Stage Propulsion / Vehicle Engineering Project Engineer

The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space.

At Aerospace, we are committed to providing an inclusive and diverse workplace for all employees to share in our common passion and aspiration – to carry out a mission much bigger than ourselves.

The Launch Systems, Operations, and Development team within the Launch Systems Division is seeking a well-qualified individual with demonstrated leadership and exceptional communication abilities. As a Stage Propulsion Project Engineer you will manage and provide leadership for a team of Engineering & Technology Group (ETG) engineers to evaluate, certify, and provide mission assurance for propulsion systems used on the SpaceX and other National Security Space Launch payload vehicles for the United States Space Force. You will be responsible for ensuring ETG consistently provides technically sound and objective assessments along with recommendations to Aerospace and Space Force leadership within appropriate timelines and budget allocations for the purposes of launch vehicle certification and operational mission assurance. You will also be responsible for providing direction, mentoring, and developing the technical and functional capabilities of the team while also building effective working relationships with the Space Force team, contractor counterparts (e.g. SpaceX and their suppliers), and other interested parties (e.g. NRO and NASA).   

This position will primarily start as a Stage Propulsion Program Office Engineer. Stage propulsion (Vehicle Engineering) works with Fluids, Mechanical Systems, and Structures. Cross training may become available allowing the position to also include Propulsion Systems (Engines) Program Office Engineering roles. 

Work Model  

This is an onsite position at the Los Angeles AFB. Hybrid telework may be available (2 days a week) based upon the needs of the customer.  

What You’ll Be Doing  

• Lead activities related to analysis, design, development, evaluation, testing, certification, pedigree, mission assurance, fleet monitoring, and launch mission control of large launch vehicle motors, engines, and stage propulsion systems 
• Manage Aerospace Engineering & Technology Group (ETG) technical studies that assure the integrity, reliability, performance, and compliance of large engines and propulsion systems 
• Collaborate with other program office staff responsible for other aspects of launch systems (such as structures, GNC, avionics, systems, etc) 
• Support management and systems engineering activities as needed 
• Prepare reports, briefings, updates, and documents as needed in support of program activities and Aerospace processes 
• Build and maintain close working relationship with the Space Force and Aerospace program offices, Contractors, and representatives from other government agencies 
• Provide technical advice/recommendations and inform Customer/Aerospace management of technical activities, issues and accomplishments through reports and briefings to senior level management 
• Assist the contractor in certifying and launching vehicles 
• Establish mutually beneficial solutions between the contractors and the USG team 

What You Need to be Successful – Project Engineer, Propulsion Engineering 

Minimum Requirements: 

• B.S. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering or related technical field  
• 8 years of related engineering experience 
• Past work in propulsion to include three or more of the following: engine/systems design, propulsion analysis/evaluation, engine testing, propulsion systems engineering, stage propulsion, engine manufacturing, engine certification, mission assurance, or mission support 
• Experience coordinating multi-disciplinary technical team efforts 
• A current DOD Secret Clearance or the ability to obtain/maintain a Secret Clearance, which is issued by the U.S. Government. U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance 
• Must be physically able to enter manufacturing facility, travel to test sites, and travel to launch site to support missions, and travel between campuses 

How You Can Stand Out  

It would be impressive if you have one or more of these: 

• M.S. and/or Ph.D. in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering with emphasis in combustion or propulsion from a recognized institution and/or MBA 
• Past work in propulsion in most of the following: stage propulsion, fluids, mechanical systems, structures, engine/systems design, propulsion analysis/evaluation, engine testing, propulsion systems engineering, engine manufacturing, engine certification, mission assurance, or mission support 
• Experience leading component level pedigrees, developing and delivering presentations to peers and all levels of management 
• Consulting or advising external groups 
• Knowledge the Launch Verification Matrix, Chief Engineer Review Board, and/or Risk management matrix 

We offer a competitive compensation package where you’ll be rewarded based on your performance and recognized for the value you bring to our business.  The grade-based pay range for this job is listed below.  Individual salaries within that range are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge and skills. 

(Min – Max)

$117,300 – $175,900

Pay Basis: Annual

Leadership Competencies

Our leadership philosophy is simple: every employee, regardless of level and role, can demonstrate leadership. At Aerospace, our commitment is our people. To cultivate our talent and ensure that we have a strong pipeline of future leaders, we want individuals who:

• Operate Strategically
• Lead Change   
• Engage with Impact   
• Foster Innovation   
• Deliver Results  

Ways We Reward Our Employees

During your interview process, our team will provide details of our industry-leading benefits.

Benefits vary and are applicable based on Job Type.  A few highlights include:

• Comprehensive health care and wellness plans

• Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation

• Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options

• 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire

• Flexible spending accounts

• Variable pay program for exceptional contributions

• Relocation assistance

• Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career

• Education assistance programs

• An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect

We are all unique, from diverse backgrounds and all walks of life, yet one thing bonds all of us to each other—the belief that we can make a difference. This core belief empowers us to do our best work at The Aerospace Corporation.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The Aerospace Corporation is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. We believe that a diverse workforce creates an environment in which unique ideas are developed and differing perspectives are valued, producing superior customer solutions. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, age, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity or expression, color, religion, genetic information, marital status, ancestry, national origin, protected veteran status, physical disability, medical condition, mental disability, or disability status and any other characteristic protected by state or federal law. If you’re an individual with a disability or a disabled veteran who needs assistance using our online job search and application tools or need reasonable accommodation to complete the job application process, please contact us by phone at 310.336.5432 or by email at ieo.mailbox@aero.org. You can also review Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal, as well as the Pay Transparency Policy Statement.