Propulsion Engineer II

Relativity Space•Long Beach, CA

1d•$104,000 - $156,000•Onsite

About The Position

This role is on the Engine Systems & Test Team at Relativity Space, focusing on the integrated engine test team which tests the full engine assembly. The work spans simulation & software tools; system-level architecture, requirements, and interfaces; component & integrated system hotfire testing. The team collaborates closely with component engineers, manufacturing, the Stennis test team, and the Cape launch team to deliver engines for the Terran rocket. The role involves serving as a Responsible Engineer for propulsion test articles, developing test plans, executing test campaigns, troubleshooting technical puzzles, and owning the exploratory operation of new and existing test article designs. Day-to-day activities are varied and can include writing test sequences, reviewing data, hands-on work with test articles, writing code, console operation for hotfire tests, and designing tooling. Systems work may include engine subsystem troubleshooting, partner team product investigations, engine system analysis and simulation, and trade studies. The role also involves taking ownership of projects to increase collective efficiency. As the vehicle development program progresses, there may be opportunities to be involved in stage test and flight campaigns, including console operation for launch, defining stage test objectives, and defining flight concepts of operations (CONOPS). The ideal candidate is a self-starter capable of leading collaborative projects, continuously seeking self-improvement and learning about interfacing systems. The role offers significant influence in a fast-growing startup with opportunities for rapid professional growth.

Requirements

2+ years of experience in a complex engineering system development and/or test environment
Bachelor’s degree in a science, engineering, technology, or mathematics field
Experience applying engineering fundamentals in fluid mechanics & thermodynamics
Experience with problem-solving
Experience working in a collaborative environment
Demonstrated ability to execute high-ownership projects on ambitious schedules, especially if unconventional solutions are necessary

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in aerospace is not required.
Exposure to test operations environments
Working knowledge of at least one of the following: combustion devices, valves, heat exchangers, or instrumentation

Responsibilities

Serve as a Responsible Engineer for propulsion test articles.
Develop test plans in collaboration with product owners.
Execute test campaigns with the Stennis team, troubleshooting technical puzzles.
Own the exploratory operation of new and existing test article designs, evaluating test hardware behavior.
Write test sequences.
Review data.
Perform hands-on work with test articles.
Write code.
Sit console for hotfire tests.
Design tooling.
Support engine subsystem troubleshooting.
Partner on team product investigations.
Conduct engine system analysis and simulation.
Perform trade studies.
Take ownership of projects to increase collective efficiency.
Potentially be involved in stage test and flight campaigns, including sitting console for launch operations, defining stage test objectives, and defining flight concepts of operations (CONOPS).