Propulsion Engineer - Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) SME Verified today

About the Role

Stratolaunch is seeking a Propulsion Engineer to lead the development and integration of Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) systems for hypersonic flight applications. You will serve as the SRM Responsible Engineer, working closely with the SRM supplier through design, development, testing, vehicle integration and flight operations.

Core Responsibilities

• Manage requirements and interfaces throughout design, development, testing, vehicle assembly, integration and test (AI&T), and flight operations of the SRM
• Provide oversight of SRM supplier activities and progress to ensure requirements are met
• Conduct weekly meetings and coordinate technical reviews with the SRM supplier
• Travel to supplier facilities for observation of and participation in key manufacturing processes and test operations
• Conduct post-test data analyses and interpretation of results in cooperation with the SRM supplier
• Develop system performance models in support of guidance, navigation and control (GN&C)
• Conduct ballistics and thermal analyses to verify and corroborate supplier efforts
• Specify requirements for and support the design of ground support equipment (GSE)
• Coordinate SRM deliveries, receiving and inspection
• Travel to test range to support SRM installation and flight test operations
• Provide regular and comprehensive communication to the hypersonic vehicle propulsion lead

Required Qualifications

• Experience with design, development, testing and operation of solid rocket motors
• Experience with supplier management, providing technical insight and oversight
• Knowledge of solid rocket motor manufacturing processes such as composite case winding and propellant mixing, pouring, and casting
• Ability to analyze, interpret, and communicate post-test data results
• Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences
• Ability to work on own initiative and adapt quickly to changing priorities

Required Skills

• MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook)
• Solid Performance Program (SPP) and/or Chemical Equilibrium with Applications (CEA)
• Scientific coding: Python, MATLAB, Simulink, C/C++

Desired Experience

• Experience with ballistics, thermal and/or combustion modelling
• Conducting rocket motor sizing and configuration trade studies
• Aerospace-grade hardware and mechanical design best practices, ASME Y14.5
• Explosives handling and classification
• Ground test hardware and work instruction development
• Component or subsystem level test planning and execution

Desired Skills

• Computer Aided Design tools: NX (preferred), CATIA, or Solidworks
• Specification and design of ground support equipment (GSE)

Education and Experience

Bachelor's degree from accredited institution required. Leveling based on experience:

• Senior-level: 5-10 years of engineering experience ($120,500-$158,000)
• Staff-level: 10-20 years of engineering experience ($157,000-$206,000)
• Principal-level: 20+ years of engineering experience ($181,000-$262,000)

Work Environment

• Position based in Mojave, CA
• Travel estimated at 15-30%
• May involve operation of company vehicles

Benefits

• Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
• Paid Maternity and Parental Leave
• 50% company match on 401(k) contributions, up to $11,500
• Tuition reimbursement