Propulsion Engineer

Propulsion Engineer (Combustion Hardware)

$130,000 - $200,000 + Equity + Health Benefits + 401(k) + PTO + Start‑Up Environment (High Impact, Minimal Bureaucracy)

Austin, Texas

U.S. Citizenship required due to the nature of the work

Are you a Propulsion Engineer with combustion hardware experience looking for autonomy, technical ownership, and the opportunity to make a real impact at a fast‑moving liquid propulsion defense start‑up?

This is a pivotal role where you’ll become the in‑house combustion specialist at one of the defense industry’s most ambitious and technically advanced start‑ups. You’ll work on complex engineering challenges from day one, influence key technical decisions, and play a direct role in shaping next‑generation propulsion systems as the company rapidly scales.

Backed by strong funding and built around a highly capable team of engineers, the company operates with minimal bureaucracy, rapid decision‑making, and a genuine focus on execution and innovation. Engineers are trusted to move quickly, take ownership, and drive meaningful progress without layers of process or internal politics slowing things down. Their mission is to redefine the design and production of advanced missile systems.

You will design, develop, test, and own liquid rocket engines and combustion devices in a highly hands‑on environment. This is a true zero‑to‑one opportunity with significant technical responsibility, where your work will directly influence product development, company growth, and mission success from the earliest stages.

This role would suit a Propulsion Engineer seeking high levels of ownership, visibility, and technical influence within a well‑funded, early‑stage defense start‑up operating at the forefront of propulsion innovation.

• Design and develop liquid rocket engines, injectors, catalyst beds, and other combustion devices
• Lead component and system‑level testing from clean sheet design through hot‑fire
• Own engine hardware integration across structures, avionics, and GNC
• Design for performance, reliability, and scalable production

• Hands‑on experience with liquid propulsion and combustion
• Hands‑on experience developing and testing engine hardware
• Strong understanding of injector design, stability, and thermal management
• Comfortable owning propulsion systems end‑to‑end in an early‑stage environment

Reference Number: BBBH
274741