Propulsion Engineer – Hypersonic & Missile Systems (SME

Aurex; Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 180,000 - 210,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Top-tier salary

Comprehensive benefits

Growth opportunities

Job summary

Aurex in Huntsville, AL, seeks a Senior Propulsion Engineer to lead propulsion systems on next-generation hypersonic and missile programs. You will architect clean-sheet designs, oversee propulsion analysis, and lead manufacturing and testing processes to deliver flight-ready systems including solid rocket motors and reaction control systems.

The role requires extensive hands-on propulsion experience, DoD security clearance, and the ability to lead a team under aggressive schedules.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or higher in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• Minimum 20 years of propulsion systems experience.
• Active DoD Secret Clearance required.
• In-person work at our corporate headquarters in Huntsville, AL.

Responsibilities

• Architect and design clean-sheet propulsion and reaction control systems using a lean requirements approach.
• Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and technical drawings to support manufacturing and integration.
• Perform and lead propulsion analysis for solid, cold-gas, mono-propellant, and bi-propellant systems.
• Develop processes and procedures for manufacturing, integration, and testing of propulsion systems.
• Develop integration and test plans for hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) propulsion systems.
• Select and source propulsion components from both traditional and non-traditional suppliers.
• Lead a team through design, build, test, and delivery of propulsion systems to customers on accelerated timelines.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration of propulsion systems into hypersonic and missile platforms.

Skills

Strong communication

Leadership

Team leadership

Hands-on experience

Propulsion systems

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field

Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a relevant field

Tools

Thermal Desktop

Job description

Don't Wait for the Future. Build it Here.

We seek the curious, the brilliant, and the relentless. If you’re driven to solve complex problems, operate at the edge of technology, and make systems smarter, faster, and safer, you’ll find a home here. Advance your career in a company that builds for what's next.

Culture of Excellence

Grit, Growth, and Great People

We’re a team of high performers who don’t settle. Our culture rewards curiosity, integrity, and results—without the ego. You’ll be surrounded by people who challenge you, support you, and celebrate your wins. We work hard, solve big problems, and have each other’s backs.

More Than a Paycheck

We believe exceptional work deserves exceptional rewards. Our total compensation goes beyond base pay to include robust benefits, performance incentives, and investment in your future. From health and retirement to career development and time off—you’ll have what you need to thrive, in and out of the office.

Growth Without Limits

Start Strong. Keep Climbing.

From entry-level engineers to mission program leads, we create space for every employee to thrive. Our work is complex, our standards are high, and our support systems are built to help you rise—wherever you're starting from.

People at Aurex

“I enjoy working at Aurex for the innovative environment and strong focus on work-life balance… The company values creativity, supports professional growth, and fosters collaboration. I feel empowered to make a difference, both through meaningful projects and through volunteering in my community.”

People at Aurex

“I love being part of the platform because it offers the resources and opportunities of a larger company while maintaining a tight-knit, small company culture. What motivates me most is the environment it creates, one that supports me in growing professionally, academically, and personally.”

jacob Ballentine
Junior Reverse Engineer

People at Aurex

“What I love about working with Aurex is that I always feel valued and appreciated, and that work never goes unrecognized … Another thing I love is that, though small, Aurex offers tremendous expertise in various fields … Finally, the diversity of projects and partners means … many different opportunities—you will be helping to create history.”

Nathaniel DeCecco

Mechanical Engineer

People at Aurex

“What I like most about the company is the strong sense of community… It truly feels like a place where I belong. I’m motivated by the chance to grow, learn, and take on new challenges… Being part of a passionate, driven team makes every day rewarding.”

People at Aurex

“I appreciate that our company focuses on growth and innovation in aerospace… I’m motivated by solving complex challenges and building reliable software for launch operations. It’s rewarding to know our voice system is used by the government and major contractors—making a real impact. What a dream!”

Astrid Leighton
Software Engineer

Find Open Positions

Propulsion Engineer – Hypersonic & Missile Systems (SME

Propulsion Engineer – Hypersonic & Missile Systems (SME)

Who We Are

Aurex is a mission-focused aerospace and defense company building the next frontier of deterrence. From hypersonics and missile defense to hardened networks and orbital systems, we design, test, and deliver the platforms that turn unproven ideas into battlefield-ready capability.

