Staff Propulsion Engineer

Agile Space; Durango (CO); On-site; USD 144,000 - 200,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous health coverage

Flexible Time Off

401(k) with 100% company match up to 4%

Job summary

Agile Space Industries in Durango, Colorado is seeking a Staff Propulsion Design Engineer to lead the design and optimization of propulsion hardware and systems. Candidates should possess an M.S. in a relevant field and have at least 12 years of experience in propulsion development, specifically in liquid propulsion systems. Responsibilities include conducting simulations, collaborating with cross-functional teams, and providing technical mentorship. The expected salary range is $144,000 to $200,000 annually, with exceptional benefits including a 401(k) match.

Qualifications

• 12+ years of experience working on the development of propulsion systems.
• Experience with propulsion testing and data analysis, specifically liquid propulsion.
• Proven track record of delivering hypergolic propulsion systems from concept to production.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of hypergolic propulsion systems and components.
• Conduct modeling and simulation to optimize performance, efficiency, and reliability.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with structures, thermal, manufacturing, and test teams.

Skills

Fluid dynamics

Thermodynamics

Heat transfer

Rocket propulsion

Cross-functional leadership

Education

M.S. or higher degree in related engineering or technical field

Tools

SolidWorks CAD

TDK or similar performance modeling tools

Job description

Agile Space Industries is a rapidly growing supplier of propulsion hardware and engineering services for the space industry. Headquartered in Durango, Colorado, with expanding operations in Mount Pleasant, Pennsylvania, and Tulsa, Oklahoma, Agile has achieved more than 40% year-over-year growth for the past three years, and our momentum continues to accelerate.

At Agile, we design, build, and test in-space propulsion systems that give spacecraft the ability to maneuver with precision, reliability, and purpose. Our technologies play a critical role in missions that range from lunar landings and resource utilization to national defense, human exploration, and commercial space transport.

We are seeking bold and driven individuals who thrive in a hands-on, fast-moving environment and want to help write the next chapter of space history as part of a close-knit, innovative team.

Agile is seeking an experienced Staff Propulsion Design Engineer who will lead the design, development, and optimization of propulsion components and systems. This role requires deep technical expertise, cross-functional leadership, and the ability to drive Agile’s propulsion devices from concept through production. The ideal candidate for this role will also be able to interpret hot-fire test data and drive design modification as well as provide technical guidance to junior engineers on sound design practices. Agile follows a fast-paced culture and the ideal candidate will have the opportunity for growth and increased sphere of influence as a technical leader. Critical skillsets being sought after are expertise in heat transfer, fluid dynamics, rocket propulsion, spacecraft system architecture.

Responsibilities

• Lead the design and development of hypergolic propulsion systems and components, including combustion devices, liquid rocket engines, propellant systems, and supporting components.
• Establish architecture and design injectors for engines based on operational requirements including pulse mode, steady state or throttle operations and performance needs.
• Design and layout of storable propellant rocket engine combustion devices.
• Define and conduct trade studies to design combustion chambers for engines by balancing thermal restrictions and performance requirements by implementing the right cooling methods.
• Work with supplier(s) to identify the appropriate valves for propellant control based on hypergol compatibility and performance requirements like response times, cycle frequency, etc.
• Perform system-level trade studies, modeling, and simulation to optimize performance, efficiency, and reliability. Performance modeling can include use of TDK or similar industry standard tools.
• Own hypergolic propulsion hardware from concept, detailed design, analysis, prototyping, testing, and production support.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with structures, thermal, manufacturing, and test teams.
• Develop and review engineering documentation, including requirements, specifications, and design reviews.
• Lead root cause analysis and implement corrective actions for design and test issues.
• Support test campaigns, including planning, execution, data analysis, and reporting.
• Prepare formal presentations and reports for customer communication and gated product development reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR, etc.)
• Ensure compliance with industry standards, safety regulations, and quality requirements.
• Provide technical mentorship and guidance to junior engineers.
• Contribute to long-term technology roadmaps and innovation initiatives.
• Utilize SolidWorks CAD for design of components and/or assemblies.

Requirements

• M.S. or higher degree in related engineering or technical field. Equivalent professional experience will be considered in lieu of a degree.
• 12+ Years of experience working on development of propulsion systems. Strong background in fluid dynamics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, and combustion.
• Deep understanding of fuel film cooling and regenerative cooling in bipropellant engines as well as design experience to ensure thermal stability in engines.
• Experience working with performance modeling tools like TDK or similar JANNAF compliant tools commonly used in the storable propulsion industry.
• Working knowledge of and experience with selection of valves for different chemical propulsion applications.
• Multi-disciplined engineer confident working through ambiguity and uncertainty across complex assignments.
• Proven track record of delivering hypergolic propulsion systems from concept to production
• Experience with propulsion testing and data analysis, specifically liquid propulsion.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with chemical rocket propulsion systems.
• Familiarity with CFD, FEA, and propulsion system modeling tools (e.g., ANSYS, MATLAB/Simulink) to understand analysis results.
• Knowledge of manufacturing processes such as additive manufacturing, machining, and casting
• Experience working in regulated industries (e.g., aerospace, defense).
• Knowledge of combustion instabilities.
• Prior technical leadership, project ownership and/or people management experience.

This position is open across multiple levels (Staff, Senior Staff, & Principal). Final leveling will be determined based on the candidate’s experience, skills, and overall qualifications during the interview process.

Physical Requirements

Prolonged periods of sitting at a desk and working on a computer

Employment Type

Exempt

Work Schedule

Full-Time

Salary

The expected salary range for this role is $144,000 – $200,000 annually. Final compensation will be based on factors such as experience, skills, and internal equity, and is typically made within the midrange, rather than the upper end. The posted salary band reflects the compensation range for candidates located in Colorado, in compliance with Colorado state law. If you are located in another state, please contact HR to inquire about the applicable compensation band, as requirements may vary by jurisdiction.

Posting Timeline

This position will remain open for a minimum of five (5) days and will continue to accept applications until the role is filled. Early applications are encouraged, as reviews and interviews may begin during the posting period.

Onsite #LI-Onsite

#LI-Onsite

What You’ll Love About Us

Agile Space Industries offers exceptional benefits to support you and your family including generous health coverage, dental and vision plans, Flexible Time Off, parental leave, and a 401(k) with 100% company match up to 4%. We are committed to creating a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, region, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, or any other basis protected by law.

Reasonable Accommodation

At Agile, our goal is to create an accessible and inclusive experience for all candidates applying and interviewing at the Laboratory. If you need a reasonable accommodation during the application or the recruiting process, please submit a request to [e-mail].

Recruitment Notice

Agile Space Industries is not partnering with external recruiters or agencies at this time. Please do not contact our staff directly regarding open positions. All candidates must apply through our official application process to be considered.