Deputy Lead Propulsion Engineer

Stratolaunch is a technology accelerator that engineers operationally realistic testing at Mach 5+. Our air‑launched, Talon testbeds are reusable, cost‑effective platforms that enable routine access to the hypersonic environment. We deliver flight data critical to validating system performance and achieving rapid technology deployment. Together with our customers, we drive innovations that are imperative to advancing national security.

To help achieve these efforts, Stratolaunch is seeking a Sr‑, Staff‑, or Principal level Propulsion or Mechanical Engineer to support design, integration, testing, operations, and maintenance of the Talon‑A hypersonic aircraft rocket propulsion systems as a Deputy Lead. An ideal candidate will have both mechanical and fluid subsystem component design experience, as well as leadership experience. This Propulsion Deputy Lead position has growth potential to further technical leadership.

• Contribute to the development, build, test, and operations of propulsion flight and ground hardware
• Perform structural, fluid, and thermal analysis of mechanical components and/or assemblies
• Develop and document test requirements, plans, procedures, and reports
• Create component and assembly drawings for flight and ground test hardware
• Assist mechanics in integrating all components and assemblies onto the aircraft and/or ground systems
• Test propulsion components and/or assemblies to prepare for integrated subsystem testing
• Develop engineering tools, as needed, to complete tasking
• Maintain inventory tracking of critical propulsion components
• Manage supplier relations with key vendors
• Technical ownership of clean rooms
• Manage engineering release schedule in conjunction with shop planning
• Track vehicle propulsion configuration
• Review and release drawings, work instructions, analysis reports, etc.
• Regular and comprehensive communication to the Propulsion Lead
• Contribute to the integration of complex aerospace systems
• Demonstrate honesty, responsibility, integrity and fulfillment of commitments

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Required Qualifications:

• Knowledge of, and experience with, one or more of these disciplines: fluid subsystem design, mechanical design, component or assembly level mechanical or fluid testing, structural engineering, rocket testing, cryogenic fluid systems, electrical and/or instrumentation experience
• Ability to communicate technical challenges and guidance to varied audiences to explain rationale and/or resolve concerns
• Experience with fluid‑mechanical component design and stress analysis
• Experience with 3D CAD modeling of parts and assemblies
• Experience with propulsion ground testing
• Experience with component‑level or subsystem level test planning and execution
• Experience troubleshooting complex systems
• Ability to work on their own initiative
• Ability to quickly adapt to changing priorities
• Ability to obtain and maintain a security clearance

Preferred Qualifications:

• Technical leadership experience
• Personnel management experience
• Experience creating engineering drawings and work instructions
• Experience with liquid oxygen systems
• Liquid rocket engine testing experience
• Experience with component‑level or subsystem level test planning and execution
• Active TS/SCI security clearance

Required Computer

Skills:

• Computer Aided Design tools
• MS Office (Word, Excel, Powerpoint, Outlook)

Preferred Computer

Skills:

• Computer Aided Design tools – Solidworks
• Programming – Matlab or Python, Simulink/Simscape
• Familiarity with configuring data acquisition systems – Curtiss‑Wright DAS Studio (preferred)
• Familiarity with configuration management systems – Jira (preferred)

• Sr‑level ($120,500‑$158,000):
  Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 5‑10 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Staff‑level ($157,000‑$206,000):
  Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 10‑20 years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience
• Principal‑level ($181,000‑$237,000):
  Bachelor’s degree (B.S.) from accredited institution and 20+ years of engineering experience, OR equivalent combination of education and experience

Special remarks regarding work environment, if applicable

• Position based in Mojave, CA
• Travel, as needed, to support the department; travel estimated to be