Propulsion & Energetics Engineer - Principal

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

Job summary

Astra CoreX, Inc. is seeking a Principal Propulsion & Energetics Engineer to lead the propellant development for our high-speed ramjet/rocket interceptor programs.

You will develop, mix, test, and qualify solid propellants including AP-based booster grains. This role involves building the Propellant & Energetics division within the Engineering Team, leading formulation, testing, and ensuring safety, compliance, and traceability across lab operations.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Energetics.
• 10+ years of experience in solid propellant development.
• U.S. citizen with eligibility for government security clearance.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Build the Propellant & Energetics division within the Engineering Team of ACX.
• Lead and support the formulation and mixing of AP/HTPB based propellants.
• Lead the development of rocket propellants and fuels for air-breathing combustors.
• Lead the conduction of rheology, cure kinetics, and mechanical property testing.
• Plan and lead casting trials, vacuum degassing, and tooling development.
• Manage lab safety, ATF/OSHA compliance, and traceability.

Skills

Propellant development

Chemical engineering

Technical communication

Security clearance eligibility

Education

Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Energetics

Master's or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Energetics

Job description

Clearance: U.S. Citizenship Required (ITAR/DoW Programs)

About the Role

Astra CoreX, Inc. (ACX) is seeking a Principal Propulsion & Energetics Engineer to lead the propellant development for our highspeed combined ramjet/rocket missile interceptors. You will be responsible for developing, mixing, testing, and qualifying solid propellants including AP-based booster grains.

Key Responsibilities

• Build the Propellant & Energetics division within the Engineering Team of ACX.
• Lead and support the formulation and mixing of AP/HTPB based propellants.
• Lead the development of rocket propellants and fuels for air-breathing combustors.
• Lead the conduction of rheology, cure kinetics, and mechanical property testing.
• Plan and lead casting trials, vacuum degassing, and tooling development.
• Manage lab safety, ATF/OSHA compliance, and traceability.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Energetics.
• 10+ years of experience in solid propellant development.
• Deep understanding of metal fuel combustion.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• U.S. citizen with eligibility for government security clearance.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master’s or Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Materials Science, or Energetics.
• 15+ years of experience in solid propellant development.
• Experience in ducted rocket fuels or metallized ramjet formulations.
• Experience scaling bath size or optimizing cure cycles.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Active U.S. government security clearance.

Salary Range

• $150k-$200k

ACX offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes group Medical, Dental, Life, and Short and Long-Term disability coverage from day one. We also offer a generous 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan with a Company match. Every role at ACX is bonus eligible.

ACX is committed to full compliance with applicable anti-discrimination laws. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We strive to create an inclusive work environment and will not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.