Injector Design and Development Engineer

Aetherflux

$130K — $180K *
Aerospace & Defense
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Space Systems, or Engineering/Applied Physics equivalent
  • Strong grasp of thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and structural mechanics
  • 5+ years in mechanical design for manufacturing and rapid prototyping
  • Hands-on experience with rocket engine injector lifecycle

Responsibilities

  • Own injector hardware throughout design, analysis, and flight operation
  • Perform architecture trades for engine cycles and required performance
  • Select manufacturing methods and lead the build process
  • Plan and execute comprehensive test campaigns
  • Analyze hotfire data for component redesign and mission compliance
  • Collaborate with vehicle and test-stand engineers for operational compatibility

Benefits

  • Equity in Cowboy Space Corp.
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan
  • Paid time off and 10 paid holidays annually
  • Paid parental leave
  • Relocation assistance available
  • Daily lunch and fully stocked kitchen with snacks and beverages
Full Job Description
About the Role:

We are looking for an Injector Design and Development Engineer to own rocket engine injectors end to end-design, analysis, development, and validation. These injectors power the engines behind our own rockets and satellites, and they need to go from concept to hotfire fast. You will pair first-principles analytical design with hands-on manufacturing and test to drive rapid design/build/test cycles. The ideal candidate blends sharp analytical instincts with a builder's mindset and a relentless focus on turning analysis into flight-ready hardware. This position is onsite in the greater Seattle, WA area.

Responsibilities:
  • Own injector hardware end to end, from first-principles sizing through flight operation.
  • Perform physics-based architecture trades within a given engine cycle and required performance, leading to design & analysis of Thrust Chamber Assembly piece parts
  • Select manufacturing methods and lead the build, iterating on the design across the full lifecycle
  • Plan and execute test campaigns, from component tests through full-engine hotfire
  • Analyze hotfire data and lead component redesigns to meet mission requirements
  • Partner with vehicle and test-stand engineers to keep the engine compatible with operational needs


Basic Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Space Systems, or an equivalent Engineering or Applied Physics degree.
  • Strong command of first-principles thermodynamics, fluid dynamics, and structural mechanics.
  • 5+ years in mechanical design for manufacturing and rapid prototyping
  • Hands-on ownership of the rocket engine injector lifecycle


Preferred Qualifications:
  • Multiple cradle-to-grave cycles owning rocket engine injectors and/or TCA components
  • Analysis experience with Ansys Mechanical, Fluent, and/or Thermal Desktop
  • Experience using first principles to perform fluid system sizing, injector performance optimization (c*), and mitigation combustion stability concerns
  • Design for additive manufacturing, machining, and weld/braze processes
  • Experience planning, running, and analyzing rocket engine hotfire tests
  • Advanced degree in a relevant engineering discipline


Compensation and Benefits

The salary range for this position is $130,000 - $180,000 annually. The actual base salary offered will depend on factors such as job-related skills, experience, qualifications, and internal equity.
  • Equity in Cowboy Space Corp.
  • Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k) retirement savings plan
  • Paid time off
  • 10 paid holidays per calendar year
  • Paid parental leave
  • Relocation assistance if applicable
  • Daily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacks

Similar Jobs

More Jobs at Aetherflux

More Aerospace & Defense Jobs

Find similar Injector Design and Development Engineer jobs: