Propulsion Mechanical Design Lead

Stratolaunch; California (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 221,000; Full time

Job summary

Join an innovative technology accelerator as a Senior Propulsion Engineer, where you'll lead the design and testing of cutting-edge hypersonic aircraft propulsion systems. This exciting role offers the chance to work on groundbreaking projects that advance national security while collaborating with a talented team. You'll be responsible for the integration and testing of complex aerospace systems, ensuring that your contributions make a significant impact. If you're passionate about engineering and eager to tackle unique challenges in a dynamic environment, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Benefits

Health insurance

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Flexible work hours

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in fluid subsystem and mechanical design is essential.
• Ability to lead and mentor a team of engineers is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead design, integration, testing, and maintenance of propulsion systems.
• Perform structural and thermal analysis of components and assemblies.

Skills

Fluid subsystem design

Mechanical design

Structural engineering

Component testing

Rocket testing

Cryogenic fluid systems

Communication skills

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in Engineering

Tools

Computer Aided Design tools

MS Office

Solidworks

Matlab

Python

Jira

Job description

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch (https://www.stratolaunch.com/) is seeking a Level-II, Senior, or Staff-level Propulsion or Mechanical Engineer to lead design, integration, testing, and maintenance of Talon-A hypersonic aircraft rocket propulsion systems. An ideal candidate will have both mechanical and fluid subsystem component design experience. You will be considered a subject matter expert and provide technical leadership and mentorship to a group of propulsion engineers. This position will include evaluation of a broad range of technical data.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

• Contribute to the development, build, and test of propulsion flight and ground hardware
• Perform structural, fluid, and thermal analysis of mechanical components and/or assemblies
• Create component and assembly drawings for flight and ground test hardware
• Create and maintain work instructions to install flight hardware onto vehicles
• Assist mechanics in integrating all components and assemblies onto the aircraft and/or ground systems
• Order materials and components, as required
• Test propulsion components and/or assemblies to prepare for integrated subsystem testing
• Develop engineering tools, as needed, to complete tasking
• Maintain inventory tracking of critical propulsion components
• Manage supplier relations with key vendors
• Technical ownership of clean rooms
• Management of a small team of direct reports (1:1s, reviews, etc.)
• Manage engineering release schedule in conjunction with shop planning
• Track vehicle propulsion configuration
• Review and release drawings, work instructions, analysis reports, etc.
• Regular and comprehensive communication to the Propulsion Lead
• Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems
• Travel, as needed, to support the department
• Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: fluid subsystem design, mechanical design, structural engineering, component or assembly level mechanical or fluid testing, rocket testing, cryogenic fluid systems, electrical and/or instrumentation experience
• Experience with fluid-mechanical component design and stress analysis
• Experience with 3D CAD modeling of parts and assemblies
• Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to explain rationale and/or resolve concerns
• Ability to work on their own initiative
• Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience creating engineering drawings and work instructions
• Experience leading a team of engineers
• Knowledge of oxygen systems and oxygen cleanliness
• Experience with component-level or subsystem level test planning and execution
• Active TS/SCI security clearance

Required Computer Skills:

• Computer Aided Design tools
• MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook)

Preferred Computer Skills:

• Computer Aided Design tools – Solidworks
• Programming – Matlab or Python
• Familiarity with configuration management systems – Jira (preferred)

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

• Level II - ($80,000-$142,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 4-5 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Sr. Level - ($95.500-$169,500): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Staff Level - ($124,500-$221,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

• Position based in Mojave, CA (https://careers.stratolaunch.com/locations/)
• Travel estimated to be <5%

Applicants must be a US Person to be considered for this role:

To be considered for this position, applicants must be U.S. Persons as defined in 22 C.F.R. 120.67, which includes (a) U.S. citizens; (b) U.S. nationals; (c) U.S. lawful permanent residents; (d) persons granted refugee status; and (e) persons granted asylum.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law:

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf

Job Category: Engineering

Req ID: 140