ResponsibilitiesThe Propulsion Engineer provides technical intelligence analysis and engineering expertise on foreign missile, rocket, and space-launch propulsion systems. The incumbent evaluates propulsion technologies, performance characteristics, development trends, and operational implications of adversary and emerging systems to support national-level intelligence assessments, defense planning, and strategic decision-making.
Major Duties and Responsibilities
- Analyze foreign missile and space propulsion systems, including solid, liquid, hybrid, and advanced propulsion concepts (e.g., dual-pulse motors, throttleable engines, staged combustion, boost-glide propulsion).
- Assess propulsion system design, materials, manufacturing methods, performance parameters, and failure modes based on all-source intelligence.
- Conduct technical evaluations of thrust, specific impulse, burn profiles, staging, propellants, and engine cycles to determine system capabilities and limitations.
- Support development of missile performance models, trajectory analyses, and propulsion trade studies.
- Identify and assess foreign technological advancements, R&D trends, and potential future propulsion capabilities.
- Provide written intelligence products, including intelligence assessments, briefings, and technical reports for senior DoD, IC, and national leadership.
- Collaborate with analysts, scientists, and engineers across MSIC, DIA, Combatant Commands, and Intelligence Community partners.
- Support red-team analyses and counterproliferation assessments related to missile and space-launch propulsion technologies.
- Participate in peer reviews and contribute to methodology development for propulsion intelligence analysis.
- Brief technical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- A Bachelor’s degree with 5 years of relevant experience OR a Master’s degree with 3 years of relevant experience; an additional 4 years of experience maybe considered in lieu of a degree requirement
- Strong foundational knowledge of rocket propulsion theory and systems engineering.
- Experience with missile, rocket, or space-launch vehicle propulsion systems, gained through government, industry, academia, or intelligence analysis.
- Ability to analyze complex technical data and translate findings into clear, concise intelligence judgments.
- Strong written and oral communication skills.
- Active TS/SCI with the ability to sit and pass a polygraph
This position in located on-site in Huntsville, AL.
Desired Qualifications
- Solid Performance Program (SPP) analysis competency
- Experience analyzing foreign or adversary missile/space systems.
- Familiarity with intelligence analysis tradecraft and all-source methodologies.
- Experience with propulsion modeling tools, simulations, or performance analysis software.
- Knowledge of materials, energetics, manufacturing processes, or test infrastructure related to propulsion systems.
- Previous DoD, Intelligence Community, FFRDC, or defense industry experience.
Target Salary Range$104,000 - $166,000. This represents the typical salary range for this position. Salary is determined by various factors, including but not limited to, the scope and responsibilities of the position, the individual’s experience, education, knowledge, skills, and competencies, as well as geographic location and business and contract considerations. Depending on the position, employees may be eligible for overtime, shift differential, and a discretionary bonus in addition to base pay.
