POSITION SUMMARYWe are looking for a resilient, high-energy, experienced Propulsion SME Engineer - Thruster Systems to own the end-to-end technical execution of a bipropellant thruster from requirements definition through design, build, integration, test, and flight readiness. You will lead cross-functional teams and suppliers to deliver to aggressive cost and schedule targets while maintaining safety and configuration discipline. The ideal candidate combines deep hands-on propulsion hardware experience with strong technical leadership, clear communication, and a bias for execution.
KEY DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES- Owns the end-to-end technical execution of bipropellant thruster assemblies including combustion chambers, injectors, nozzles, igniters, and associated valves/instrumentation - from requirements through, design, build, integration, test and flight readiness.
- Serve as a subject matter expert in thruster design, providing technical authority on system architecture, sizing, fluid/thermal/structural analyses, materials/manufacturability, and performance optimization across the full development lifecycle.
- Perform detailed modeling, analysis and simulation of thruster assemblies using tools such as ANSYS, Fluent, TDK, CEA, etc to evaluate combustion performance, thermal effects, structural margins and transient behaviors.
- Perform component sizing and selection for thruster assemblies, ensuring compatibility with performance, thermal, structural, safety and compatibility requirements.
- Design, plan and execute thruster development, qualification, and acceptance test campaigns define instrumentation requirements, execute test planning and perform data correlation to anchor and validate analytical models.
- Lead and participate in internal and external design and gate reviews, trade studies, and subassembly integration activities; ensure compliance with system requirements and program milestones
- Coordinate and manage technical requirements and design verification activities with external vendors and suppliers, interface on cost, schedule, design, manufacturing, and acceptance
- Lead and participate in trade studies, component selection, and subassembly design and integration analyses in support of thruster development programs
- Provide technical mentorship and guidance to less experienced engineers
- Responsible for delivering against performance, safety, cost, and schedule targets
QUALIFICATIONS: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Education & Experience- Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in Aerospace, Mechanical, or related Engineering discipline required; advanced degree preferred
- 15+ years of relevant experience in spacecraft or launch vehicle propulsion, with demonstrated depth in thruster or liquid rocket engine design and development
- Significant hands-on experience with engine/thruster design, development, qualification, and integration - including injectors, combustion chambers, nozzles, igniters, and thermal management interfaces
- Expertise in combustion, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and fluid dynamics with demonstrated application to thruster performance and thermal analysis
- Experience developing and executing test campaigns including test planning, instrumentation selection, and data correlation
- Propulsion component experience spanning valves, filters, regulators, manifolds, and instrumentation interfacing with thruster assemblies
- 3D modeling software experience; SolidWorks preferred
Grit- Passion for space and the mission
- Entrepreneurial, growth mindset
- Perseverance
- Resourceful, adaptable
Skills- Executes priorities with precision and pace
- High EQ and ability to collaborate within teams and cross-functionally
- Tech-savvy in using systems and tools to move faster and smarter
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Competencies:Embody our core values of
leadership,
innovation, and
teamwork. In addition, to perform the job successfully, an individual should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Accountability
- Sense of Urgency
- Extreme Ownership
- Execution and Delivery
- Efficiency
- Effectiveness
WORK ENVIRONMENT:Generally, an office environment, but can involve inside or outside work depending on the task.
Requirements- Must be able to complete a U.S. government background investigation
- Management has the prerogative to select at any level for which the position is advertised
- Proof of U.S. Citizenship or US Permanent Residency is a requirement for this position
- Must be willing to work evenings and weekends as needed to meet critical project milestones
Physical Requirements- Work may involve sitting or standing for extended periods (90% of the time)
- May require lifting and carrying up to 25 lbs. (5% of the time)
- Equipment and Machines
- Standard office equipment (PC, phone, printer, etc.)
