Propulsion Engineer II

About the role

We are seeking a motivated and technically driven Engineer II – Propulsion to contribute to the development of advanced propellant tanks, pumps, and next-generation spacecraft propulsion systems supporting Ranger missions. This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, taking ownership of hardware development, and contributing directly to flight-ready spacecraft systems.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the design, development, and qualification of propellant tanks, pumps, and advanced spacecraft propulsion systems
• Execute engineering tasks across design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, qualification, integration, and flight support activities
• Perform propulsion system trade studies and technical evaluations supporting spacecraft architecture decisions
• Develop engineering analyses, models, and technical documentation supporting propulsion hardware development
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver propulsion hardware on schedule while meeting technical and program objectives
• Investigate propulsion hardware anomalies, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actions
• Contribute to the development of propulsion engineering standards, best practices, and continuous process improvements
• Support technical reviews including System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Flight Readiness Review (FRR)

Requirements

• Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline
• 3+ years of experience developing propulsion systems, fluid systems, or related aerospace hardware
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute technical work from concept through implementation while collaborating effectively with engineers, technicians, manufacturing personnel, and cross-functional stakeholders
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills
• Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, iterative spacecraft development environment

Qualifications

• Experience leading significant engineering tasks supporting the development of propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systems
• Experience performing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and/or Finite Element Analysis (FEA)
• Experience performing performance analysis of pump-fed spacecraft propulsion systems
• Experience designing, analyzing, or testing propellant management devices (PMDs)
• Experience with laser welding, friction stir welding, or other advanced aerospace manufacturing processes
• Experience machining aerospace-grade components using CNC equipment
• Experience testing propulsion systems utilizing propellants such as hydrazine and MON-3
• Experience designing gear pumps, pump motors, or other spacecraft fluid system components
• Experience supporting fast-paced aerospace, defense, or commercial space programs
• Experience utilizing AI-enabled engineering, modeling, or design optimization tools

Skills

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
• Effective communication and collaboration abilities
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, iterative environment
• Knowledge of aerospace engineering principles and practices
• Experience with relevant software and tools

Benefits

Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation. Base Salary: $110,000–$160,000. The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, technical expertise, critical skills, and business considerations.

Pay

Base Salary: $110,000–$160,000

Schedule

Full-time