Engine Lead

About the Role

As the Engine Lead you will own the execution of this entire engine program lifecycle: from architecture and design through production, test, flight, and refurbishment. You will serve as chief engineer, program manager, technical lead, and lead systems engineer. You will lead a multi‑disciplinary team of propulsion, structural, mechanical, avionics, software, and test engineers to deliver a flight‑proven, reusable engine. You will work closely with vehicle integration, manufacturing, test, and launch operations teams as the engine integrates with the rest of the launch system and its lifecycle.

You must be ready to stay focused, move fast, self‑direct, and learn on the fly. This role reports to the Head of Launch & Propulsion.

Own the engine program from development through flight

Develop engine operation procedures and operational limits in coordination with vehicle, test stand, and launch operations teams

Define and manage schedule and budget for the engine program

Define the verification and qualification plan for engine requirements and manage its execution

Participate in test and launch operations to make real‑time engineering decisions on technical risks

Own the engine's upgrade plan for improved reliability, rapid reusability, and faster production rate; derive upgrade scope and timelines to achieve these goals

Drive design‑for‑reuse decisions: inspection intervals, life‑limited parts, refurbishment procedures, and acceptance criteria for reflown hardware

• 5+ years of experience in design, build, or test of rocket engines, combustion devices, turbopumps, or valves
• Demonstrated experience on one or more development engine programs through a significant portion of the lifecycle (concept through development, qualification, or sustained operations)
• Demonstrated ability to integrate a team of technical contributors spanning propulsion, mechanical, electrical, avionics and software disciplines
• Strong knowledge of systems engineering fundamentals applied practically in a fast‑paced development program
• Exceptional command of fundamentals: compressible flow, thermodynamics, combustion, control systems, cryogenics, and instrumentation
• Proficiency with fluid analysis tools (Python, NPSS, AMESim, Thermal Desktop, EES, REFPROP, or equivalent)
• Strong data analysis and data reduction skills (test data to engine health/performance)
• Proficiency with aerospace fasteners, seals, tubing, fittings, and COTS hardware
• Hands‑on experience with fabrication and assembly of engine hardware
• Demonstrated history of excellent communication and team‑building
• Bachelor's degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering, or equivalent

• Experience with gas‑generator cycle engines or LNG/methane propulsion systems
• Experience with engine reuse: inspection, refurbishment, and recertification processes
• Experience with CAD tools and configuration management (Siemens NX/Teamcenter or equivalent)
• Proficiency in GD&T, tolerance stackups, and material selection
• Experience with various welding approaches (GTAW, laser, EB)
• Familiarity with engine start/shutdown transient modeling and engine control system design

The salary range for this position is $250,000 - $285,000 annually. The actual base salary offered will depend on factors such as job‑related skills, experience, qualifications, and internal equity.

Equity in Cowboy Space Corp.

• Employees and their eligible dependents may enroll in medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement savings plan
• Paid time off
• 10 paid holidays per calendar year
• Paid parental leave
• Relocation assistance if applicable
• Daily lunch in the office and a fully stocked kitchen with beverages and snacks

Export Control Requirement:
To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324B(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Learn more about ITAR here.

This job…