Principal Propulsion Engineer - Ground Fluids

About the role

Varda is a space technology company focused on developing commercial space infrastructure. The Principal Propulsion Engineer - Ground Fluids will oversee the entire lifecycle of ground fluid systems, from design to operations, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability.

Responsibilities

• Own the full lifecycle of ground fluid systems, including satellite bus GSE, thruster development test stands, and component acceptance test hardware
• Lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple Varda sites, setting industry standards for safety, efficiency, and reliability
• Define Varda's propellant handling processes from the ground up, ensuring all commodities meet flight specifications
• Drive the ground fluids roadmap: identify capability gaps, prioritize investments, and help shape the team as we grow
• Set the standard: author and maintain technical standards, work instructions, and engineering documentation that the propulsion organization builds on
• Grow the next generation: mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers; serve as the technical reviewer they rely on
• Represent ground fluids in cross-functional design reviews, launch site coordination, and partner discussions
• Serve as the final escalation point when problems get complex and drive them to resolution

Qualifications

• B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline; 6+ years of hands-on experience in propulsion fluid system definition, design, build, and test for spacecraft or launch vehicles
• Deep working knowledge of fluid system hardware: pressurized components, tubing, fittings, seals, valves, and instrumentation
• Demonstrated experience authoring and executing operational procedures for ground test or flight campaigns
• Proficiency in reading and authoring Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
• Hands-on experience with fluid system manufacturing processes and installation methods
• Familiarity with 91-710 or equivalent range safety requirements
• Proven record of technical ownership, driving problems to resolution across organizational boundaries
• Proficiency with CAD tools and PLM software

Preferred Skills and Experience

• 6+ years of propulsion fluid systems experience on spacecraft or launch vehicles
• Experience with hypergolic, cryogenic, or other spacecraft-grade propellants
• Test or launch site operations experience, including coordination with range safety and launch site personnel
• Prior experience leading a technical team or sub-discipline, formally or informally
• Track record of developing and enforcing engineering standards or design guidelines within a propulsion organization
• Exceptional technical communication skills, precision, and clarity in work instructions, engineering specifications, assembly procedures, and engineering memos

Pay

Salary Range: Principal: $181,913- $232,444/per year
This role is on-site in El Segundo, CA
Leveling and base salary is determined by job-related skills, education level, experience level, and job performance

Benefits

• Flexible PTO policy + 12 paid holidays
• 100% company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance plans for employees and dependents with FSA and employer-matched HSA options
• Voluntary accident, hospital, critical illness, and pet insurance
• $120/month wellness reimbursement for gym and fitness expenses
• 12 weeks of parental leave (with supplemental disability leave for CA mothers)
• Family building, pregnancy, parenting and menopause benefits via Maven Clinic
• Sponsored One Medical memberships for employees and their dependents
• Substantial incentive equity in a fully funded space start-up
• 401(k) retirement plan with 6% employer match (immediately vested)
• $20/pay period cell phone reimbursement
• Relocation support for new hires, if needed
• Complimentary EV charging

Workplace Experience & Perks

• Fully stocked kitchen with lunch provided daily and dinner provided twice weekly
• Company and team-bonding events, happy hours and mission-success celebrations

ITAR Requirements

Varda, like all employers, must ensure that its employees working in the United States are lawfully authorized to work in the U.S. Additionally, our employees are exposed to and have access to certain export-controlled items. Because our employees are provided access to export-controlled items, our policy is to only hire “U.S. persons” who are permitted to have access to our technology without an export license.

E-Verify Statement

Varda Space Industries, Inc. participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program. The E-Verify program is an Internet-based employment eligibility verification system operated by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. Learn more about the E-Verify program.

E-Verify Notice Right To Work Notice

Varda Space Industries is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Candidates and employees are always evaluated based on merit, qualifications, and performance. We will never discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, national origin, ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability, or any other legally protected status.