Staff Propulsion Engineer Verified today
CesiumAstro develops communication systems for satellites, UAVs, launch vehicles, and space platforms. We're seeking a Staff Propulsion Engineer to join our team in El Segundo, CA.
The Role
You will serve as a subject matter expert overseeing subsystem development from concept through flight, ensuring compliance with performance, safety, and reliability requirements. This position demands deep technical expertise and the ability to guide engineering teams in a fast-paced startup environment.
What You'll Do
- Lead design, analysis, and development of primary and secondary launch vehicle structures, stage interfaces, and payload accommodations
- Perform static and transient structural and thermal analysis of launch vehicle components to ensure mechanical integrity under operational loads
- Develop and execute test programs, analyze experimental data, and optimize designs based on findings
- Prepare CAD models for FEA analysis and manufacturing
- Generate technical documentation including reports, specifications, and contributions to PDRs and CDRs
- Collaborate across mechanical, aerospace, and controls engineering teams
- Mentor junior and senior engineers on technical understanding and professional development
- Participate in mission operations, anomaly investigations, and continuous improvement initiatives
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field
- 8+ years of industry experience in aerospace design and analysis
- Expertise in Ansys tools: Mechanical, Explicit Dynamics (LS-Dyna), Linear and Nonlinear Eigenvalue Buckling, Harmonic Response, and Random Vibrations
- Proficiency in MATLAB for programming, data analysis, and optimization
- Proficiency in CAD tools (SolidWorks, NX)
- Strong foundation in systems engineering principles, requirements flowdown, and integration
- Hands-on experience with hardware development, testing, and qualification
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with attention to detail
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
Preferred Experience
- Prior experience with cryogenic systems, liquid rocket systems, and launch vehicle components
- Hands-on experience designing and improving launch vehicle hardware
- Knowledge of manufacturing and technological processes for aerospace parts
- Familiarity with aerospace safety and reliability practices
- Experience in a startup or rapid development environment
Employment Details
Full-time position. Compensation includes company stock options and benefits package: health, dental, vision, HSA, FSA, life, disability, and retirement plans.
U.S. citizenship or eligible status required per Space Technology Export Regulations (8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3)).