Propulsion Manufacturing Engineer II, Combustion Devices

ZipRecruiter; Long Beach (CA); On-site; USD 112,000 - 143,000; Full time

Job summary

An innovative aerospace company is looking for a Propulsion Manufacturing Engineer to join their dynamic team. This role offers an exciting opportunity to work on cutting-edge technology, contributing to the development of advanced propulsion systems for reusable rockets. You will play a key role in ensuring that manufacturing processes meet high standards of quality and efficiency, while also leading projects from concept to production. If you are passionate about aerospace and thrive in a collaborative environment, this position is perfect for you. Join us and help shape the future of space exploration!

Benefits

Generous PTO and Sick Leave

Parental Leave

Annual Learning Stipend

Equity Options

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience with thrust chamber assemblies or similar hardware.
• Proficiency in investigating and resolving hardware non-conformances.

Responsibilities

• Develop processes for fabricating and testing critical hardware.
• Project-manage hardware through various manufacturing stages.

Skills

Thrust Chamber Assembly

Failure Investigations

Root Cause Analysis

Tolerance Analysis

Problem Solving

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Tools

Modeling Software

Drafting Tools

Job description

Job Description

At Relativity Space, we have two audacious goals: to build the next great commercial launch company with Terran R and to become America's leading force in additive manufacturing innovation. Both contribute to our long-term vision of creating humanity's industrial base on Mars, paving the way for interplanetary life to expand the possibilities of the human experience. This journey begins right here on Earth – where we design, build, and fly rockets to deliver customer payloads to orbit. Terran R, our medium-to-heavy lift reusable rocket, fulfills the growing demand for launch capacity, thanks to our iterative approach that accelerates design, testing, and development while minimizing costs. Our groundbreaking research and development in 3D printing push the boundaries of large-scale additive manufacturing.

Your journey with us is more than just a job – it's an opportunity to shape the future of aerospace technology, additive manufacturing, and the human experience alongside a community of passionate, creative individuals. Join us on this extraordinary journey, as we work together to transform our vision into reality.

About the Team:

The mission of the Engine Manufacturing Department is to deliver high-performing products and innovative manufacturing systems while driving continuous improvements in cost, quality, and lead time. Through cross-functional collaboration, high levels of accountability, and a focus on safety, we play a crucial role in building our reusable rocket, Terran-R. We are responsible for providing design feedback on hardware iterations, pioneering advanced manufacturing methods and systems, and delivering engine and vehicle hardware for testing prior to launch. Over the past year, the team has successfully developed, iterated, and delivered processes and hardware for the first Aeon-R development engines. We are now entering a critical phase: producing flight engines for Terran-R's inaugural launch.

About the Role:

We are seeking a talented Propulsion Manufacturing Engineer to contribute to the development of Aeon-R Thrust Chamber Assembly hardware and manufacturing processes for the Terran-R vehicle. The role requires a high degree of autonomy, accountability, and initiative. You will own manufacturing trades, develop processes for fabricating, testing, and delivering critical hardware and subassemblies, and serve as the primary liaison between manufacturing and design teams. Your focus will be on manufacturability, integration, and ensuring hardware meets design specifications. You will project-manage hardware through various manufacturing stages, develop post-processing procedures, and recommend design modifications to enhance reliability and throughput. Passion, tenacity, and problem-solving skills are essential, especially when working with complex 3D printed and machined components.

About You:

• Bachelor's Degree in engineering or related technical field and 3+ years of experience with thrust chamber assemblies or similar hardware
• Proficiency in investigating, resolving, and screening hardware non-conformances
• Experience leading failure investigations, root cause analysis, and corrective actions
• Ability to work with and train technicians
• Knowledge of assembly and test procedures, including tolerance analysis, structural proof testing, and leak checks
• Experience with tooling design, modeling, drafting, and analysis

Nice to Have:

• Knowledge of casting and forging processes, including DFM considerations
• Track record of leading complex manufacturing projects from concept to qualification/production
• Experience in team leadership and project management
• Weld engineering experience, including joint design, process qualification, and NDE

At Relativity Space, we are committed to transparency and fairness in compensation. Actual salary will depend on experience and qualifications. Our total rewards include competitive salary and equity, generous PTO and sick leave, parental leave, an annual learning stipend, and more. For details, visit our benefits page.

Hiring Range: $112,000—$143,000 USD

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, marital status, veteran status, or other protected classes.