Lead Propulsion Engineer (In-Space Systems)

About This Role

Lead the design, development, and delivery of an in-space propulsion system for next-generation spacecraft. This role involves technical leadership, program ownership, and mentoring a team of engineers.

Responsibilities

• Lead the architecture, design, development, and delivery of an in-space propulsion system
• Own propulsion requirements definition, flow-down, traceability, and verification
• Manage cost, schedule, and technical performance for the propulsion subsystem
• Lead and mentor a team of propulsion engineers through all phases of development
• Drive system-level trade studies, design decisions, and risk mitigation activities
• Oversee propulsion integration with spacecraft subsystems (structures, thermal, power, avionics, GNC)
• Support qualification, acceptance, and system-level test planning and execution
• Interface with program management, suppliers, and partners to ensure on-time delivery
• Contribute to spacecraft-level architecture, mission design, and technical reviews

Requirements

• 10+ years of experience with in-space propulsion systems
• Demonstrated experience leading engineering teams to product or flight delivery
• Strong background in system architecture and requirements management
• Experience owning cost and schedule for a complex technical subsystem
• Solid understanding of spacecraft systems and subsystem interfaces

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
• 10+ years of experience with in-space propulsion systems

Nice to Have

• Electric propulsion systems (Hall thrusters, ion propulsion, or similar)
• Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant engineering discipline
• Prior experience delivering propulsion systems for operational spacecraft
• Supplier management, make/buy decisions, and vendor technical oversight
• Experience in fast-paced, program-driven spaceflight environments