept through high-rate production. This role requires deep technical expertise, proven leadership in production environments, and the ability to build systems and teams that scale.
Level and compensation will be determined based on experience, technical depth, leadership capability, and scope of prior manufacturing programs owned.
RESPONSIBILITIES- Lead and mentor a team of propulsion and fluids production engineers, providing technical guidance, production metrics, skill development, and performance management.
- Own the production engineering strategy and execution for propulsion and fluids components and systems to achieve cost, rate, and quality targets for low and high rate production.
- Drive technical reviews with design engineering and make critical go/no-go production engineering decisions to ensure design is manufacturable.
- Own the setup and scaling of manufacturing factory capabilities for developmental programs and rate production.
- Develop technical documentation and work instructions for the fabrication, assembly, integration, and test of propulsion and fluids systems, related ground support equipment and tooling.
- Directly support production on the floor to ensure efficient build of propulsion and fluid system hardware, addressing bottlenecks, non-conformances, and troubleshooting technical issues.
- Drive continuous improvements and corrective actions to increase efficiency and reliability by utilizing production metrics.
- Drive engagement with Supply Chain on vendor management, supplier qualification and development, and make/buy strategies.
- Oversee calibration and certification of fluids and propulsion ground support equipment, tooling, and test equipment.
QUALIFICATIONS - Bachelor's degree in aerospace, mechanical, manufacturing, or related technical discipline.
- Experience in manufacturing engineering for aerospace, defense, or high-reliability systems commensurate with the level of responsibility.
- Strong communication and collaboration skills with demonstrated ability to influence design decisions, drive cross-functional alignment, and present technical information to diverse audiences.
- Hands-on experience with propulsion or fluid system component fabrication, assembly, and testing including tube bending, tube routing, welding, brazing, pressure vessel fabrication, valve assembly, structural proof testing, leak testing, and functional testing.
- Experience with PLM, CAD, MES, configuration and data management controls and systems.
- Experience working to AS9100 process and standards.
- Experience building and producing classified hardware in SCIF's or SAP facilities.
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE - Experience in the design, manufacturing, assembly, and testing of propulsion components and systems (e.g., turbomachinery, thrusters, valves, pressure tanks, combustion devices, feed systems, environmental control units) and propellant handling.
- Expertise in at least one propulsion or fluids manufacturing domain: cnc machining, metal forming, additive manufacturing, tube cleaning and routing, mechanical assembly, welding, tooling, vehicle integration, precision alignment, interface control.
- Experience in selecting and commissioning equipment to enable production.
- Expert-level understanding of AS9100.
- Background in spacecraft or propulsion system environmental or qualification testing (TVAC, vibration, shock, proof pressure, acceptance test).
COMPENSATION Base Salary:
Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave
Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS- Work Location-Successful candidates will be located near Long Beach, CA. While we observe a hybrid work environment, some work must be done on site.
- Work environment-the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
- Physical demands-the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving.
This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below.
#LI-Onsite To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
