Propulsion Engineer II

Karman Space & Defense is a leader in the rapid design, development, and production of critical, next-generation system solutions that align with the U.S. Department of War and its allies' core mission priorities, and meet the accelerating demand for access to space. Building on nearly 50 years of success, we deliver Payload & Protection Systems, Aero/Hydrodynamic Interstage Systems, and Propulsion & Launch Systems to more than 80 prime contractors supporting over 130 space and defense programs.

This role is part of our Tactical Missiles and Integrated Defense Systems business, which designs and develops integrated missile and defense systems that support critical missions across air, land, and sea. We combine comprehensive analysis, engineering, and program execution capabilities to deliver mission-tailored solutions that reduce lead times, lower costs, and simplify complex multi-vendor supply chains. Backed by decades of flight-proven and fielded performance, we design and build mission-critical technologies including launch systems, propulsion, payload integration solutions, UAV components, missile subsystems, and Safe & Arm systems.

In this role, you will design and develop propulsion devices and systems that directly support aerospace and defense programs. You will drive system-level ballistic modeling, develop conceptual and detailed designs, support structural analysis, and collaborate with cross-functional teams from concept through final delivery. Your work ensures propulsion systems meet stringent performance, reliability, manufacturing, and customer requirements.

Responsibilities

• Supports propulsion system design activities across the mechanical engineering group.
• Conceptualizes, designs, and develops propulsion devices and systems based on customer and program requirements.
• Performs full system ballistic modeling, including propellant sizing, nozzle sizing, insulation and inhibitor specifications, and overall performance analysis.
• Supports detailed structural and stress analysis in collaboration with mechanical engineering.
• Creates 2‑D layouts and 3‑D solid models to define propulsion concepts and designs.
• Performs mechanical engineering calculations and analyses to validate safe system operation.
• Assists in system-level design efforts, owning propulsion systems and components.
• Documents performance requirements, test procedures, plans, test reports, and compliance evidence.
• Reviews designs for cost, manufacturability, and quality assurance considerations.
• Creates engineering drawings, bills of materials, manufacturing requirements, and inspection specifications.
• Supports manufacturing, assembly, testing, and deployment throughout the propulsion system lifecycle.
• Provides technical support to internal teams, external partners, and business development activities.
• Supports bench and field testing of propulsion components and systems.
• Mentors junior engineers and provides technical guidance in propulsion design and analysis.

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field; or equivalent relevant experience and registration.
• Typically 2-5 years of aerospace or defense engineering experience.
• Solid understanding of propulsion systems and ballistics modeling.
• Proven experience designing robust mechanical hardware.
• Knowledge of military and commercial design specifications.
• Proficiency with SolidWorks and experience with Geometric Dimensioning and Tolerancing (GD\&T).
• Knowledge of computer‑aided design (CAD) and computer‑aided engineering (CAE) tools for mechanical systems.
• A current U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) Secret security clearance or the ability to obtain and maintain one.

Preferred Qualifications

• Master's degree in mechanical engineering, aerospace engineering, or a related field.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) with company match
• Paid time off
• Health Savings Account (HSA) with company contribution
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
• Company‑paid life and AD\&D insurance
• Short‑ and long‑term disability coverage
• Tuition reimbursement

Karman Space and Defense is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.