Rocket Booster SME

Modern Technology Solutions, Inc. (MTSI); Huntsville (AL); On-site; USD 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A national defense technology company based in Huntsville, Alabama is looking for a highly skilled Rocket Booster Subject Matter Expert (SME). The role involves providing technical expertise in the design and integration of rocket motor systems, conducting performance analysis, and leading propulsion testing campaigns. Candidates should have strong knowledge of propulsion engineering principles, along with 19+ years of relevant experience and an active Secret Clearance. This position focuses on advancing next-generation homeland defense capabilities.

Qualifications

• 19+ years of experience in propulsion systems design, development, integration, and testing.
• Hands-on experience in the design and analysis of solid rocket motors and liquid propulsion systems.
• Active Secret Clearance with TS/SCI Eligibility.

Responsibilities

• Provide technical expertise review of rocket motor systems design.
• Conduct rigorous analysis of rocket motor performance metrics.
• Lead propulsion system testing campaigns and evaluate test plans.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with rocket motors.
• Prepare detailed technical documentation for various stakeholders.

Skills

Propulsion engineering principles

Solid rocket motor design

Liquid propulsion systems

Thermal dynamics analysis

Stress analysis

Education

Master's degree in Aerospace Engineering

Job description

We are seeking a highly skilled Rocket Booster SME to join the team in Huntsville, Alabama.

Contract Overview

Golden Dome is a national-level, whole-of-nation initiative in which you will play a critical role in advancing next‑generation homeland defense capabilities. If you are seeking a fast‑paced position focused on developing innovative solutions for the Space‑Based Interceptor mission, this opportunity is designed for you.

Key Responsibilities

Rocket Booster Design & Integration

• Provide technical expertise review of the design, development, and integration of solid and liquid rocket motor systems.
• Evaluate state‑of‑the‑art propulsion technologies to meet mission‑specific performance, efficiency, and safety requirements.
• Evaluate feasibility of booster system sizing, thrust optimization, and propellant selection for diverse mission profiles.

Technical Analysis

• Conduct rigorous analysis of rocket motor performance, including thrust‑to‑weight ratio, ISP (specific impulse), and engine durability under simulated operating conditions.
• Analyze and mitigate performance issues arising from environmental factors such as thermal stresses, vibration loads, and structural dynamics.

Test & Validation

• Lead and oversee propulsion system testing campaigns, including static fire testing and integrated stage evaluations.
• Observe and evaluate test plan execution and procedures covering environmental exposure (e.g., thermal vacuum, vibration, and acoustics), material compatibility, and ignition system performance.
• Evaluate new test data for alignment with anticipated propulsion models and resolve anomalies.

Risk Management

• Identify, assess, and mitigate risks associated with both solid and liquid rocket motors, including thermal stability, ignition system reliability, material degradation, and safety hazards.

Collaboration

• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams including guidance navigation & control (GNC) engineers, materials scientists, structural analysts, and software engineers to ensure seamless propulsion system integration.

Documentation & Reporting

• Prepare detailed technical documentation, including requirements specifications, design analyses, test reports, and technical presentations.
• Present findings and progress metrics to internal and external stakeholders, demonstrating alignment with program objectives.

Required Qualifications

Technical Expertise

• Strong knowledge of propulsion engineering principles, with hands‑on experience in the design and analysis of solid rocket motors and liquid propulsion systems.
• Familiarity with propellant chemistry, manufacturing techniques, and propulsion subsystems, including igniters, nozzles, and insulation.
• Expertise in analyzing stress, thermal, and fluid dynamics for rocket motor optimization.
• Experience with safety, handling, and storage protocols for solid rocket propellants and cryogenic liquids.

Education And Experience

• Master’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field with 19+ years of experience in propulsion systems design, development, integration, and testing.
• Demonstrated technical expertise in analyzing and optimizing both solid and liquid propulsion technologies.

Security Clearance

• Active Secret Clearance with TS/SCI Eligibility is required.