Propulsion Engineer - Space Systems Design

ZipRecruiter; Thousand Oaks (CA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 145,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a growing propulsion company at the forefront of space and defense technology as a Propulsion Engineer. You will design innovative propulsion systems in a collaborative environment, contributing to projects that have a real-world impact. This role offers immense growth potential within a dynamic R&D atmosphere.

Benefits

Competitive compensation with equity options

9/80 work schedule

Medical, dental & vision insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Qualifications

• 3+ years of hands-on experience with CAD tools in engineering.
• Experience designing components for aerospace or propulsion systems.
• Proficient in GD&T standards and tolerance stack-up analysis.

Responsibilities

• Design and develop rocket propulsion components and systems.
• Create production-ready 3D CAD models and detailed manufacturing drawings.
• Lead design reviews across concept and critical design phases.

Skills

3D CAD

Mechanical Design

Aerospace Manufacturing

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Master's degree in relevant engineering field

Tools

Creo Parametric

Windchill PLM

Job description

Job DescriptionJob Description

Propulsion Engineer Help Shape the Future of Space & Missile Defense Technology at a High-Growth Space Company!

Opportunity Summary

Join a PE-backed space company making waves in both the commercial space and defense sectors. This is your chance to take ownership of impactful propulsion systems that are flying in orbit and serving active missile defense programs. As a Propulsion Engineer, youll be at the center of a fast-paced R&D environment, working with a team that designs, builds, and tests high-performance liquid propulsion thrusters used in orbital maneuvering, deep-space missions, exo-landing, and more. This position offers the opportunity to work cross-functionally across mechanical, thermal, and manufacturing disciplines while contributing to real hardware that gets delivered and flown. We're growing quickly, so there's huge potential to take on leadership, drive innovation, and grow with the company as we scale.

About Us

Were a cutting-edge propulsion company focused on rapid innovation and reliable delivery of liquid propellant thrusters for spacecraft and missile defense platforms. From early-stage ideation through qualification and final delivery, we handle the full lifecycle of propulsion development in-house, combining deep technical experience with agile engineering execution. With customers across defense, civil space, and commercial programs, were committed to advancing propulsion tech that meets the most demanding mission requirements.

Job Duties

• Design and develop rocket propulsion components and systems using principles of thermodynamics, mechanics, and fluid dynamics.
• Create production-ready 3D CAD models and detailed manufacturing drawings with proper dimensioning and tolerance analysis.
• Generate and validate engineering documentation for components, tooling, and test fixtures.
• Lead design reviews across concept, preliminary, and critical design phases.
• Collaborate with internal and external teams to support design-for-manufacturing (DFM) practices and ensure seamless build and test execution.
• Apply advanced GD&T standards (ASME Y14.5) and statistical analysis to validate part compatibility and system integrity.
• Troubleshoot and resolve issues through non-conformance disposition, root cause analysis, and engineering change processes.
• Support production, assembly, and validation testing efforts by providing technical guidance and on-the-floor troubleshooting.
• Mentor junior engineers, promoting a culture of technical excellence and professional growth.
• Occasionally contribute to hands-on tasks including test setup, hardware builds, or supporting urgent program needs.

Qualifications

• Bachelors degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field.
• 3+ years of hands-on experience with 3D CAD tools (Creo Parametric ) in a fast-paced engineering environment.
• Demonstrated experience designing mechanical components, assemblies, and fixtures for aerospace or propulsion systems.
• Familiarity with material selection, aerospace manufacturing processes, and high-temperature or pressure system considerations.
• Proficient in GD&T standards and performing tolerance stack-up analysis.
• Strong communicator with the ability to clearly present technical information to varied audiences.
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment with evolving priorities.

Experience

• Masters degree in a relevant engineering field.
• Experience using Windchill PLM or similar systems for document and revision control.
• Knowledge of additive manufacturing techniques for aerospace applications.
• Direct involvement in rocket propulsion programs (thrusters, engines, or DACS systems).
• Hands-on experience with hardware testing, assembly, and validation processes.

Security Clearance

• Must be able to obtain US Secret clearance.

Why Join Us

• Opportunity to work on both space and defense applications
• Small, growing team with lots of upward mobility
• Highly collaborative environment where your contributions matter
• Competitive compensation with equity options
• 9/80 work schedule
• Medical, dental & vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Mission-driven company delivering hardware that makes a real-world impact

Compensation Details

$85,000 - $145,000