Propulsion Technician

Stratolaunch; Mojave (CA); On-site; USD 32,000 - 49,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid maternity and parental leave

401(k) match up to $11,500

Job summary

Stratolaunch in Mojave, CA is seeking a technician to build and maintain propulsion systems for hypersonic flight vehicles. The ideal candidate will have experience with fluid systems, troubleshooting, and a dedication to safety.

This role involves collaboration with engineers and a willingness to operate heavy machinery. Candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of experience level, with opportunities for growth within the organization.

Qualifications

• Ability to safely work with high pressure gas systems.
• Experience in building and testing fluid/gas systems.
• Mechanical skills: fabrication and systems assembly.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain fluid systems for propulsion.
• Troubleshoot fluid and gas systems maintenance.
• Collaborate with engineers on propulsion related items.

Skills

High pressure gas systems

Plumbing and instrumentation diagrams

Mechanical skills

Rocket systems experience

Tube fitting & bending

Education

High school diploma or equivalency certificate

Airframe & Powerplant license

Job description

Overview

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.

Join a team of technicians building and maintaining propulsion systems for hypersonic flight vehicles, including liquid and hybrid rocket engines.

Responsibilities

• Build and maintain fluid systems, including propellants, high‑pressure, and cryogenic systems
• Work alongside engineers to build, test, and maintain systems
• Troubleshoot and perform maintenance on fluid and gas systems, low and high pressure
• Work with engineers to build and maintain rocket engines and other propulsion related items
• Hands‑on, applications‑oriented problem solver willing to work in the field
• Willingness to listen with intent to understand and process all inputs from other team members
• Sincere dedication to safety‑first, placing team health and well‑being as highest priority followed by the preservation of vehicles and facilities
• Ability to operate or learn to operate heavy machinery (forklift, all‑terrain forklift, overhead equipment, etc.)

Qualifications

• Safely work with high pressure gas systems
• Read and understand plumbing and instrumentation diagrams (P&IDs)
• Experience building and testing high pressure fluid/gas systems
• Tube fitting & bending, familiar with common industry fittings systems
• Mechanical skills: metal fabrication (benchwork layout, GD&T, general shop equipment familiarity & general shop skills), systems assembly (work from blueprints, manuals, or diagrams with minimal guidance)
• Rocket systems or test experience preferred, but not required
• Liquid oxygen and cryogenics handling and systems maintenance
• LOX systems handling and cleaning/clean room experience preferred

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalency certificate
• Airframe & Powerplant license preferred, but not required
• Level I ($31.65–$42.00): High school diploma or equivalency certificate and 0–5 years of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Level II ($38.50–$48.50): High school diploma or equivalency certificate and 5–10+ years of relevant experience or equivalent combination of education and experience

Location

This position is located in Mojave, CA.

Salary & Benefits

Base salary and leveling are established on a case‑by‑case basis, taking into account location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during the interview process.

Benefits include:

• Paid maternity and parental leave
• 50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500

Additional Information

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity. 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. For purposes of compliance with federal export control laws, U.S. citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance.