Propulsion Engineer II (Analyst)

Quantum Space•Rockville, MD

7d•$110,000 - $160,000

About The Position

Quantum Space is seeking a technically driven Propulsion Engineer II to contribute to the development and analysis of propellant tanks, pumps, and spacecraft propulsion systems supporting Ranger missions. The role performs fluid systems and computational fluid dynamics analyses to inform propulsion-system development and performance, and collaborates with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, test, and flight operations teams. The position is suited to an engineer with strong analytical capabilities who enjoys solving fluid dynamics and propulsion problems, developing engineering models, and contributing to flight-ready spacecraft systems. The engineer will develop piping network and CFD analyses, conduct propulsion system trade studies, create engineering analyses and technical documentation, assess system performance, investigate anomalies, and provide technical recommendations. The role also contributes to engineering standards and process improvements and supports major technical reviews throughout spacecraft development. Work takes place in a fast-paced, iterative development environment focused on execution, technical excellence, and mission success.

Requirements

Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
At least 3 years of experience working with propulsion systems, fluid systems, or related aerospace applications.
Experience developing and executing piping network analyses using commercial tools such as SINDA/FLUINT or GFSSP.
Experience developing and executing CFD Volume of Fluid (VOF) and plume analyses using commercial tools such as ANSYS Fluent or STAR-CCM+.
Ability to independently execute complex technical analyses while collaborating effectively with engineers and cross-functional stakeholders.
Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.
Comfort working in a fast-paced, iterative spacecraft development environment.
To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Nice To Haves

Experience designing spacecraft propulsion systems, fluid systems, propellant tanks, pumps, or related aerospace hardware.
Experience integrating spacecraft propulsion systems or related fluid system hardware.
Experience planning, executing, or supporting propulsion system or component testing and qualification.
Experience leading significant engineering tasks supporting development of propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systems.
Experience performing 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 subsystem integration, environmental testing, launch campaign activities, or mission readiness.
Experience supporting fast-paced aerospace, defense, or commercial space programs.
Experience utilizing AI-enabled engineering, modeling, or design optimization tools.

Responsibilities

Develop and execute piping network analyses for spacecraft propulsion and fluid systems.
Develop and execute computational fluid dynamics analyses, including Volume of Fluid (VOF) and plume analyses.
Perform propulsion system trade studies and technical evaluations supporting spacecraft architecture decisions.
Develop engineering analyses, models, and technical documentation supporting propulsion system and hardware development.
Analyze propulsion and fluid system performance and provide technical recommendations based on modeling and simulation results.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver propulsion solutions that meet technical and program objectives.
Investigate propulsion system and hardware anomalies, perform root-cause analysis, and develop technically sound recommendations.
Contribute to propulsion engineering standards, analytical best practices, and continuous process improvements.
Support System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Flight Readiness Review (FRR).
Work in a fast-paced development environment focused on rapid execution, technical excellence, and mission success.