Senior Ballistician & Igniter Design Engineer, SRM Propulsion

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc.; Bloomington (IN); On-site; USD 95,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is seeking an experienced Ballistician/Igniter Design Engineer to lead interior ballistics modeling, grain geometry optimization, and ignition-system architecture for solid rocket motors. You will collaborate with chemists and manufacturing teams and own the ballistic lifecycle from concept to qualification.

The role requires 4–10 years in propulsion, CAD/CAE proficiency, and a track record of igniter development, testing, and program support. A U.S.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace, Mechanical, Chemical Engineering or closely related field.
• 4–6+ years in interior ballistics, grain design, or igniter systems.
• Experience with 2D/3D grain geometries and ignition hardware design.

Responsibilities

• Lead interior ballistics analysis and performance prediction for SRM programs.
• Design and optimize 3D propellant grain geometries to meet constraints.
• Model ignition transients and ignition system behavior to ensure reliable startup.
• Oversee igniter hardware design, interfaces, and electrical harness integration.
• Maintain compliance with ITAR/ EAR and safety standards.

Skills

Interior ballistics

Grain geometry design

Ignition system design

Propellant tailoring

Programming (Python, MATLAB, Fortran,

Education

Bachelor’s in Aerospace/Mechanical/Chemical Eng

BA/BS in related field

Tools

SolidWorks

NX

Creo

NASA CEA

Job description

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. is seeking an experienced Ballistician/Igniter Design Engineer to lead interior ballistics modeling, grain geometry optimization, and ignition-system architecture for solid rocket motors. You will collaborate with chemists and manufacturing teams and own the ballistic lifecycle from concept to qualification.

The role requires 4–10 years in propulsion, CAD/CAE proficiency, and a track record of igniter development, testing, and program support. A U.S.