Propulsion Systems Engineer II — Ground Fluids

Varda Space Industries; El Segundo (CA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 153,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible PTO

Company-paid Medical, Dental, and Vis.

Parental leave

Relocation support

401(k) with employer match

Stock options

Job summary

Varda Space Industries in El Segundo, CA, is seeking a Propulsion Engineer II - Ground Fluids to own end-to-end ground fluid systems across spacecraft programs. You will define architecture, P&IDs, and build/test activities, and lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple sites.

The role requires hands-on propulsion fluid system design experience, CAD/PLM proficiency, and strong technical leadership. On-site work with competitive benefits and growth opportunities.

Qualifications

• B.S. in Aerospace or Mechanical Engineering, or equivalent experience (1–3+ years)
• 1+ years hands-on propulsion fluid system design, build, and test for spacecraft/launch vehicles
• Deep knowledge of fluid system hardware: pressurized components, tubing, fittings, seals, valves, instrumentation
• Experience authoring and executing ground test or flight campaigns
• Proficiency in reading and authoring Piping and Instrumentation Diagrams (P&IDs)
• Hands-on experience with fluid system manufacturing processes and installation methods
• Proficiency with CAD tools and PLM software

Responsibilities

• Own ground fluid systems end-to-end: architecture, P&IDs, mechanical design, fabrication, and operations — spanning satellite bus GSE, thruster development test stands, and component acceptance test hardware
• Lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple Varda facilities, maintaining the highest standards of safety, efficiency, and mission readiness
• Define and continuously improve Varda's propellant handling processes, ensuring all commodities meet flight specifications
• Drive the ground fluids roadmap: identify capability gaps, prioritize investments, and help build out the team
• Author and maintain technical standards, work instructions, assembly procedures, and engineering documentation used across the propulsion organization
• Mentor junior and mid-level engineers; serve as the primary technical reviewer for ground fluids work products
• Represent ground fluids in cross-functional design reviews, launch site coordination meetings, and partner discussions
• Serve as the final technical escalation point for complex fluid system problems — and drive them to closure

Skills

Propulsion fluid system design

P&IDs reading/writing

CAD tools

Ground test/flight procedures

Experience with 91-710 range safety

Education

B.S. in Aerospace Engineering

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering

Tools

CAD software

PLM software

Job description

Varda Space Industries in El Segundo, CA, is seeking a Propulsion Engineer II - Ground Fluids to own end-to-end ground fluid systems across spacecraft programs. You will define architecture, P&IDs, and build/test activities, and lead propellant loading campaigns across multiple sites.

The role requires hands-on propulsion fluid system design experience, CAD/PLM proficiency, and strong technical leadership. On-site work with competitive benefits and growth opportunities.