Propulsion Engineer Estes Energetics

Estes Energetics is a leader in energetic materials and solid rocket propulsion, supporting defense, aerospace, and commercial markets. Our team is dedicated to advancing cutting-edge technology while fostering a culture of innovation, safety, and collaboration. As we continue to grow, we are seeking skilled professionals who are eager to contribute to our mission of delivering high-quality, reliable solutions.

Summary

Estes Energetics is searching for a Propulsion Engineer or Associate Propulsion Engineer - based on experience - to join our solid rocket motor (SRM) design and manufacturing operations in Penrose, Colorado, about 35 minutes south of Colorado Springs. The Propulsion Engineer will primarily be responsible for developing new rocket motor designs and components, energetic materials, manufacturing tooling and processes, as well as getting hands on exposure to all associated equipment.

You will work under the guidance of senior engineers and collaborate with cross-functional teams to contribute to the success of our development and production energetics facility in Colorado. This is a great career opportunity for new graduates, those with experience in energetics manufacturing, rocket motor design or analysis, as well general aerospace or defense industry experience.

Essential Functions

• Develop solid rocket motors and energetic manufacturing capabilities, including the clean sheet design of rocket motor systems and components, support equipment, tooling, quality, and testing.
• Design and manufacture solid rocket propellants, components, and systems.
• Perform analysis of rocket motor ballistics, component and rocket motor designs, to include structural and thermal analysis.
• Perform rocket motor testing and support rocket motor qualification efforts.
• Implement existing technologies into rocket motor designs and manufacturing processes and evaluate new technologies for energetics and rocket motor design, performance improvements, manufacturing, and testing.
• Own the design, testing, analysis, and troubleshooting efforts across multiple technology areas including propulsion and propellant and energetics materials.
• Perform other aerospace, chemical, and defense research, development, and production projects as opportunities become available.

Competencies, Experience, and Education

Required

• BS or MS in mechanical, aerospace, chemical, electrical, or other relevant engineering fields.
• Hands on skills such as machining, hobby rocketry, automotive/mechanics, prototype fabrication, carpentry, pipe fitting, electronics, etc.
• Conceptual skills such as mechanical design, CAD, and analytical evaluation.
• Engineering skills such as mechanical design, Computer Aided Design(CAD), data analysis, first-order calculations for initial sizing and design or performance, and structural analysis using hand-calculations.
• Willingness to perform both conceptual and hands-on tasks.
• Ability to take initiative and work independently.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative team environment.
• Good verbal and written communication skills.
• Good time management skills with a proven ability to meet deadlines.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain State and Federal explosives licenses including:
• Be 21 years of age or older.
• Pass pre-employment drug test.
• Pass State and Federal background checks.
• A minimum of 2 years of experience in rocket propulsion development, chemical manufacturing, automation, engineering, or a similar field. Note that internship experience, undergraduate research, university design teams, or personal projects in these areas may be considered as counting towards this goal.
• Eligible to obtain and maintain State and Federal explosives licenses
• Experience in the aerospace and defense industries in a related field to aerospace systems, propulsion, or energetics material.
• Lab testing experience, including mechanical, chemical, or thermal property testing.
• Experience creating executable plans for individual work or small teams.
• Project engineering exposure and/or experience.

The work will primarily be in an office and manufacturing environment, including outdoors.

Physical Demands

• Ability to lift 50 pounds.
• Comfortable sitting, standing,…