Senior Propulsion Engineer

Cahaba Federal Solutions LLC; Beavercreek (OH); On-site; USD 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

Cahaba Federal Solutions is seeking a Senior Propulsion Engineer to contribute across guidance, propulsion, control, software, modeling, and simulation of rocket-propelled aerospace vehicles in support of national security missions.

This role focuses on evaluating propulsion systems, responding to customer inquiries, and developing rigorous technical analyses related to liquid rocket engines and solid rocket motors, with opportunities for growth and teamwork.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering from ABET-accredited university.
• 5+ years of demonstrable experience in design, testing, or evaluation of propulsion systems or fluid mechanical systems.
• Formal education or training in propulsion disciplines: thermodynamics, stoichiometry, quasi 1D/2D compressible flow, nozzle design theory, structural mechanics, classical mechanics.
• Proficiency in scientific computing using one or more programming languages (C, C++, Fortran, Python, or MATLAB).
• Ability to conduct technical research, develop assessments, and communicate findings in written reports.
• Motivated self-starter who can work independently and as part of a collaborative technical team.
• Active SECRET clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Must be located in or willing to relocate to the Dayton, Ohio area.

Responsibilities

• Conduct engineering analysis and technical assessment activities for propulsion systems and related components.
• Address customer inquiries related to propulsion, including liquid and solid rocket motors.
• Develop formal technical reports and recommendations based on analyses and design resources.
• Perform propulsion-related assessments to support decision-making and mission objectives.

Skills

Programming languages

Scientific computing

Independent worker

Team collaboration

Education

ABET-accredited Bachelors in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering

Masters in Aerospace/Mechanical Engineering (preferred)

Tools

JANNAF databases

NASA CEA

Job description

Description

*** Active SECRET clearance required with SCI Eligibility ***

Cahaba Federal Solutions is a rapidly growing small business specializing in intelligence, prototyping and integration, systems engineering, and technology development. Recognized as one of Huntsville’s Best Places to Work® for the past 3 years, as a Best Place for Working Parents® for the past 3 years, and as the winner of the Huntsville/Madison County Emerging Business of the Year® for 2025, Cahaba is a trusted partner in advancing national security through innovative solutions to critical challenges. We are committed to supporting our nation's most vital missions with dedication and expertise. Joining the Cahaba team means access to meaningful career growth, opportunities for personal development, and the chance to tackle engaging and impactful work.

Job Summary

The Senior Propulsion Engineer will contribute to a broad range of work involving the guidance, navigation, propulsion, control, software, modeling, and simulation of rocket-propelled aerospace vehicles. This position focuses on evaluating propulsion systems, responding to customer technical inquiries, and developing rigorous technical analyses related to liquid rocket engines and solid rocket motors.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct engineering analysis and technical assessment activities involving the guidance, navigation, propulsion, control, software, modeling, and simulation of rocket-propelled aerospace vehicles.
• Address customer inquiries related to propulsion systems, including liquid rocket engines and solid rocket motors.
• Develop formal technical reports and recommendations based on professional experience, background research, propulsion databases, design analyses, and other technical resources.
• Perform propulsion-related assessments and studies to support customer decision-making and mission objectives.

Requirements

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university.
• 5+ years of demonstrable experience in the design, testing, or evaluation of propulsion systems or fluid mechanical systems.
• Formal education or training in the following propulsion-related disciplines: thermodynamics with an emphasis on thermal and chemical equilibrium, stoichiometry, quasi 1D/2D compressible flow, basic rocket nozzle design theory, structural mechanics, and classical mechanics.
• Demonstrated proficiency in scientific computing for mechanical or aerospace engineering analyses using one or more programming languages (e.g., C, C++, Fortran, Python, or MATLAB).
• Ability to conduct technical research, develop assessments, and communicate findings effectively through written reports.
• Motivated self-starter who can work independently and as part of a collaborative technical team.
• Active SECRET clearance with SCI eligibility.
• Must be located in or willing to relocate to the Dayton, Ohio area.

Preferred Qualifications

• Masters degree in Aerospace Engineering or Mechanical Engineering from an ABET-accredited university, with an emphasis on chemical rocket propulsion.
• Recent TS/SCI eligibility.
• 8+ years of professional experience in the design, testing, or evaluation of propulsion systems, with an emphasis on liquid rocket engines or solid rocket motors.
• Professional experience utilizing propulsion databases maintained by JANNAF.
• Proven capability using engineering software to analyze the performance of chemical propellants (e.g., NASA's Chemical Equilibrium with Applications (CEA)).
• Professional experience applying the following propulsion and fluid mechanics topics:
• Fluid measurement instrumentation (e.g., pressure transducers, flow meters, thermocouples)
• Combustion of liquid and solid propellants
• Performance analysis of chemical propellants
• For solid rocket motors: igniter design, propellant grain design, and structural analysis of propellant grains and rocket cases
• For liquid rocket engines: interpretation of propulsion system flow diagrams, injector design, feed systems, coolant systems, and identification and management of pressure losses
• Professional experience collaborating with other engineers to assess total vehicle performance with respect to each subsystem.

Cahaba’s full-time employees are rewarded with competitive salaries* and an outstanding comprehensive benefits package. These benefits include Blue Cross Blue Shield medical coverage, Guardian vision and dental insurance, company-funded life, short-term and long-term disability, tuition reimbursement, wellness benefits, generous paid time off, and robust retirement plan solutions.

Employment opportunities at Cahaba Federal Solutions are based upon a candidate’s qualifications and capabilities to perform the essential functions of a particular job and are free from discrimination based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability, protected veteran status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law. Cahaba is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer and provides reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans during the application process. If you need assistance accessing our online system or require an accommodation due to a disability, please contact us at [e-mail].

*Compensation for this position is determined by a variety of factors, to include a candidate’s relevant work experience, location, skills, and certifications.