Lead Propulsion Component Engineer

As a Lead Propulsion Component Engineer you will own the development of flight-critical propulsion components—including valves, actuators, and high-performance mechanical systems operating in extreme thermal and pressure environments. This is a player–coach role: you will directly design and deliver hardware while leading a small team of engineers. You will own components from clean-sheet design through test, qualification, and flight, and your hardware will move quickly from concept to real-world operation.

Responsibilities

Own propulsion components (e.g., high-pressure valves, actuation systems, and fluid control hardware) from concept through flight qualification

Design for extreme environments including high temperature, pressure, and dynamic loading

Drive trade studies across performance, manufacturability, reliability, and testability

Execute clean-sheet design, analysis, and integration of propulsion hardware

Lead development through rapid build–test–iterate cycles

Support and troubleshoot hardware during ground and flight test campaigns

Lead and mentor a team of 2–5 engineers, setting technical direction and execution priorities

Review designs, guide engineering decisions, and ensure high technical standards

Act as the Responsible Engineer for critical flight hardware

Work closely with propulsion, structures, and vehicle teams to integrate components into engine and vehicle systems

Define system requirements, interfaces, and operational limits

Drive transition from prototype to repeatable, production-ready hardware

Develop assembly, test, and acceptance strategies for reliable delivery

Basic Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field

7+ years of experience developing mechanical or propulsion hardware

Demonstrated experience owning hardware from concept through test or production

Strong fundamentals in fluids, thermodynamics, mechanics, and materials

Hands-on experience with design, build, and integration of mechanical systems

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

Experience with propulsion systems, high-pressure fluid systems, or aerospace mechanisms

Experience designing components such as valves, actuators, turbomachinery-adjacent hardware, or fluid control systems

Familiarity with high-temperature materials and sealing strategies

Strong knowledge of GD&T, tolerance stack-up, and precision assemblies

Experience with rapid development environments (startup or flight hardware programs)

Proficiency with CAD tools (NX preferred) and analysis tools (ANSYS or similar)

Experience supporting hardware through test campaigns and resolving real-world failures

Additional Requirements

Willingness to work hands-on in build, integration, and test environments

Ability to support extended hours during critical test and flight operations

Willingness to travel to test sites as needed

Must be eligible to access export-controlled information