We are seeking a motivated and technically driven Propulsion Engineer II to contribute to the development and analysis of advanced propellant tanks, pumps, and next-generation spacecraft propulsion systems supporting Ranger missions.
In this role, you will perform fluid systems and computational fluid dynamics analyses that inform the development and performance of spacecraft propulsion systems. You will work closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, test, and flight operations teams to solve complex technical challenges and support propulsion hardware throughout the product lifecycle.
This position is ideal for an engineer with strong analytical capabilities who enjoys solving complex fluid dynamics and propulsion problems, developing high-quality engineering models, and contributing directly to flight-ready spacecraft systems.
Where You'll Make an Impact- Develop and execute piping network analyses for spacecraft propulsion and fluid systems
- Develop and execute computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses, including Volume of Fluid (VOF) and plume analyses
- Perform propulsion system trade studies and technical evaluations supporting spacecraft architecture decisions
- Develop engineering analyses, models, and technical documentation supporting propulsion system and hardware development
- Analyze propulsion and fluid system performance and provide technical recommendations based on modeling and simulation results
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver propulsion solutions that meet technical and program objectives
- Investigate propulsion system and hardware anomalies, perform root-cause analysis, and develop technically sound recommendations
- Contribute to the development of propulsion engineering standards, analytical best practices, and continuous process improvements
- Support technical reviews including System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Flight Readiness Review (FRR)
- Operate within a fast-paced development environment focused on rapid execution, technical excellence, and mission success
What It Takes- Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
- 3+ years of experience working with propulsion systems, fluid systems, or related aerospace applications
- Experience developing and executing piping network analyses using commercial analysis tools such as SINDA/FLUINT or GFSSP
- Experience developing and executing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Volume of Fluid (VOF) and plume analyses using commercial CFD tools such as ANSYS Fluent or STAR-CCM+
- Demonstrated ability to independently execute complex technical analyses while collaborating effectively with engineers and cross-functional stakeholders
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
- Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, iterative spacecraft development environment
Nice-to-Have Experience- Experience designing spacecraft propulsion systems, fluid systems, propellant tanks, pumps, or related aerospace hardware
- Experience integrating spacecraft propulsion systems or related fluid system hardware
- Experience planning, executing, or supporting propulsion system or component testing and qualification
- Experience leading significant engineering tasks supporting the development of propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systems
- Experience performing Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
- Experience performing performance analysis of pump-fed spacecraft propulsion systems
- Experience designing, analyzing, or testing propellant management devices (PMDs)
- Experience with laser welding, friction stir welding, or other advanced aerospace manufacturing processes
- Experience machining aerospace-grade components using CNC equipment
- Experience testing propulsion systems utilizing propellants such as hydrazine and MON-3
- Experience designing gear pumps, pump motors, or other spacecraft fluid system components
- Experience supporting subsystem integration, environmental testing, launch campaign activities, or mission readiness
- Experience supporting fast-paced aerospace, defense, or commercial space programs
- Experience utilizing AI-enabled engineering, modeling, or design optimization tools
What You'll Get- Ownership - Take responsibility for mission-critical propulsion analyses and engineering efforts supporting spacecraft systems from development through flight
- Innovation - Help develop advanced propulsion technologies enabling next-generation spacecraft mobility and maneuverability
- Impact - Contribute to reliable, flight-ready propulsion systems supporting national security, civil, and commercial space missions
- Growth - Join a multidisciplinary engineering team where you'll contribute to complex propulsion challenges and expand your expertise across spacecraft development and mission execution
- Compensation - Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation
Location: Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA
Base Salary: $110,000 to $160,000
The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.
Additional RequirementsTo comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.
