Principal Propulsion Engineer, Engine Systems & Test Verified today

About the Team

The Propulsion team develops and delivers high-performance, manufacturable engines for Terran R. Engineers own the full lifecycle of their parts from design through production, qualification and flight. The team operates with bottoms-up decision-making, free from technical gatekeeping, where ownership and accountability drive all levels.

The flight configuration is entering qualification while the team explores modifications for future engines, including thrust upgrades, new cycles and design for mass production.

About the Role

You will drive engine system trades (architecture and CONOPS), manage engine interfaces and negotiate requirements to optimise for the vehicle. You may also support engine system analysis and simulation, engine testing and tool development depending on your skillset and team needs.

At the principal level, you will have significant impact on the current engine's development and the architecture of future iterations. You will mentor the team and learn from mentors across propulsion and the company. You bring deep technical acumen to system-level problems, not just coordination but hands-on problem-solving.

You will lead collaborative projects to completion with minimal oversight, seeking continuous improvement and learning about interfacing systems. This role requires an average of 15% travel to test and launch sites and may occasionally require shifted schedules or weekend work for critical milestones.

What We're Looking For

• 11+ years of relevant experience, preferably in complex engineering system development and/or test environment
• Bachelor's degree in science, engineering, technology or mathematics
• Working knowledge of liquid-propellant rocket engines
• Experience applying engineering fundamentals in fluid mechanics and thermodynamics
• Clear evidence of ownership, problem-solving and effective team collaboration
• Demonstrated drive to deliver on ambitious schedules, even with unconventional and creative solutions

Nice to Have

• Working knowledge of fluid components such as valves and instrumentation
• Working knowledge of engine subsystems such as combustion devices and turbomachinery

Compensation

Hiring range: $185,000 to $277,000 USD. Relativity Space offers competitive salary and equity, generous PTO and sick leave, parental leave, annual learning and development stipend and more.