Spacecraft Propulsion 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.

The Vehicle Systems Division (VSD) sits at the center of the ideas and data behind current and future systems supplying innovative research and development; technical evaluations during the acquisition process; conceptual and detailed design; assembly, integration, and test; and operational support. Comprised primarily of highly trained mechanical and aerospace engineers, VSD provides national expertise in the areas of vehicle engineering; guidance, navigation, and controls;

robotics; electro‑mechanical devices; embedded systems; fluid mechanics; propulsion; thermal control; orbital mechanics; mechanisms; structures; structural dynamics; and dynamic environments.

The Propulsion Department within VSD develops and evaluates cutting‑edge propulsion technologies and systems for current and future government and commercial applications. The motto of the department is "We Deliver"; we work across the space enterprise and deliver timely, objective, and actionable technical advice so that programs can execute efficiently toward mission success.

As a Spacecraft Propulsion Engineer (
Senior MTS/Engineering Specialist - Propulsion Engineering
) in the Propulsion Department, you will perform technical evaluation and assessment of spacecraft propulsion systems for high‑priority space missions. Your work will potentially involve propulsion system development, sustainment, manufacturing, testing, and operations for multiple programs. You must be willing to learn a broad range of new technologies and systems and confidently advise customers in making critical decisions.

This is a full‑time position based in El Segundo, CA, offering a work model that combines at least four regular on‑site workdays with remote flexibility as business needs allow.

Supporting the development of advanced spacecraft propulsion systems for national space missions, using new technologies to allow more responsive operations:

• Participate in the overall design, development, test, and evaluation of propulsion systems, propellant tanking, and delivery subsystems
• Develop program requirements, assess risks and hazards; evaluate inspection, analysis, and test products to support verification or risk/hazard reduction
• Participate in support and/or lead technical interchange meetings, hardware reviews, flight data reviews, Preliminary Design Reviews, Critical Design Reviews; evaluate, and report upon analyses, studies, and tests of components and systems
• Perform technical evaluation of chemical propulsion systems used for spacecraft programs; resolve unique or novel problems, conditions, and issues
• Review contractor products to verify requirement compliance and general propulsion system efficiency and effectiveness
• Provide real‑time support during test, launch, and operations of spacecraft propulsion systems
• Function as propulsion system liaison for flight anomaly resolution and in‑flight investigation reviews
• Maintain awareness of multiple program propulsion activities by being an active participant in technical, safety, and integration working groups and meetings
• Prepare reports and presentations to communicate results and recommendations to Aerospace program offices, management, and customers
• Closely follow the Dynamic Space Operations (DSO) and Servicing, Mobility, and Logistics (SML) technical efforts as it relates to spacecraft propulsion and be able to contribute and report as the effort continues to mature

• Advanced degree in a STEM discipline
• 4 years or more of professional…