Deputy Lead Propulsion Engineer

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air-launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost-effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Sr-, Staff-, or Principal level Propulsion or Mechanical Engineer to support design, integration, testing, operations, and maintenance of the Talon-A hypersonic aircraft rocket propulsion systems as a Deputy Lead. An ideal candidate will have both mechanical and fluid subsystem component design experience, as well as leadership experience. This Propulsion Deputy Lead position has growth potential to further technical leadership.

ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Contribute to the development, build, test, and operations of propulsion flight and ground hardware

Perform structural, fluid, and thermal analysis of mechanical components and/or assemblies

Develop and document test requirements, plans, procedures, and reports

Create component and assembly drawings for flight and ground test hardware

Assist mechanics in integrating all components and assemblies onto the aircraft and/or ground systems

Test propulsion components and/or assemblies to prepare for integrated subsystem testing

Develop engineering tools, as needed, to complete tasking

Maintain inventory tracking of critical propulsion components

Manage supplier relations with key vendors

Technical ownership of clean rooms

Manage engineering release schedule in conjunction with shop planning

Track vehicle propulsion configuration

Review and release drawings, work instructions, analysis reports, etc.

Regular and comprehensive communication to the Propulsion Lead

Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems

Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments

QUALIFICATIONS & SKILLS

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications:

Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: fluid subsystem design, mechanical design, component or assembly level mechanical or fluid testing, structural engineering, rocket testing, cryogenic fluid systems, electrical and/or instrumentation experience

Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to explain rationale and/or resolve concerns

Experience with fluid-mechanical component design and stress analysis

Experience with 3D CAD modeling of parts and assemblies

Experience with propulsion ground testing

Experience with component-level or subsystem level test planning and execution

Experience troubleshooting complex systems

Ability to work on their own initiative

Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities

Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

Technical leadership experience

Personnel management experience

Experience creating engineering drawings and work instructions

Experience with liquid oxygen systems

Liquid rocket engine testing experience

Experience with component-level or subsystem level test planning and execution

Active TS/SCI security clearance

Required Computer Skills:

Computer Aided Design tools

MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook)

Preferred Computer Skills:

Computer Aided Design tools – Solidworks

Programming – Matlab or Python, Simulink/Simscape

Familiarity with configuring data acquisition systems – Curtiss-Wright DAS Studio (preferred)

Familiarity with configuration management systems – Jira (preferred)

EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE

Sr-level ($120,500-$158,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Staff-level ($157,000-$206,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10-20 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Principal-level ($181,000-$237,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 20+ years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

Position based in Mojave, CA

Travel, as needed, to support the department; travel estimated to be <5%

#LI-onsite #LI-AM1 Base salary and leveling are established on a case-by-case basis. We consider several factors to ensure a competitive offer, including your location, educational background, and a comprehensive assessment of the skills and experience demonstrated during your interviews.

Benefits and our location(s) :

9/80 schedule

Healthcare ( medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs )

Paid Maternity and Parental Leave

50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan, up to $11,500

Tuition reimbursement

This position may involve the operation of company vehicles as part of assigned duties.

Mojave Air & Spaceport is located just outside of Lancaster/Palmdale and is only 95 miles north of Los Angeles. The area offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California's best attractions and landmarks.

Not much for the outdoors and prefer the city life? You’re within a half day’s drive or less of Los Angeles, San Diego, Las Vegas, and San Francisco where you can find a variety of live entertainment, museums, tours, and historical sight-seeing. Theme parks are in abundance, with Six Flags Magic Mountain, Disneyland, and Knotts Berry Farm ready to meet the needs of rollercoaster thrill seekers.

Food and drink fanatics are in a haven of delectable choices. Wine aficionados will also find easy access to some of the state’s best vino in Paso Robles, Santa Ynez, and even more locally in Tehachapi and Agua Dulce. Beer fanatics will find some of the best West Coast IPAs at Bravery and Lucky Luke’s in Lancaster. Any food option you crave is covered, and we always recommend the authentic and fresh Mexican food that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States.

Stratolaunch is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity at our company. We encourage people from all walks of life to apply, without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by law. Our management team does not tolerate discrimination or harassment at any point during our employees’ and applicants’ time with us, especially with respect to recruitment, hiring, placement, promotion, transfer, training, compensation, benefits, employee activities, and general treatment during employment. For purposes of transparency, U.S. Citizenship may be required for some positions with a government clearance and certain other restricted positions.

Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law :

https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf