Senior Engineer - Propulsion Systems

Job description

Impulse Space is building the next generation of in-space transportation. As a Senior Engineer - Propulsion Systems , you will lead the development of high-performance spacecraft propulsion systems from clean-sheet concept through on-orbit operations. You will be the Responsible Propulsion Engineer for one of our in-space propulsion systems, which may include bipropellant thrusters, pressure vessels, fluid systems, mechanical hardware, electrical interfaces, and flight or ground software. This is a highly hands-on, cross-functional role for an engineer who can set technical direction, make sound system-level decisions, and deliver hardware in a fast-paced environment. Own propulsion system development across requirements, architecture, design, analysis, implementation, integration, test, and flight operations. Lead system-level trades involving fluids, thermodynamics, heat transfer, materials, mechanical design, and operations. Define system requirements, interfaces, verification strategies, and configuration baselines. Plan and execute development, acceptance, and qualification test campaigns. Define build and test scope, sequence of operations, readiness criteria, and technical milestones. Review test and flight data, investigate anomalies, and drive corrective actions to closure. Identify technical and programmatic risks and develop practical mitigation strategies. Provide on-orbit support, including propulsion performance assessment and anomaly resolution. Partner closely with manufacturing, integration, test, and mission operations teams to deliver reliable, integrated systems. Communicate technical decisions, status, and risks to internal and external stakeholders. Mentor engineers and raise the technical standard of the propulsion organization. Bachelor’s degree in engineering, physics, or a related technical discipline. 5+ years of professional experience in aerospace propulsion or a closely related field for the Senior level; Staff-level candidates will typically have broader technical leadership experience. Demonstrated experience developing bipropellant rocket propulsion systems . Strong foundation in fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, mechanics, and materials. Experience performing system-level engineering trades, including thermal-fluid analysis, materials selection, component selection, and operational analysis. Experience owning technical work from requirements definition through implementation and verification. Ability to lead effectively in small, highly collaborative, cross-functional teams. Strong written and verbal communication skills.