Propulsion Manager

EVONA; Denver (CO); On-site; USD 100,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

An established aerospace organization is seeking a senior Electric Propulsion Team Lead in Denver, Colorado. This hands-on technical leadership role involves owning the design, analysis, and testing of advanced electric propulsion systems, focusing on Hall-effect thrusters. The ideal candidate will have over 7 years of experience in propulsion system development and expert knowledge in the propulsion lifecycle. This position allows significant influence over propulsion architecture and offers opportunities to mentor and develop a high-impact engineering team.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in electric propulsion system development.
• Minimum 4 years of direct experience with Hall-effect thrusters.
• Experience across the full propulsion development lifecycle.

Responsibilities

• Lead and technically guide the Hall-effect thruster and propellant systems development team.
• Provide functional management including mentoring and performance reviews.
• Work closely with program management and IPT leads to plan resources.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Mentoring

Technical guidance

Education

Master’s degree in engineering or related technical discipline

Job description

We are partnering with an established and rapidly growing aerospace organization that designs and manufactures electric propulsion systems for small and micro-satellites. Their technologies support space exploration, defense, and commercial space programs, and they operate in a dynamic, project-driven environment within the aerospace and defense sector. The business is part of a larger technology group delivering mission-critical solutions for space and national security applications.

The Opportunity

Our client is seeking a senior Electric Propulsion Team Lead to take ownership of the design, analysis, and testing of advanced electric propulsion systems. This role is centered on sub-kilowatt Hall-effect thrusters, propellant flow control, and pressure management systems.

This is a hands-on technical leadership role suited to an experienced propulsion engineer who enjoys solving complex problems, mentoring teams, and driving programs from concept through flight qualification.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and technically guide the Hall-effect thruster and propellant systems development team
• Provide functional management including mentoring, performance reviews, and career development
• Work closely with program management and IPT leads to plan resources and assign priorities
• Ensure technical integrity through design reviews, analysis oversight, and failure review boards
• Manage the development and use of electric propulsion test facilities
• Define verification, validation, manufacturing, and acceptance test plans
• Support low-cost production strategies and continuous improvement initiatives
• Collaborate with cross-functional subsystem teams across the organization

Required Background

• Master’s degree in engineering or a related technical discipline (or equivalent experience)
• 7+ years of experience in electric propulsion system development, including flight programs
• Minimum 4 years of direct experience with Hall-effect thrusters
• Subject matter expertise in one or more areas of electric thruster development
• Experience across the full propulsion development lifecycle
• Understanding of low-cost manufacturing and acceptance testing
• Proven leadership or mentoring experience
• Strong communication skills and experience designing for the space environment

Why This Role

• Technical leadership with real influence over propulsion architecture and team direction
• Exposure to flight programs supporting defense, commercial, and exploration missions
• Opportunity to grow and shape a high-impact engineering team