Propulsion Engineer II, Engine Systems & Test Verified today

Relativity Space · Long Beach, CA · Propulsion · first seen 2026-07-16

About the Team

The Propulsion team develops and delivers high-performance, manufacturable engines for Terran R. Engineers own the entire lifecycle of their parts, from design through production, qualification, and flight. The team practices bottoms-up decision-making with minimal gatekeeping, emphasizing ownership and accountability. With the flight configuration entering qualification, the team is now exploring engine modifications including thrust upgrades, new cycles, and design for mass production.

About the Role

You will drive engine system architecture and concept-of-operations trades, manage engine interfaces, and negotiate requirements to optimize the vehicle. You may also support engine system analysis and simulation, engine testing, tool development, and related work depending on team needs.

As a systems-level engineer, you will coordinate across technical teams and bring deep technical expertise to solve complex problems. You must lead collaborative projects to completion with minimal oversight, continuously improve your own skills, and learn about interfacing systems.

This role requires approximately 15% travel to test and launch sites and may occasionally require shifted schedules or weekend work for critical milestones.

What We're Looking For

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

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 and Benefits

Hiring range: $104,000-$156,000 USD. Compensation is determined based on experience, qualifications, and job-related factors. Relativity Space offers competitive salary and equity, generous PTO and sick leave, parental leave, and an annual learning and development stipend.