Stage Propulsion / Vehicle Engineering Project Engineer

$117,300 - $175,900/Yr

The Aerospace Corporation - Los Angeles, CA

Full-time - Mid Level

Los Angeles, CA

Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

About the position

The Stage Propulsion Project Engineer at The Aerospace Corporation will lead a team of engineers in evaluating, certifying, and providing mission assurance for propulsion systems used on SpaceX and other National Security Space Launch payload vehicles. This role involves ensuring technical assessments and recommendations are delivered within timelines and budget, while also mentoring team members and fostering relationships with various stakeholders including the Space Force and contractors.

Responsibilities

• Lead activities related to analysis, design, development, evaluation, testing, certification, pedigree, mission assurance, fleet monitoring, and launch mission control of large launch vehicle motors, engines, and stage propulsion systems.
• Manage Aerospace Engineering & Technology Group (ETG) technical studies that assure the integrity, reliability, performance, and compliance of large engines and propulsion systems.
• Collaborate with other program office staff responsible for other aspects of launch systems (such as structures, GNC, avionics, systems, etc).
• Support management and systems engineering activities as needed.
• Prepare reports, briefings, updates, and documents as needed in support of program activities and Aerospace processes.
• Build and maintain close working relationships with the Space Force and Aerospace program offices, Contractors, and representatives from other government agencies.
• Provide technical advice/recommendations and inform Customer/Aerospace management of technical activities, issues, and accomplishments through reports and briefings to senior level management.
• Assist the contractor in certifying and launching vehicles.
• Establish mutually beneficial solutions between the contractors and the USG team.

Requirements

• B.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or related technical field.
• 8 years of related engineering experience.
• Past work in propulsion to include three or more of the following: engine/systems design, propulsion analysis/evaluation, engine testing, propulsion systems engineering, stage propulsion, engine manufacturing, engine certification, mission assurance, or mission support.
• Experience coordinating multi-disciplinary technical team efforts.
• A current DOD Secret Clearance or the ability to obtain/maintain a Secret Clearance, which is issued by the U.S. Government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
• Must be physically able to enter manufacturing facility, travel to test sites, and travel to launch site to support missions, and travel between campuses.

Nice-to-haves

• M.S. and/or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with emphasis in combustion or propulsion from a recognized institution and/or MBA.
• Past work in propulsion in most of the following: stage propulsion, fluids, mechanical systems, structures, engine/systems design, propulsion analysis/evaluation, engine testing, propulsion systems engineering, engine manufacturing, engine certification, mission assurance, or mission support.
• Experience leading component level pedigrees, developing and delivering presentations to peers and all levels of management.
• Consulting or advising external groups.
• Knowledge of the Launch Verification Matrix, Chief Engineer Review Board, and/or Risk management matrix.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
• 401(k) Plan with company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions
• Flexible spending accounts
• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
• Relocation assistance
• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
• Education assistance programs
• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect