Lead Propulsion Engineer

EVONA; Fremont (CA); On-site; USD 140,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare

401(k) matching

Flexible working hours

Unlimited PTO

Job summary

EVONA is seeking an experienced Lead Propulsion Development Engineer to own spacecraft propulsion engines from concept to qualification and flight. You will lead hands-on design, prototyping, and testing while mentoring a team of propulsion engineers in a fast-paced environment.

You will apply your expertise in thermodynamics, compressible flow and heat transfer, and collaborate with CAD teams using SolidWorks, NX, or Creo to advance next‑gen propulsion technology.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of rocket engine or combustion device design experience.
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, compressible flow and heat transfer.
• Hands-on experience with propulsion hardware and testing.
• Experience with spacecraft propulsion or high-pressure fluid systems is a bonus.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design, development and testing of spacecraft propulsion engines.
• Own engine hardware from concept through qualification.
• Perform thermal, fluid dynamics and structural analysis.
• Lead development and qualification test campaigns.
• Mentor propulsion engineers and drive new propulsion technologies.

Skills

Propulsion leadership

Propulsion engineering

Thermodynamics

CFD

CAD software

Tools

SolidWorks

NX/Creo

Job description

I'm partnering with an innovative space technology company looking for an experienced Lead Propulsion Development Engineer to join their growing team.

This is a fantastic opportunity for someone passionate about rocket engines, propulsion technology and hands-on engineering.

You'll take full ownership of spacecraft propulsion engines, leading everything from initial concept and mechanical design through prototyping, hot-fire testing, qualification and flight.

You'll also have the opportunity to lead and mentor a team of propulsion engineers while playing a key role in shaping the next generation of spacecraft propulsion technology.

What you'll be doing:

• Leading the design, development and testing of spacecraft propulsion engines
• Taking ownership of engine hardware from concept through qualification
• Performing thermal, fluid dynamics and structural analysis
• Leading development and qualification test campaigns
• Working hands-on with prototype hardware and supporting rapid design iterations
• Managing and mentoring propulsion engineers
• Driving new propulsion technologies and engine architecture

What we're looking for:

• 5+ years of rocket engine or combustion device design experience
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, compressible flow and heat transfer
• Experience with CAD software such as SolidWorks, NX or Creo
• Hands-on experience with propulsion hardware and testing
• Previous technical leadership or people management experience
• Experience with spacecraft propulsion or high-pressure fluid systems is a bonus

Why consider this opportunity?

You'll be joining a fast-paced, ambitious engineering team where you'll have genuine ownership of propulsion products, work directly with flight hardware and influence the future direction of engine development.

The company offers comprehensive healthcare, 401(k) matching, flexible working hours and unlimited PTO.