Senior Propulsion Engineer – Solid Rocket Systems

Karman Space & Defense; Mukilteo (WA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 155,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401k with match

Paid time off

Health savings account

Flexible spending accounts

Life insurance

Short-term disability

Long-term disability

Job summary

Karman Space & Defense, a leader in rapid design and production of space and defense systems, seeks an experienced propulsion engineer in Mukilteo, WA. You will lead solid rocket motor propulsion development, drive system-level ballistic modeling, and collaborate across engineering teams to deliver mission-ready propulsion solutions.

The role requires strong internal ballistic modeling skills, a DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain one, and 4–10 years of aerospace/defense experience.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, physics, or related field or equivalent experience.
• 4–10 years aerospace/defense engineering experience.
• Strong understanding of propulsion systems and internal ballistics modeling.
• Proven experience developing propulsion internal ballistic models, preferably for solid rocket motors.
• Knowledge of military and commercial design specifications.
• A DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain one.

Responsibilities

• Lead solid rocket propulsion design across grain geometry, case design, insulation, inhibitors, igniters, and nozzles.
• Conceptualize, design, and develop propulsion devices and systems per requirements.
• Perform full ballistic modeling: propellant sizing, nozzle sizing, insulation, inhibitors, performance analysis.
• Support thermal, ablation, and erosion analyses when applicable.
• Create 2D layouts and 3D models to define propulsion concepts.
• Verify calculations and models; mentor junior engineers.
• Document performance requirements, test plans, and compliance evidence.
• Review propulsion designs for cost, manufacturability, and quality.
• Create engineering drawings, BOMs, and manufacturing specs.
• Support manufacturing, QA, testing, and deployment throughout lifecycle.
• Provide technical support to internal teams and customers.
• Assist bench and field testing, including static fire setup and instrumentation.
• Evaluate test data: acoustic stability, impulse, pressure, and thrust.
• Mentor and guide propulsion system development.

Skills

Solid rocket propulsion

Internal ballistic modeling

Propulsion systems

Team mentorship

Education

Bachelor's degree in mechanical/aerospace/physics

Master's degree (preferred)

Tools

CAD/CAE tools

ASME Y14.5 / GD&T

Job description

Karman Space & Defense, a leader in rapid design and production of space and defense systems, seeks an experienced propulsion engineer in Mukilteo, WA. You will lead solid rocket motor propulsion development, drive system-level ballistic modeling, and collaborate across engineering teams to deliver mission-ready propulsion solutions.

The role requires strong internal ballistic modeling skills, a DoD Secret clearance or ability to obtain one, and 4–10 years of aerospace/defense experience.