Sr Fluids Engineer, Ground Systems

Astra Space Inc; Alameda (CA); On-site; USD 130,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading aerospace company seeks an experienced engineer to join their Ground Systems team. The role focuses on designing mechanical and fluid systems crucial for rocket testing and launch operations. Candidates should possess expertise in CAD and fluid systems, with a bachelor's degree in a relevant field and over 5 years of experience. This position offers competitive pay and an opportunity to work on innovative projects in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in mechanical or process engineering.
• Experience with fluid systems, piping design, and system integration.
• Ability to work hands-on and solve problems in fast-paced environments.

Responsibilities

• Design mechanical and fluid systems using CAD.
• Create and maintain P&IDs and operational flow diagrams.
• Perform fluid and thermal analysis for sizing and validation.
• Support system build, integration, and field testing.

Skills

Mechanical engineering

Process engineering

Fluid systems

Piping design

CAD tools proficiency

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Process, Chemical, or Aerospace Engineering

Tools

CAD (NX preferred)

Job description

Astra’s mission is to improve life on Earth from space by creating a healthier and more connected planet. Today, Astra offers one of the lowest cost‑per‑launch dedicated orbital launch services, and one of the industry’s leading flight‑proven electric propulsion systems for satellites, the Astra Spacecraft Engine.

The Team

The Ground Systems Fluids Team designs and builds fluid systems for propellant handling, propulsion support, and payload conditioning. We work across the full design cycle - from P&IDs and component selection to integration and testing - handling a range of fluids including cryogenics, high‑pressure gases, and pyrophorics.

Our systems are modular and rapidly deployable, enabling global transport and fast assembly. By delivering flexible, reliable infrastructure, we help increase launch readiness and support Astra’s mission to enable more frequent and affordable space missions.

The Opportunity

Join Astra’s Ground Systems team to design and build the systems that support rocket testing and launch operations. You’ll focus on mechanical and fluid systems - from propellant loading and environmental control to fire suppression and pad safety. This role combines hands‑on hardware design with process definition to deliver reliable, mobile ground support equipment.

How You’ll Fulfill Your Mission

• Design mechanical and fluid systems using CAD (NX preferred)
• Create and maintain P&IDs and operational flow diagrams
• Define procedures for startup, shutdown, and emergency operations
• Perform fluid and thermal analysis for sizing and validation
• Support system build, integration, and field testing
• Collaborate with propulsion, avionics, and operations teams
• Improve system performance and maintainability over time

Why We Value You

• 5+ years in mechanical or process engineering
• Experience with fluid systems, piping design, and system integration
• Proficiency with CAD tools and basic analysis methods
• Ability to work hands‑on and solve problems in fast‑paced environments
• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical, Process, Chemical, or Aerospace Engineering

Desired Multipliers

• Cryogenic or high‑pressure system design
• Familiarity with ASME B31.3, AWS D10.18, or similar codes
• Experience operating or supporting field‑deployed systems
• Knowledge of aerospace or launch safety standards
• Experience in aerospace or space startup environments preferred

The pay range for this role is: $130,000 – $160,000 per year

The stated compensation range reflects only the targeted base salary range in the San Francisco Bay Area and excludes additional earnings such as bonus and benefits. If your salary requirements fall outside of the range, we still encourage you to apply.

You do not need to match every listed expectation to apply for this position. Here at Astra, we know that diverse perspectives foster the innovation we need to be successful, and we are committed to building a team that encompasses a variety of backgrounds, experiences, and skills.

San Francisco Applicants: Astra will consider applicants with arrest and conviction records (criminal histories) in a manner consistent with the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.

ITAR Requirements

This position requires compliance with U.S. Government space technology trade restrictions, specifically the International Trafficking in Arms Regulations (ITAR), Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and additional regulations governing satellite, launch vehicle, missile, and other related technologies. All jobs restricted by these regulations will be contingent upon the applicant’s status as a documented U.S. Person or their ability to receive a trade license from the cognizant government agency; in addition to any required company background checks and in compliance with applicable U.S. and California laws. Similarly, positions requiring the ability to work on government contracts or a security clearance are also contingent upon the applicant’s ability to receive the appropriate clearance and be allowed to work on U.S. government contracts.