Propellant Chemistry Lab Lead - Propulsion Innovation

Vaya Space; Town of Florida (NY); On-site; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Vaya Space, based on Florida’s Space Coast, seeks a Laboratory Lead - Propellant Chemistry to oversee laboratory operations supporting propulsion materials development, testing, and production.

The role requires supervising staff, managing hazardous materials, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance, and collaborating with propulsion engineers, manufacturing, and leadership to scale capabilities for internal and customer-funded programs.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in chemistry, chemical engineering, materials science, aerospace engineering, or related technical discipline.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience leading or supervising a technical laboratory.

Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day laboratory operations for propulsion and materials development programs.
• Supervise laboratory personnel, technicians, interns, and support staff.
• Establish and improve laboratory procedures, work instructions, and controls.
• Manage schedules, equipment utilization, maintenance, calibration, and procurement.
• Ensure laboratory readiness for development, qualification, and production support activities.
• Support safety programs, training, and regulatory compliance.
• Lead hazardous waste management and environmental compliance activities.
• Support proposal content and regulatory interactions as needed.

Skills

Laboratory leadership

Regulatory compliance

Hazardous materials handling

Technical writing

Project management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in chemistry or related technical field

Master’s degree preferred

Tools

OSHA/EPA compliance programs

Job description

Vaya Space, based on Florida’s Space Coast, seeks a Laboratory Lead - Propellant Chemistry to oversee laboratory operations supporting propulsion materials development, testing, and production.

The role requires supervising staff, managing hazardous materials, ensuring safety and regulatory compliance, and collaborating with propulsion engineers, manufacturing, and leadership to scale capabilities for internal and customer-funded programs.