Propulsion Development Engineer

Benchmark Space Systems - Pleasanton, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Pleasanton, CA

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About the position

Benchmark Space Systems is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Propulsion Development Engineer to join our Propulsion Development team. This role is responsible for full-cycle product ownership of new and existing spacecraft engines, including the design, building, and testing of systems and components. The position requires collaboration with Engineering, Production, and Test teams, and is based on-site in Pleasanton, California.

Responsibilities

• Demonstrate full-cycle ownership of a propulsion product, from requirements definition through design, building and testing of an engine system.
• Create mechanical designs for combustion components, subassemblies, and full engine assemblies (injectors, valves, ignitors, combustion chambers, nozzles).
• Perform first order analysis to ensure reliable thermal and fluidic operation (pressure budgets, structural analysis, heat transfer calculations, etc.).
• Write and execute test plans for development and flight qualification campaigns.
• Execute on prototype hardware, support fabrication and testing as needed, to enable rapid iteration.
• Support research and development efforts to continue to advance Benchmark's capabilities.
• Develop subject matter expertise in specific subfields of engine design.
• Work with other disciplines and departments to ensure proper support of the product through its lifecycle and support the needs of internal and external stakeholders.

Requirements

• Bachelor's or master's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related field.
• 3+ years of experience with rocket engine or combustion devices design.
• U.S. Person required.
• Knowledge of thermodynamic principles, compressible flow dynamics, and structural design.
• Experience with commercial 3D design software such as SolidWorks, NX, Creo, or others.
• Proficiency in GD&T and basic manufacturing principles.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Ability to work in an entrepreneurial, fast-paced, and matrixed cross-functional environment.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new technologies and processes.
• A passion for space technology and emerging ecosystems in space activities.

Nice-to-haves

• 5+ years of experience with rocket engine design.
• Hands-on experience with high-pressure, high-energy or hazardous fluid systems.
• Experience with spacecraft propulsion, including green or non-green storable propellants.
• Advanced thermal or fluid analysis experience (e.g. ANSYS, Thermal Desktop).
• Experience with fluid component ownership, including for example thrusters, valves, regulators, pumps or combustion devices.

Benefits

• Health insurance (100% coverage for individuals, 80% for families).
• Vision and dental insurance.
• Company paid life, AD&D and disability insurances.
• Employee assistance program.
• 401(k) with employer match.
• Flexible schedule.
• Unlimited vacation.