Sr. Combustion Engineer

Arbor Energy • El Segundo, CA

10d • $150,000 - $170,000

About The Position

The Sr. Combustion Engineer helps pioneer our rocket-inspired, high-pressure combustion systems for carbon-neutral and carbon-negative power cycles. In this role, you’ll lead end-to-end development of cutting-edge, high-efficiency combustion devices in a fast-paced, collaborative environment. You will partner closely with test engineers, analysts, and designers to push boundaries—delivering breakthrough performance that powers a sustainable future.

From conceptual design and modeling to hands-on testing and rapid iteration, you'll own the full hardware lifecycle.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical engineering, or related field
• 7+ years of experience in combustion system design, analysis, and testing
• Comprehensive understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer
• Hands-on experience with high-temperature and pressure equipment
• Demonstrated ability to own the product lifecycle from conceptual design to validation
• Curious, inventive, and entrepreneurial mindset comfortable driving progress

Nice To Haves

• Advanced degree (M.S. or Ph.D.) in Mechanical, Aerospace, or Chemical engineering
• Hands-on experience with hot-fire testing and high-pressure systems in rocket or gas turbine environments
• Programming or scripting skills for data reduction and automation (Python, MATLAB, etc.)
• Background in startup environments or agile hardware development cycles

Responsibilities

• Lead the clean-sheet design and analysis of advanced oxy-fuel combustion systems, delivering breakthrough performance from concept to reality
• Plan, execute, and analyze high-pressure and temperature test campaigns, delivering actionable insights to accelerate progress
• Guide system configuration and drive performance optimization for maximum efficiency and reliability
• Own rapid hardware development cycles—from manufacturing and assembly through testing and iterative improvements
• Leverage additive manufacturing and state-of-the-art simulation tools to accelerate innovation and reduce development timelines
• Champion continuous improvement by proposing and implementing design upgrades

Benefits

• Pre-IPO stock options
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (Arbor covers 90% for employees)
• Basic life insurance fully covered
• Health savings account (HSA) with matching
• Flexible savings account (FSA)
• Unlimited PTO
• 12+ company holidays, including Earth Day!
• 401(k)
• Commuter benefits
• Annual learning and development stipend
• And more!

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 11-50 employees