Propulsion Initiation & Energetic Devices Lead Engineer

Location: Metro Detroit, MI (Onsite) | Comp: $120,000–$150,000 base + annual bonus + signing bonus | Relocation: Available

What if your next design fired the start to a successful mission? Join a well-established, privately held aerospace propulsion company and lead the design and qualification of pyrotechnic systems—gas generators, initiators, and igniters—that enable flight-critical performance.

Your mission

You’ll be the conductor of the product life cycle—aligning requirements, engineering the solution, validating the design, and documenting every milestone.

• Translate customer and internal needs into clear specifications and verification approaches from concept to qualification.
• Design and analyze energetic components and propellants; partner with manufacturing to ensure robust build processes.
• Plan and run development/qualification testing, then reduce and analyze data to drive improvements.
• Author and present test plans, reports, and technical artifacts that stand up to scrutiny.
• Interpret and apply relevant government regulations, safety standards, and procedures for energetic devices.

Are you the expert we’re looking for?

• 10+ years developing and qualifying energetic components.
• BS or higher in Chemistry, Mechanical, Aerospace, or Chemical Engineering; Project Management backgrounds considered.
• Hands-on with requirements verification and validation (V&V).
• Knowledge of ammunition and explosive certification processes.
• Meticulous organization, data-driven analysis, and crisp documentation.
• Strong written communication and presentation skills.

Growth and impact

Own meaningful hardware in a stable environment with long engineering tenures. Avoid the churn of defense-prime layoff cycles and focus on building flight-critical systems. Competitive pay, a signing bonus, and paid relocation support your move and momentum.

Core proficiencies & tech

• Proficiencies: energetic, Explosives, Ordnance, Propellant, Pyrotechnics, Warhead
• Machines & technologies: aerospace

Legal and policy statements

U.S. citizenship (required); ability to obtain a U.S. Government security clearance if needed — selected candidates may be subject to a government security investigation and must meet eligibility requirements for access to classified information

Our client is a drug-free workplace; new hires are subject to pre-employment drug testing.

Our client is an equal opportunity employer — all qualified applicants will receive consideration regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, or protected veteran status.