Sr. Propulsion Engineer (SRM RE)
Stratolaunch Systems
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 achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Sr Propulsion Engineer to help lead the development and integration of Solid Rocket Motor (SRM) systems for hypersonic flight applications. This position will serve as the SRM Responsible Engineer (RE), working closely with the SRM supplier through design, development, testing, vehicle integration and flight operations. Candidates must have an aerospace development background and relevant experience in aerospace systems integration.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
Manage requirements and interfaces throughout the design, development, testing, vehicle assembly, integration, and test (AI&T), and flight operations of the Solid Rocket Motor (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 as required to supplier facilities for on-site observation of, and participation in, key manufacturing processes and test operations
Conduct post-test data analyses & interpretation of results in cooperation with the SRM supplier
Develop system performance models in support of guidance, navigation & control (GN&C)
Conduct ballistics & 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 as required to test range to support SRM installation and flight test operations
Regular and comprehensive communication to the hypersonic vehicle propulsion lead
Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, and integrity in the fulfillment of commitments
QUALIFICATION & SKILLS
Required Qualifications
Experience with design, development, testing and operation of solid rocket motors.
Experience with ballistics, thermal and/or combustion modelling, highly desirable.
Experience with supplier management, providing technical insight/oversight for the larger team
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 to explain rationale and/or resolve concerns
Ability to work on their own initiative
Ability to quickly adapt 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++, etc.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience conducting rocket motor sizing and configuration trade studies in support of vehicle concept development
Experience with aerospace-grade hardware, mechanical design best practices, and ASME y14.5
Familiarity with explosives handling and classification
Experience with ground test hardware, including releasing engineering definition and developing work instructions
Experience with component-level or subsystem level test planning and execution
Preferred Skills
Computer Aided Design tools - NX (preferred), CATIA, or Solidworks
Specification and/or Design of ground support equipment (GSE)
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
- Sr Level ($104,000-$155,000): Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5-10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable
Travel estimated to be between 15-30%
Position is based in Mojave, CA
Benefits and our location:
Relocation eligible to local area – Mojave, CA
9/80 schedule
Healthcare (medical, dental, vision, prescription drugs)
Paid Maternity and Parental Leave up to 16 weeks
50% company match per contributed dollar into 401(k) savings plan up to the IRS annual limit
Tuition reimbursement for continued education
Mojave Air & Spaceport is located 95 miles north of Los Angeles. To outsiders it may seem like it is the middle-of-nowhere, but it offers both affordability and central access to a variety of California’s best attractions and landmarks. Hikers will find themselves within a 2-3 hours distance of some of the best state and national parks, including Yosemite and Sequoia in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Skiers will delight in being closely distanced to world-class resorts at Mammoth Mountain, Mountain High, and Big Bear. Beachgoers can find plenty of sand, sun, and sunsets at both Southern and Central California beaches like Ventura, Huntington, Santa Monica, and Pismo. The area also offers plenty of rural area for off-roading and horseback riding enthusiasts.
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.
Applicants must be a US citizen or Green Card holder to be considered for this role.
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.
Equal Employment Opportunity is the Law:
https://www.dol.gov/ofccp/regs/compliance/posters/pdf/eeopost.pdf
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Job Category: Engineering
