Senior Liquid Rocket Research Engineer

Sierra Lobo; California (MO); On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Senior Liquid Rocket Research Engineer to join their innovative team at Edwards AFB, California. This role involves providing expert technical advisory support for rocket propulsion development projects, engaging in cutting-edge research and development to enhance national space access capabilities. You will collaborate with various government agencies and industry partners, focusing on applied technology and demonstration efforts. If you are self-motivated with a deep understanding of thermodynamics and fluid mechanics, this opportunity offers a chance to make significant contributions to exciting aerospace projects.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in rocket propulsion or related fields.
• B.S. degree or higher in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering.

Responsibilities

• Support various rocket propulsion development projects.
• Oversee design, fabrication, and testing of test articles.
• Collaborate with government and industry partners.

Skills

Thermodynamics

Fluid Mechanics

Heat Transfer

Rocket Propulsion

Microsoft Office

Interpersonal Skills

Communication Skills

Education

B.S. in Aerospace Engineering

B.S. in Mechanical Engineering

B.S. in Systems Engineering

Job description

Senior Liquid Rocket Research Engineer

Location: US-CA-Edwards

Job ID: 2025-3160

Number of Positions: 1

Experience Required: 5 years

Position Type: Regular Full-Time

Level: Mid-Level (Non-Manager)

Visa Requirements: Citizen only

Overview

The Sierra Lobo Rocket Technology and Engineering Services II (RTES II) contract provides advise and assist services (A&AS) at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) at Edwards AFB, California. AFRL conducts rocket propulsion research, as well as developing associated test processes and facilities.

The Senior Liquid Rocket Research Engineer will provide expert technical advisory support for various rocket propulsion development projects. Join an established team of engineers and program managers in the Space Access Branch of the AFRL Rocket Propulsion Division (AFRL/RQR), performing research and development on engine and launch vehicle technologies to enhance the nation's Space Access capabilities.

Sierra Lobo offers full professional and technical capabilities, including Test and Evaluation, Systems Engineering, and Advanced Technologies. Our products and processes relate to Cryogenic Fluid and Thermal Management Systems, Densified Propellant Management Systems, and Extreme Pressure and Temperature Systems. Our clients include the DoD, U.S. Air Force, Navy, Army, MDA, and NASA.

This position is located at Edwards AFB, CA.

EOE/Minority/Female/Disabled/Veteran

Responsibilities

• Aiding internal research, external technology development efforts, evaluating contractor progress, facilitating flight-testing activities, and tracking external contracts.
• Overseeing and supporting government project managers on design, fabrication, testing, reviews, and program planning of test articles and campaigns.
• Designing and evaluating various propulsion concepts, developing test plans, visiting contractor facilities to ensure goals are met within budget and schedule.
• Focusing on applied technology and demonstration efforts, emphasizing technology transition.
• Engaging in activities across disciplines such as combustion devices, liquid rocket engine turbomachinery, launch vehicle systems, and system integration.
• Collaborating with the Air Force, Space Force, NASA, industry, and other government agencies.
• Some travel will be required.

Qualifications

Requisite Skills

• Self-motivated with a drive to increase expertise in new technical areas.
• Understanding of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat transfer.
• Systems thinking approach to problem-solving.
• Desirable familiarity with rocket propulsion and testing of complex systems.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Strong command of English language.
• Ability to operate effectively in a team, with excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Qualifications

• B.S. degree or higher in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Systems Engineering, with 5+ years of experience.
• US citizen.
• Ability to obtain a US DoD security clearance.