Propulsion Engineer

Peraton•Huntsville, AL

2d•$104,000 - $166,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Propulsion Engineer provides technical intelligence analysis and engineering expertise on foreign missile, rocket, and space-launch propulsion systems. The incumbent evaluates propulsion technologies, performance characteristics, development trends, and operational implications of adversary and emerging systems to support national-level intelligence assessments, defense planning, and strategic decision-making.

Requirements

5 years with BS/BA; 3 years with MS/MA; 0 years with PhD
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, or related discipline.
Strong foundational knowledge of rocket propulsion theory and systems engineering.
Experience with missile, rocket, or space-launch vehicle propulsion systems, gained through government, industry, academia, or intelligence analysis.
Ability to analyze complex technical data and translate findings into clear, concise intelligence judgments.
Strong written and oral communication skills.
Active TS/SCI with the ability to sit and pass a polygraph
This position in located on-site in Huntsville, AL.

Nice To Haves

Solid Performance Program (SPP) analysis competency
Experience analyzing foreign or adversary missile/space systems.
Familiarity with intelligence analysis tradecraft and all-source methodologies.
Experience with propulsion modeling tools, simulations, or performance analysis software.
Knowledge of materials, energetics, manufacturing processes, or test infrastructure related to propulsion systems.
Previous DoD, Intelligence Community, FFRDC, or defense industry experience.

Responsibilities

Analyze foreign missile and space propulsion systems, including solid, liquid, hybrid, and advanced propulsion concepts (e.g., dual-pulse motors, throttleable engines, staged combustion, boost-glide propulsion).
Assess propulsion system design, materials, manufacturing methods, performance parameters, and failure modes based on all-source intelligence.
Conduct technical evaluations of thrust, specific impulse, burn profiles, staging, propellants, and engine cycles to determine system capabilities and limitations.
Support development of missile performance models, trajectory analyses, and propulsion trade studies.
Identify and assess foreign technological advancements, R&D trends, and potential future propulsion capabilities.
Provide written intelligence products, including intelligence assessments, briefings, and technical reports for senior DoD, IC, and national leadership.
Collaborate with analysts, scientists, and engineers across MSIC, DIA, Combatant Commands, and Intelligence Community partners.
Support red-team analyses and counterproliferation assessments related to missile and space-launch propulsion technologies.
Participate in peer reviews and contribute to methodology development for propulsion intelligence analysis.
Brief technical findings to both technical and non-technical audiences.