Senior Propulsion Engineer, Cryogenic & Chemical Systems

Turion Space•Irvine, CA

3d•$150,000 - $200,000

About The Position

Turion is developing vertically integrated hardware and software for the space economy, including DROID space vehicles and the Starfire software suite. The Senior Propulsion Engineer, Cryogenic & Chemical Systems, assists with the system design, development, integration, testing, and analysis of satellite propulsion systems, focusing on cryogenic and chemical systems. The role emphasizes designing propulsion systems from high-level mission requirements and driving execution from subsystem selection—including thrusters, propellant management, and ground support equipment—through launch. Experience owning or working on large-scale cryogenic propellant vehicles is a plus. The position may involve access to technology or software source code subject to U.S. export controls. Applicants must meet the stated U.S. citizenship, permanent residency, refugee, or asylee criteria, or be eligible to obtain required authorizations. Employees may be asked to support alternate or extended shifts and travel during peak work periods.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, or a related field.
At least 4 years of relevant propulsion engineering experience, including significant experience designing and developing propulsion systems for aerospace or space technology.
Strong knowledge of liquid propulsion system design, thrusters, and propellant systems.
Proficiency, at least at read-access level, with engineering design and simulation tools such as MATLAB and ANSYS.
Experience managing complex engineering projects, including scope, timelines, and resources.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to present technical information clearly and collaborate with team members and stakeholders.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret and/or TS/SCI clearance.
Must meet U.S. export-control eligibility requirements or be eligible to obtain required authorizations.

Nice To Haves

Master’s degree or higher in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Propulsion Engineering, or a related field.
At least 7 years of propulsion engineering experience, with extensive experience in aerospace or space technology.
Experience with spacecraft propulsion systems.
Expertise in advanced propulsion technologies, including high-performance engines, in-space propulsion, and propulsion system integration.
Familiarity with cutting-edge testing and validation techniques.
Relevant propulsion engineering or project management certifications, such as PMP.
Extensive aerospace or space technology industry experience and familiarity with the requirements and challenges of propulsion systems for space missions.
A proven track record of driving innovation in propulsion system design and implementation.
Experience owning or working on large-scale cryogenic propellant vehicles.

Responsibilities

Develop propulsion system designs based on high-level mission requirements and drive execution from subsystem selection through launch.
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate propulsion systems into spacecraft and satellite platforms and ensure compatibility with other systems and components.
Develop and execute propulsion system test plans; conduct performance and reliability testing to validate functionality and compliance with specifications.
Analyze propulsion system performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement optimization strategies.
Prepare and maintain accurate documentation, including design specifications, test reports, and technical manuals, in compliance with company standards.
Manage complex engineering projects, including defining scope, timelines, and resources, and ensuring quality and performance standards are met.
Troubleshoot and resolve complex technical issues.