PROPULSION ENGINEER I, ENGINE SYSTEMSAs an Engine Systems Propulsion Engineer, you will play a critical role in the development, testing, and operation of the Archimedes Engine family, a cornerstone of the Neutron rocket program. This highly technical role involves ownership of engine subsystems, test campaigns, data analysis, and refining designs for reliability and vehicle operations, while driving system architecture trades, managing interfaces, and optimizing requirements for the vehicle.
Success requires strong autonomy, technical expertise, curiosity, attention to detail, and the ability to organize complex systems into actionable plans while collaborating across teams. You will also support engine analysis, simulation, testing, and tool development, bringing deep technical acumen to solve challenging problems. As a self-starter capable of leading projects with minimal oversight, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact in a fast-growing startup environment that fosters growth and innovation.
WHAT YOU'LL GET TO DO:- Design, analyze, test, fly, and refly next generation propulsion hardware ensuring operational readiness and flight success.
- Develop clear requirements and deliver validated designs and hardware that meet program milestones and flight requirements.
- Execute engine test plans, including performance validation and reliability testing, and conduct post-test data reviews to distill learnings and adjust test planning.
- Collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure robust integration, testing, and problem solving.
- Support flight operations, including engine acceptance and post-flight analysis.
YOU'LL BRING THESE QUALIFICATIONS AS PROPULSION ENGINEER I: - Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or related field.
- Strong fundamental understanding of fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, and cryogenic systems.
- Fundamental understanding of mechanical design principles.
THESE QUALIFICATIONS WOULD BE NICE TO HAVE:- Advanced degree in a fluid mechanics-heavy field.
- Proven ability to conduct hotfire data reviews, identify blockers for testing, and ensure operational safety of engine systems.
- Experience with staged combustion rocket engines and Methyl/LOX propellant systems.
- Background in failure analysis, combustion dynamics, turbopump mechanics, and/ or fluid systems analysis.
- Familiarity with reusable rocket engine systems and/or test/launch facility operations.
This position may require prolonged periods of sitting, standing, walking, computer work, and occasional exposure to moderate levels of noise, dust, and fumes in production areas
WHAT TO EXPECTWe're on a mission to unlock the potential of space to improve life on Earth, but that's not an easy task. It takes hard work, determination, relentless innovation, teamwork, grit, and an unwavering commitment to achieving what others often deem impossible. Our people out-think, out-work, and out-pace. We pride ourselves on having each other's backs, checking our egos at the door, and rolling up our sleeves on all tasks big and small. We thrive under pressure, work to tight deadlines, and our focus is always on how we can deliver, rather than dwelling on the challenges that stand in the way.
