The Role

Mach Energetics is seeking a Manufacturing Engineer to lead the design, formulation, and development of advanced solid propulsion systems for next-generation defense platforms. This role focuses on propulsion architecture, propellant chemistry, grain design, and motor development from initial concept through validated hardware.

You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to create high-performance propulsion systems optimized for reliability, manufacturability, and operational effectiveness. The ideal candidate is deeply technical, highly hands-on, and excited to move quickly from design iteration to hardware execution.

This role is best suited for engineers who enjoy solving first-principles propulsion problems and want direct ownership over critical vehicle performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and develop solid rocket motor systems including propellant formulations, grain geometries, igniters, insulation systems, and nozzle configurations
• Develop and optimize composite solid propellant formulations
• Perform propulsion analyses including internal ballistics, combustion behavior, thermal performance, and structural evaluations
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to transition propulsion systems from prototype development to scalable production
• Support propellant mixing, casting, curing, and characterization activities during development programs
• Collaborate with flight sciences, structures, avionics, and systems engineering teams to integrate propulsion systems into operational vehicles
• Investigate propulsion anomalies and perform root-cause analysis on motor or propellant performance issues
• Support static fire testing and propulsion validation efforts as part of the development process

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
• Experience with solid propulsion systems, energetic materials, or rocket motor development
• Strong understanding of combustion, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and propulsion fundamentals
• Familiarity with composite propellant systems, grain design, and rocket motor internal ballistics
• Experience performing engineering analysis using modeling or simulation tools
• Ability to work hands-on in laboratory and propulsion development environments
• Strong technical communication and problem-solving skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's or PhD focused on propulsion, energetic materials, combustion, or related discipline
• Experience designing or analyzing solid rocket motors for tactical missile, launch vehicle, or UAV applications
• Familiarity with propellant processing, cure kinetics, and energetic material characterization
• Experience with CFD, FEA, thermal analysis, or combustion simulation tools
• Experience supporting propulsion development test campaigns and data analysis
• Knowledge of energetic material safety standards and handling procedures
• Experience operating in rapid development or startup environments

Disclosures

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations without sponsorship for an export license.

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors, inclusive of base salary only. Actual salary offers may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and training, critical skills, and business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in most offers and are considered part of Mach's total compensation package. Mach offers benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and opportunities for professional development.