Propulsion Engineer

We are seeking a Propulsion Engineer to support the development, integration, and testing of propulsion systems for large, low-Earth orbit (LEO) spacecraft.

Responsibilities

• Lead development of spacecraft propulsion systems: concept, design, analysis, integration, test, and support for launch and on-orbit operations.

• Conduct detailed thermal, fluid, and structural analysis of propulsion components such as tanks, thrusters, valves, sensors, and feed systems.

• Specify and select hardware, manage vendor relationships, and ensure subsystem performance meets mission requirements.

• Support all phases of testing, including TVAC, vibration, and pressure testing, as well as propellant loading procedures.

• Collaborate with systems and mission engineering teams to define delta-v budgets, maneuvering requirements, and stationkeeping strategies.

• Document subsystem designs, interfaces, risk assessments, and verification plans.

• Participate in anomaly resolution and post-mission analysis.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field.

• 3+ years of professional experience in spacecraft propulsion systems development.

• Knowledge of chemical (monopropellant, bipropellant) and electric (ion, Hall-effect) propulsion technologies.

• Experience with propulsion test environments, pressure systems, and hazardous handling procedures.

• Proficient in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, orbital mechanics, and systems integration.

• Familiarity with CAD tools (e.g., SolidWorks, NX), scripting/engineering tools (MATLAB, Python), and FEA/CFD platforms.

• Comfortable working in a fast-paced, iterative engineering environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with large spacecraft platforms or telecom bus systems.

• Familiarity with propulsion vendors and components used in commercial or government space programs.

• Knowledge of satellite maneuvering strategies and autonomous control algorithms.

• Understanding of regulatory and safety standards for spacecraft propulsion and pressure systems.