The Propulsion Engineer role is responsible for developing the fluid systems to enable high-performance and highly manufacturable interplanetary vehicles. This role will be responsible for designing, analyzing, and building a wide range of fluid systems across the Starship and Super Heavy vehicles. The role includes sizing vehicle fluid systems, engaging in detailed mechanical design, performing structural analysis, and driving the manufacturing and build flow of parts and systems. Systems will include high-pressure gas storage and control, cryogenic fluid management, attitude control systems, and thermal control systems. The Propulsion Engineer will also develop the concept of operations for their systems, from acceptance testing to in-flight operations.
RESPONSIBILITIES:
Perform fluids system sizing analysis to determine basic system requirements
Transform system requirements into hardware concepts and trade implementation and architecture options
Design a range of pressurized and unpressurized structures and parts to enable system capability, creating original CAD models and prints
Perform structural analysis of parts and components to ensure survivability
Execute design for manufacturability changes to enhance production efficiency
Drive the first builds of flight hardware and work with a manufacturing team to establish a production line
Coordinate and execute development, qualification, and acceptance testing of flight hardware
Participate in design reviews internally and with suppliers and customers
Partner with engineering and production teams to generate ideas, designs, and improvements for current and next-generation vehicles
BASIC QUALIFICATIONS:
Graduating with a bachelor's degree, master's degree or PhD in 2027
Degree in an engineering discipline or physics
1+ years of mechanical or fluids design, analysis, or build experience via project team, research, internships, and/or professional experience
PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE:
Experience with fluid dynamics, finite element, or related computer-based modeling
Experience with pressurized components (valves, regulators, tubes, pipes, etc.)
Experience leading operation-critical part mechanical design, including structures and fluids calculations and design considerations
Experience with finite element analysis (FEA) software packages
Experience with Siemens NX or other similar CAD package
Strong interpersonal and organizational skills
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
Ability to work extended hours and weekends as necessary
Ability and and willingness to relocate to Starbase, TX (Brownsville, TX area)
Stand: Up to 3 hours per day
Sit: Up to 6 hours per day
Push/Pull: Up to 50lbs. (unassisted) Up to 15 minutes per day
Overhead reach: Up to 3 hours per day
Walk: Up to 3 hours per day
Lift/Carry: Up to 25lbs. (unassisted) Up to 15 minutes per day
Climb (ladder/stairs): Up to 1 hour per day
Kneel/Crouch: N/A
Upper body twist: N/A
Ability to work in temperatures over 80 degrees: up to 30 minutes per day
Candidate must be capable of safely working at heights (up to 500ft), in confined spaces, using an air purifying respirator, and performing the physical requirements of the job listed in the job description
Candidate may be required to complete a pre-employment questionnaire and/or physical to confirm these capabilities, which may include a medical history review