Propulsion Systems Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation • Cape Canaveral, FL

2d • $131,400 - $197,000 • Onsite

About The Position

The Aerospace Corporation’s Defense Systems Group is seeking a Propulsion Systems Engineer for its Launch Systems, Operations, and Development team. The role provides technical and programmatic leadership for Program Office (PO) and Engineering & Technology Group (ETG) engineers evaluating, certifying, and providing mission assurance for propulsion systems on SpaceX Falcon and/or Blue Origin New Glenn launch systems supporting National Security Space Launch (NSSL) missions for the U.S. Space Force.

The engineer ensures ETG assessments and recommendations are technically sound, objective, and delivered within appropriate schedules and budget allocations. The position directs, mentors, and develops PO and ETG team capabilities and builds working relationships with the Space Force, contractors and suppliers, and other stakeholders such as the NRO and NASA. Work spans mission execution across launch vehicle propulsion systems and coordination with related engineering disciplines, as well as leadership of project engineers focused on engines and stage propulsion systems.

The selected candidate must work full-time on-site at the company’s offices at Los Angeles Air Force Base or Cape Canaveral, Florida. The position requires the ability to enter manufacturing facilities and travel to test sites, launch sites, and between campuses. A current DOD Secret clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one is required; U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a clearance.

Requirements

• B.S. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related technical field.
• At least 3 years of related engineering experience for the Sr. Member of Technical Staff level; at least 6 years for the Project Engineer level.
• For the Sr. Member of Technical Staff level, past propulsion work in at least one of the following: engine or systems design, propulsion analysis or evaluation, engine testing, propulsion systems engineering, stage propulsion, engine manufacturing, engine certification, mission assurance, or mission support.
• For the Project Engineer level, past propulsion work in at least three of the listed propulsion areas.
• Experience contributing to multidisciplinary technical team efforts; experience leading multidisciplinary technical team efforts is required for the Project Engineer level.
• Ability to physically enter manufacturing facilities and travel to test sites, launch sites, and between campuses to support missions.
• Current DOD Secret clearance or ability to obtain and maintain a Secret clearance.
• U.S. citizenship, required to obtain a security clearance.
• Ability to work full-time on-site at Los Angeles Air Force Base or Cape Canaveral, Florida.

Nice To Haves

• M.S. and/or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with an emphasis in combustion or propulsion from a recognized institution, and/or an MBA.
• Experience leading component-level pedigrees and developing and delivering presentations to peers and all levels of management.
• Experience consulting or advising external groups.
• Knowledge of the Launch Verification Matrix, Chief Engineer Review Board, and/or risk management matrix.

Responsibilities

• Lead analysis, design, development, evaluation, testing, certification, pedigree, mission assurance, fleet monitoring, and launch mission control activities for large launch vehicle motors, engines, and stage propulsion systems.
• Manage ETG technical studies that assure the integrity, reliability, performance, and compliance of large engines and propulsion systems.
• Collaborate with program office staff responsible for other launch system areas, including structures, GNC, avionics, and systems.
• Support management and systems engineering activities as needed.
• Prepare reports, briefings, updates, and documents in support of program activities and Aerospace processes.
• Build and maintain close working relationships with the Space Force, Aerospace program offices, contractors, and representatives of other government agencies.
• Provide technical advice and recommendations, and inform customer and Aerospace management about technical activities, issues, and accomplishments through reports and senior-level briefings.
• Assist the contractor with vehicle certification and launches.
• Establish mutually beneficial solutions between contractors and the U.S. Government team.
• Provide direction, mentoring, and development for the technical and functional capabilities of PO and ETG teams.
• Lead programmatic and technical execution of PO teams and individual project engineers focused on engines and stage propulsion systems, delivering NSSL missions on budget and on plan.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans.
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation.
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options.
• 401(k) plan with company-paid contributions of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service, plus matching contributions; immediate eligibility and vesting upon hire.
• Flexible spending accounts.
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions.
• Relocation assistance.
• Professional growth and development programs.
• Education assistance programs.
• Inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level