Solid Propellant Engineer

About Mach Industries

Founded in 2022,
Mach Industries is a rapidly growing defense technology company focused on developing next-generation autonomous defense platforms
. At the core of our mission is the commitment to delivering scalable, decentralized defense systems that enhance the strategic capabilities of the United States and its allies. With a workforce of approximately 220 employees
, we operate with startup agility and ambition.

Our vision is to redefine the future of warfare through cutting‑edge manufacturing, innovation at speed, and unwavering focus on national security. We are dedicated to solving the next generation of warfare with lethal systems that deter kinetic conflict and protect global security.

Mach Energetics is seeking a Solid Propellant Engineer to lead the design, formulation, and development of advanced solid propulsion systems for next‑generation defense platforms. This role focuses on propulsion architecture, propellant chemistry, grain design, and motor development from initial concept through validated hardware.

You will work closely with multidisciplinary teams to create high‑performance propulsion systems optimized for reliability, manufacturability, and operational effectiveness. The ideal candidate is deeply technical, highly hands‑on, and excited to move quickly from design iteration to hardware execution.

This role is best suited for engineers who enjoy solving first‑principles propulsion problems and want direct ownership over critical vehicle performance.

• Design and develop solid rocket motor systems including propellant formulations, grain geometries, igniters, insulation systems, and nozzle configurations
• Develop and optimize composite solid propellant formulations
• Perform propulsion analyses including internal ballistics, combustion behavior, thermal performance, and structural evaluations
• Collaborate with manufacturing teams to transition propulsion systems from prototype development to scalable production
• Support propellant mixing, casting, curing, and characterization activities during development programs
• Collaborate with flight sciences, structures, avionics, and systems engineering teams to integrate propulsion systems into operational vehicles
• Investigate propulsion anomalies and perform root‑cause analysis on motor or propellant performance issues
• Support static fire testing and propulsion validation efforts as part of the development process

• Bachelor’s degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Materials Science, or related field
• Experience with solid propulsion systems, energetic materials, or rocket motor development
• Strong understanding of combustion, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and propulsion fundamentals
• Familiarity with composite propellant systems, grain design, and rocket motor internal ballistics
• Experience performing engineering analysis using modeling or simulation tools
• Ability to work hands‑on in laboratory and propulsion development environments
• Strong technical communication and problem‑solving skills
• Ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. security clearance

• Master’s or Ph.D. focused on propulsion, energetic materials, combustion, or related discipline
• Experience designing or analyzing solid rocket motors for tactical missile, launch vehicle, or UAV applications
• Familiarity with propellant processing, cure kinetics, and energetic material characterization
• Experience with CFD, FEA, thermal analysis, or combustion simulation tools
• Experience supporting propulsion development test campaigns and data analysis
• Knowledge of energetic material safety standards and handling procedures
• Experience operating in rapid development or startup environments

This position may require access to information protected under U.S. export control laws and regulations, including the Export Administration Regulations (EAR) and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). Please note that any offer for employment may be conditioned on authorization to receive software or technology controlled under these U.S. export control laws and regulations…