Ground System Fluid Mechanical Design Engineer III

About the Role

This role is part of the New Shepard program, a reusable suborbital rocket system designed to take astronauts and research payloads past the Kármán line. As a Level 3 Design Engineer - Ground Systems Development, you will contribute to improving and developing new ground testing facilities, working on challenging fluid and mechanical systems essential to propulsion testing. This position is not for immediate vacancy but is intended to fill anticipated future openings.

Responsibilities

• Own and lead the design and development of subsystems for ground test operations
• Build and analyze fluid and mechanical systems for propellant delivery, handling, and testing
• Review builds of entry-level engineers, providing technical guidance and mentorship
• Implement test systems, including cryogenics, vacuum systems, and other hazardous commodities
• Develop test requirements and procedures for safe operation with hazardous propellants
• Perform complex technical analysis and make build decisions based on results
• Collaborate with other subsystem owners to ensure coordinated system functionality
• Participate in Process Hazard Analysis activities for fluid systems (HAZOP)

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
• 5+ years of experience in fluid systems, mechanical systems, or test operations
• Demonstrated experience selecting components or systems for testing applications
• Proficiency with CAD software and engineering analysis tools
• Strong understanding of fluid mechanics principles and structural analysis
• Knowledge of industry standards including ASME B31.3, ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code (BPVC), IEST-STD-CC1246, State and Federal regulations, and other aerospace fluids related specifications
• Experience conducting build reviews and offering technical mentorship
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Excellent judgement and comfort making risk-based, high-quality, and high-velocity decisions

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with PTC Creo, AutoCAD, and advanced fluid/structural analysis software
• Direct experience with monopropellant or hypergolic propulsion systems
• Experience designing and operating vacuum systems
• Background in hazardous materials handling and associated safety protocols
• Knowledge of quality assurance practices for critical systems
• Demonstrated ability to optimize system builds for performance and safety

Additional Information

Relocation assistance is available. This role is based in Van Horn, Texas, or Kent, Washington, with up to 25% travel required between facilities and for field operations from the Kent location. The base pay range for CO applicants is $90,934.00 - $127,307.25, and for WA applicants is $99,201.00 - $138,880.35. Other site ranges may differ.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, basic and supplemental life insurance
• Paid parental leave
• Short and long-term disability
• 401(k) with a company match of up to 5%
• Education Support Program
• Stock options for all regular employees (working at least 20 hours/week)
• Paid Time Off: Up to four (4) weeks per year based on weekly scheduled hours, and up to 14 company-paid holidays

Van Horn Specific Information: Eligible employees at the West Texas Site in Van Horn, TX, may receive additional financial incentives, including a living allowance and relocation assistance, based on their ability to permanently relocate or travel to Van Horn a minimum of 50% of the time.