Principal/Senior Engineer, Propulsion
About The Position
Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast, iterate quickly, and deliver flight hardware. We are seeking a Principal/Senior Engineer to take technical ownership of propellant tank development while contributing broadly to propulsion system design, integration, and delivery. This role is ideal for an experienced engineer who thrives in a hands-on environment and is ready to lead technical execution from concept through flight operations. Job level and salary is dependent on candidate's relevant job experience.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Ph.D. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering.
- 7+ years of experience in the design, analysis, build, and test of space-rated metallic pressure vessels and related propulsion hardware, including:
- Familiarity with ANSI/AIAA S-080A, launch vehicle interfaces, and range safety requirements.
- Experience with qualification and acceptance testing of space-rated pressure vessels.
- Proficiency in tank and pressure vessel analysis, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA), fracture mechanics, slosh dynamics, and propellant management devices.
- Demonstrated experience leading technical efforts and small teams.
- Ownership of cost, schedule, and technical performance for assigned hardware.
- Proficiency with common engineering analysis tools and workflows.
- Ability to operate effectively in a fast-paced, evolving development environment.
- Strong commitment to technical rigor, continuous learning, and mentoring junior engineers.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with in-space propulsion subsystems beyond propellant tanks.
- Background working in a fast-paced startup or rapid development environment.
- Advanced propulsion analysis experience using tools such as MATLAB/Simulink, CFD, FEA, Surface Evolver, and GFSSP.
- Experience with CAD tools and configuration-controlled hardware development.
- Strong background in risk identification and mitigation.
- Programming experience in Java, Python, Julia, and/or C++.
- Familiarity with 5S (6S) and Lean Six Sigma principles.
Responsibilities
- Own and execute propulsion hardware development across the full product lifecycle, including requirements definition, design, analysis, build, test, and flight support.
- Lead the design and delivery of space-rated propellant tanks and supporting propulsion components.
- Serve as a technical contributor and mentor within a cross-disciplinary engineering team.
- Collaborate closely with systems, structures, manufacturing, test, and operations teams to deliver flight-ready hardware on aggressive schedules.
- Apply sound engineering judgment and creativity to solve complex propulsion challenges and meet mission requirements.
Benefits
- Leadership – Opportunities to lead technical efforts and drive mission objectives.
- Innovation – Direct involvement in developing and testing next-generation propulsion systems and spacecraft.
- Impact – See your work fly on unique, high-profile missions.
- Growth – A clear path for continued technical leadership in a rapidly growing space company.
- Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, FSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
