Propulsion Component Responsible Engineer - Contract

As a Propulsion Component Responsible Engineer you will own the development of flight-critical mechanical and fluid system components, including valves, actuators, and integrated propulsion hardware. You will be responsible for taking hardware from clean-sheet design through build, test, qualification, and production, working in close collaboration with propulsion and vehicle teams. Your work will directly support systems operating in high-pressure, high-temperature, and dynamic flight environments.

Responsibilities:

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

Design for extreme environments, including high pressure, temperature, and transient operating conditions

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

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

Support hardware through rapid build–test–iterate cycles

Lead troubleshooting and root cause analysis during development and test

Work with propulsion and vehicle system owners to define requirements, interfaces, and integration strategies

Perform system-level sizing, architecture, and design trades

Lead development testing, qualification, and acceptance of flight hardware

Support transition from prototype to repeatable, production-ready designs

Define operational limits and ensure reliability and safety across all phases of use

Make risk-informed engineering decisions aligned with program goals and timelines

Prioritize work effectively in a fast-paced, evolving development environment

Requirements

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

5+ years of experience developing mechanical or propulsion-related hardware

Experience contributing to hardware through design, build, and test cycles

Strong fundamentals in fluids, thermodynamics, mechanics, and materials

Hands-on experience with mechanical design, assembly, or integration

Preferred Skills and Qualifications

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

Experience designing components such as valves, actuators, or fluid control hardware

Familiarity with high-temperature materials, sealing strategies, and failure modes

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

Experience supporting hardware testing and resolving real-world failures

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

Experience working in rapid hardware development environments (startup or flight programs)

Scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for analysis or automation

Additional Requirements:

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

Ability to support extended hours during critical test campaigns

Willingness to travel to support hardware builds and flight tests

Must be eligible to access export-controlled information