Fluids Engineer- Test & Launch

LEAP; Broomfield (CO); Hybrid; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Equity Program

401(k) Plan

Professional development stipend

Flexible PTO

Hybrid work

Medical/Dental/Vision

Job summary

LEAP in Colorado is seeking a Fluids Engineer – Test & Launch to design, analyze, integrate, and commission fluid systems for rocket engine test stands and launch facilities. You will develop the ground infrastructure to safely store, condition, transfer, and control cryogenic and high‑energy fluids.

Work with GSE, Automation, Mechanical, Facilities, and Operations to design piping, panels, and instrumentation; lead safety reviews (HAZOPs/FMEAs) and bring systems from concept to commissioning.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical, Aerospace, Chemical Engineering or related field.
• 5–10+ years designing industrial or aerospace fluid systems.
• Experience with cryogenic and high-pressure piping.

Responsibilities

• Design fluid systems for rocket engine test stands and launch facilities.
• Size and select piping, tubing, valves, regulators, filters, and related components.
• Design fluid panels, valve manifolds, and process skids.
• Define system interfaces with test stands, launch pads, storage vessels, and utility infrastructure.
• Lead and participate in HAZOPs and FMECAs.
• Identify and mitigate hazards in cryogenic, high‑pressure, and flammable fluid systems.
• Develop pressure tests, leak checks, purge, and operational procedures.
• Support startup, acceptance testing, and troubleshooting.

Skills

Cryogenic systems

High-pressure piping

Process instrumentation

Valve selection

HAZOP / FMEA

Troubleshooting

Debugging

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering

Tools

NX Mechanical

ASME B31.3

Job description

• The Fluids Engineer – Test & Launch is responsible for the design, analysis, integration, and commissioning of fluid systems supporting rocket engine testing and launch operations. This role develops the ground infrastructure required to safely store, condition, transfer, and control cryogenic, gaseous, and utility fluids used throughout the test and launch lifecycle. Working closely with Ground Support Equipment (GSE), Automation, Mechanical, Facilities, and Operations teams, the Fluids Engineer designs piping systems, process panels, instrumentation layouts, and control architectures that enable safe, reliable, and repeatable operations. The ideal candidate has experience designing industrial process piping and fluid systems for hazardous or high-energy applications and is comfortable taking systems from concept through commissioning.

Core Responsibilities

• Design fluid systems supporting rocket engine test stands and launch facilities.
• Size and select piping, tubing, valves, regulators, filters, and associated components.
• Design fluid panels, valve manifolds, and process skids.
• Define system interfaces with test stands, launch pads, storage vessels, and utility infrastructure.
• Lead and participate in HAZOPs and/or FMECAs
• Identify and mitigate hazards associated with cryogenic, high-pressure, and flammable fluid systems.
• Develop pressure test, leak check, purge, and operational procedures.
• Support system startup, acceptance testing, and troubleshooting.

What You Bring to the Team

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Chemical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline.
• 5–10+ years of experience designing industrial or aerospace fluid systems.
• Strong understanding of:
• Cryogenic systems
• High-pressure piping systems
• Process instrumentation
• Experience selecting valves, regulators, instrumentation, and piping components.
• Experience leading or participating in HAZOPs, FMEAs, or other formal design safety reviews.
• Strong troubleshooting and debugging skills.

Bonus Points

• Experience supporting rocket engine testing or launch operations.
• Experience designing cryogenic systems for LOX, LN₂, methane, ethane, hydrogen, or other industrial gases.
• Experience with CAD tools for piping design (NX Mechanical preferred)
• Familiarity with ASME B31.3 Process Piping and applicable pressure system codes.
• Experience containerizing mobile fluids systems for remote launch operations.

Compensation

Salary Range: $140,000 - $190,000

The estimated salary range for this role reflects various compensation factors. The final offer depends on factors such as work experience, education, training, key skills, and business needs.

In addition, LEAP provides a comprehensive benefits package for full-time employees, which includes:

• Equity Program: As an early team member, LEAP’s equity plan gives you a stake in the company’s success, aligning your contributions with long-term growth.
• Retirement Planning: Save for the future with a 401(k) plan that includes competitive company matching.
• Growth Opportunities: Take advantage of a professional development stipend to advance your skills and expertise.
• Flexible Time Off: Enjoy PTO as needed and holiday breaks to help you balance work and life, including two week long company winter breaks and paid leave to support a family member, bond with a new child, or manage your own health needs
• Remote Work Flexibility: Our team operates on a hybrid model. We expect you to work with your team for specific details on work location.
• Health Benefits: LEAP provides comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage at minimal to no cost for employees. Coverage for dependents and HSA are also available.
• Insurance Coverage: We cover basic life and long-term disability insurance, with options to add extra coverage to ensure peace of mind for you and your family.

LEAP is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace in Colorado. Our team brings together exceptionally talented and diverse individuals who are pushing the boundaries of space access and logistics. We welcome all qualified applicants and provide equal consideration for employment regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, Veteran status, age, or any other protected characteristic under federal, state, or local law. This includes individuals with a criminal history, in compliance with applicable regulations. We actively encourage applications from minorities, women, Veterans, and people with disabilities. At LEAP, we strive to create a supportive and welcoming environment throughout the hiring process. If you’re excited about making a real-world impact in space technology, we want to hear from you!