Lead Space Propulsion Engineer — Hands-On Tech Leader

EVONA (United States); Pleasanton (CA); On-site; USD 114,000 - 190,000; Full time

Job summary

EVONA is seeking a Lead Propulsion Development Engineer to spearhead the development of chemical propulsion engines for space applications. You will own propulsion hardware from concept through qualification and flight support, balancing ~70% engineering with ~30% people management in a hands-on leadership role.

The position involves leading a team of about 10 propulsion engineers, performing thermal and fluid analyses, and collaborating across design and test teams to deliver flight-ready

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience designing rocket engines, combustion devices, or propulsion hardware.
• Experience with 3D CAD tools (SolidWorks, Creo or NX).
• Strong understanding of thermodynamics, compressible flow and fluid systems.
• Experience leading engineers or stepping into a hands-on technical management role.

Responsibilities

• Lead end-to-end development of chemical propulsion engines from requirements through design, build, testing and qualification.
• Mentor a team of propulsion engineers (~10) while staying hands-on.
• Oversee design of combustion components, engine assemblies and propulsion hardware.
• Perform thermal, fluid and structural analyses and create pressure budgets/heat transfer calculations.
• Lead development and qualification testing including test planning and troubleshooting.
• Collaborate with mechanical design, production and test teams to deliver flight-ready hardware.
• Serve as technical point of contact for customers and influence future propulsion designs.

Skills

Rocket engine design

3D CAD

GD&T

Engineering leadership

Education

Bachelor's or Master's in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering

Tools

ANSYS

Thermal Desktop

Job description

EVONA is seeking a Lead Propulsion Development Engineer to spearhead the development of chemical propulsion engines for space applications. You will own propulsion hardware from concept through qualification and flight support, balancing ~70% engineering with ~30% people management in a hands-on leadership role.

The position involves leading a team of about 10 propulsion engineers, performing thermal and fluid analyses, and collaborating across design and test teams to deliver flight-ready