Deputy Program Manager for Propulsion Development

About the role

Who We Are: Venus Aerospace is revolutionizing rocket engine propulsion. With the first generational leap in rocket engine technology since Apollo, our proprietary Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine and Venus Detonation Ramjets deliver historic efficiency and performance across aerospace applications. We are building the next generation of propulsion platforms that enable breakthrough capabilities in space, defense, and commercial high-speed flight. Our team thrives on solving the toughest engineering challenges and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in aerospace. At Venus, we’re looking for bold engineers and innovators who want to make history and redefine the future of propulsion.

The Role: Deputy Program Manager for Propulsion Development will partner with leaders from manufacturing, engineering, test, purchasing and sales to develop Venus propulsion systems. You will own program requirements, schedules, and budgets and ensure the integrated team delivers propulsion systems with exceptional performance and propellant mass fraction that are manufacturable and marketable. This is a hands-on program leadership role in a rapidly evolving startup environment.

Location: On-site in Houston, TX

Responsibilities

• Program Leadership: ensure alignment between Venus Aerospace business plan and technology roadmap.
• Program Execution: Deconflict resources and set priorities. Manage cost, schedule, and technical performance from design through manufacturing, integration, test, and deployment.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with engineering to translate mission needs into product requirements, guide design reviews, and manage technical or contractual changes. Work with manufacturing to ensure designs can be manufactured; supply chains can support timelines and prioritize work. Work with test to ensure the design of experiments meet exit criteria and achieve product performance.
• Customer Engagement: Lead program reviews, present technical and schedule briefings, negotiate requirements, and maintain strong relationships with customer stakeholders.
• Risk Management: Identify program risks early, develop mitigation plans, and maintain schedule fidelity under aggressive timelines.
• Proposal & Contract Management: Lead proposal efforts and contract negotiations, ensuring technical feasibility, cost effectiveness, and compliance with FAR/DFARS requirements.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Systems Engineering, or a related technical field or equivalent experience.
• Excellent communication and technical writing skills, including preparation of CDRLs and technical data packages.
• 15+ years of experience in aerospace, defense, or national security programs.
• 5+ years of experience as a Program Manager in aerospace.
• Proven track record of excellence and achievement.