Lead Vehicle Design Engineer – Propulsion & Systems

Astra Core-X; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental, Life, and disability

401(k) with company match

Bonus eligible

Job summary

Astra Core-X in the Denver metropolitan area is seeking a Principal Vehicle Design Engineer to lead the design of high-Mach propulsion systems for flight vehicles. This on-site role requires defining interfaces, ensuring system compatibility, and coordinating with propulsion, structures, avionics, and software teams.

You will perform system-level analyses, develop integration plans, review designs and test data, mentor engineers, and support customer reviews with clear documentation and

Qualifications

• B.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering is required.
• 10+ years of experience in aerospace vehicle design or systems integration.
• Experience with propulsion systems, missiles, or launch vehicles.
• Strong systems thinking with integration deliverables (ICDs, PODs, integration plans).

Responsibilities

• Lead vehicle-level design and integration of propulsion, controls, aerodynamics, structures, and avionics.
• Develop and maintain architecture models, mass properties, center of gravity margins.
• Perform trade studies and requirements allocations for performance, weight, and space.
• Create system level 3-D CAD assemblies for integration reviews.
• Coordinate with component leads to manage interfaces.
• Establish systems engineering artifacts (requirements, verification matrix, ICDs).
• Support simulation activities with input to GNC and CFD teams.
• Participate in design reviews, hazard analyses, and test readiness reviews.

Skills

System thinking

MBSE

Education

B.S. in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering

M.S. or PhD in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering

Tools

SolidWorks

CREO

NX

CATIA

Job description

Astra Core-X in the Denver metropolitan area is seeking a Principal Vehicle Design Engineer to lead the design of high-Mach propulsion systems for flight vehicles. This on-site role requires defining interfaces, ensuring system compatibility, and coordinating with propulsion, structures, avionics, and software teams.

You will perform system-level analyses, develop integration plans, review designs and test data, mentor engineers, and support customer reviews with clear documentation and