Senior Propulsion Engineer - Ground Fluids
About The Position
As the Senior Propulsion Engineer - Ground Fluids, you will serve as the technical authority for Varda's ground fluid systems, which are critical for every mission. You will be responsible for setting the strategy, establishing standards, and building the infrastructure necessary to launch Varda spacecraft into orbit. This role encompasses the full lifecycle of ground fluid systems, from architecture and design through to build, test, and live flight operations. You will lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple sites, define operational approaches for scaling, and act as the technical subject matter expert for the propulsion team.
Requirements
- B.S. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related discipline; equivalent professional experience considered (typically 3-6+ years).
- 3+ years of hands-on experience in propulsion fluid system definition, design, build, and test for spacecraft or launch vehicles.
- Deep working knowledge of fluid system hardware: pressurized components, tubing, fittings, seals, valves, and instrumentation.
- Demonstrated experience authoring and executing operational procedures for ground test or flight campaigns.
- Proficiency in reading and authoring Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs).
- Hands-on experience with fluid system manufacturing processes and installation methods.
- Familiarity with 91-710 or equivalent range safety requirements.
- Proven record of technical ownership, driving problems to resolution across organizational boundaries.
- Proficiency with CAD tools and PLM software.
Nice To Haves
- 6+ years of propulsion fluid systems experience on spacecraft or launch vehicles.
- Experience with hypergolic, cryogenic, or other spacecraft-grade propellants.
- Test or launch site operations experience, including coordination with range safety and launch site personnel.
- Prior experience leading a technical team or sub-discipline, formally or informally.
- Track record of developing and enforcing engineering standards or design guidelines within a propulsion organization.
- Exceptional technical communication skills, precision and clarity in work instructions, engineering specifications, assembly procedures, and engineering memos.
Responsibilities
- Own the end-to-end lifecycle of ground fluid systems: architecture, schematics, mechanical design, build, and operations for spacecraft programs, including satellite bus GSE, thruster development test stands, and component acceptance test hardware.
- Lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple Varda sites, ensuring safety, efficiency, and reliability.
- Define Varda's propellant handling processes from the ground up, ensuring all commodities meet flight specifications.
- Drive the ground fluids roadmap by identifying capability gaps, prioritizing investments, and shaping the team's growth.
- Author and maintain technical standards, work instructions, and engineering documentation for the propulsion organization.
- Mentor and develop junior and mid-level engineers, serving as their technical reviewer.
- Represent ground fluids in cross-functional design reviews, launch site coordination, and partner discussions.
- Serve as the final escalation point for complex problems and drive them to resolution.
Benefits
- Stock options
- Long-term cash awards
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
Associate degree