Born in Huntsville and built for speed, Aurex brings together aerospace veterans, combat-tested operators, and forward-leaning technologists to solve problems that matter—fast. We move from whiteboard to warfighter with precision, clarity, and zero tolerance for fluff.

Job Summary

We are looking for a senior Propulsion Engineer to serve as the Subject Matter Expert and team lead for propulsion systems on next-generation hypersonic and missile programs. The ideal candidate will architect clean-sheet designs, perform and oversee propulsion analysis, develop manufacturing and test processes, and deliver flight-ready systems that include solid rocket motors, cold-gas systems, and mono- and bi-propellant reaction control systems. This position demands extensive hands-on experience and the ability to lead a team through design, integration, and test under demanding schedules.

Responsibilities

• Architect and design clean-sheet propulsion and reaction control systems using a lean requirements approach.
• Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and technical drawings to support manufacturing and integration.
• Perform and lead propulsion analysis for solid, cold-gas, mono-propellant, and bi-propellant systems.
• Develop processes and procedures for manufacturing, integration, and testing of propulsion systems.
• Develop integration and test plans for hardware-in-the-loop (HWIL) propulsion systems.
• Select and source propulsion components from both traditional and non-traditional suppliers.
• Lead a team through design, build, test, and delivery of propulsion systems to customers on accelerated timelines.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure seamless integration of propulsion systems into hypersonic and missile platforms.

Basic Qualifications

• Active DoD Secret Clearance required
• Work in person at our corporate headquarters in Huntsville, AL.
• One of the following:
  • Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field with relevant industry experience
  • Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a relevant field with experience applying knowledge to real-world systems
• A minimum of 20 years of industry experience in propulsion systems for aerospace or defense applications.
• Strong proficiency in cold-gas systems, water hammer analysis, and solid rocket systems.
• Hands-on experience with thermal analysis tools such as Thermal Desktop.
• Demonstrated experience testing various propulsion systems.
• Knowledge of the current U.S.-based propulsion supply chain.
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and leadership skills to lead multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience with aerospace regulatory standards and certification processes is a plus.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Missile Defense Agency (MDA) requirements and processes.
• Familiarity with Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for coupled thermal-structural simulations.
• Knowledge of high-temperature materials (ceramics, composites, ablative coatings) as they relate to propulsion systems.
• Experience in high-temperature testing or simulation of aerospace components.
• Understanding of orbital mechanics and space environment effects on propulsion systems.

What we offer

• The opportunity to lead development of next-generation hypersonic and missile propulsion systems with real-world impact.
• A collaborative and fast-paced work environment with passionate engineers.
• Top-tier salary and benefits package.
• Continuous learning and growth opportunities.

How You Will Be Rewarded

The salary range for this role is $180,000 - $210,000 annually. We offer a comprehensive total rewards approach to compensation, providing incentives and benefits that extend far beyond the base salary. Compensation is determined by the candidate’s work experience, education, training, and relevant skills. We offer a competitive benefits package designed to support our employees' health, well-being, and professional growth.

Job Location: Huntsville, AL

Aurex is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It prohibits discrimination, retaliation, or any type of harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, citizenship, immigration status, or any other legally protected status in employment, including in hiring, firing, and recruiting decisions. All applicants must be authorized to work lawfully in the United States for positions at Aurex. There may be limited circumstances in which a law, regulation, executive order, or government contract would require certain citizenship; only in those limited circumstances would Aurex require certain citizenship status to comply with the relevant law, regulation, executive order, or government contract applicable to that position. For all other positions, Aurex does not consider an applicant’s citizenship but only requires that the applicant be authorized to work lawfully in the United States. If a position is one that falls under export control laws and regulations requiring authorization from the U.S. government to access export‑controlled items, any hiring is contingent on the applicant passing the export compliance assessment, which is separate from the I‑9 process, for that specific position. A background check will be required prior to any hire.

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