Structural Design/Optimization Engineer (ES3)

Position Description

As a Propulsion Design Engineer, you will provide inline design, development, and test support of propulsion systems for NASA’s Human Launch Systems. In this role, you will help bridge the gap between traditional systems/hardware design and cutting-edge optimization using artificial intelligence. You will provide a solid foundation in engineering design principles combined with hands-on experience in hardware with machine learning, neural networks, and AI model deployment. You will become part of a multi-discipline team with the charter to establish flight rationale for America’s new Human-Rated vehicles.

Primary job duties

• Engage in multi-discipline engineering teams in the creation of new designs (CAD models, documents, drawings) and research with a focus on propulsion devices and support hardware.
• Use CREO parametric modeling software including extensions such as CREO piping, and additive manufacturing modules.
• Perform design and strength optimization of propulsion hardware (topology optimization, advanced modeling).
• Collaborate with vendors and personnel from other NASA centers in the development of integrated flight hardware and associated ground test equipment.

Qualifications

• External BS degree (MS preferred) in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Civil Engineering, Engineering Mechanics or related field is required. Degree from an ABET accredited institution is preferred.
• Typically, educational requirements are the equivalent of a minimum of a Masters with at least 3 years of experience, or BS with at least 5 years of experience.
• Must be a US Citizen and have a STAR ID.

Additional Qualifications

• Proficiency in the use of a computer-aided design software package such as CREO, NX CAD, or Solidworks is required.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office products such as PowerPoint, Excel, and Word is required.
• Familiarity with high-level programming languages, such as Python, and hands-on experience developing AI/ML models using frameworks such as PyTorch, TensorFlow, or Keras.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required.

Work Environment

General office environment (100%). Requires ability to provide clear, concise, accurate and timely communication, both verbally and in writing (100%). Requires ability to interact professionally with co-workers, management, and client (100%). Requires travel in the domestic USA (

Physical Requirements

• Sitting for extended periods of time in meetings with peers, management, and with our client at NASA facilities to discuss technical issues (10%).
• Sitting for extended periods of time at a desk to write reports and perform engineering tasks (40%).
• Ability to use stairs or elevators for access between floors and multiple buildings at NASA and Amentum facilities (10%).

Equipment and Machines

Requires ability to operate a personal computer, a telephone, fax machine, copier, calculator, and other general office equipment (100%).

Attendance

Normal workday is from 7:30 a.m. through 4:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday. Minimal overtime may be required (10%) to meet schedule milestones and to support technical demands of the job.

Other Essential Functions

• The ability to work independently with minimal supervision, and to make rational decisions, and to exercise good judgment is essential (100%).
• Grooming and dress must be appropriate for the position and must not impose a safety risk/hazard to the employee or others.

Compensation Details

ES3 The compensation range or hourly rate listed for this position is provided as a good-faith estimate of what the company intends to offer for this role at the time this posting was issued. Actual compensation may vary based on factors such as job responsibilities, education, experience, skills, internal equity, market data, applicable collective bargaining agreements, and relevant laws.

Benefits Overview

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off and holidays
• Retirement benefits (including 401(k) matching)
• Educational reimbursement
• Parental leave
• Employee stock purchase plan
• Tax-saving options
• Disability and life insurance
• Pet insurance

Original Posting

Original Posting: 06/24/2026 - Until Filled

Amentum

Amentum is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. Our hiring practices provide equal opportunity for employment without regard to race, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or medical conditions related to pregnancy, childbirth, or breastfeeding), age, ancestry, United States military or veteran status, color, religion, creed, marital or domestic partner status, medical condition, genetic information, national origin, citizenship status, low-income status, or mental or physical disability so long as the essential functions of the job can be performed with or without reasonable accommodation, or any other protected category under federal, state, or local law. Learn more about your rights under Federal laws and supplemental language at Labor Laws Posters.