Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer

Alexander Associates is recruiting on behalf of a leading aerospace and space technology organization seeking a Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer to join their propulsion engineering team based in Long Beach, California. This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge propulsion and fluid systems supporting advanced space programs for commercial, civil, and defense customers. The successful candidate will take ownership of propulsion system development from concept through qualification and production, contributing to some of the industry's most innovative spacecraft and launch vehicle programs. Candidates may be considered at either the Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer I or Senior Propulsion Systems Engineer II level, depending on experience.

Responsibilities

Lead the development of new and existing propulsion systems and products from concept through deployment; Perform propulsion system performance calculations, modelling, analysis, and detailed system design activities; Define, manage, and maintain technical requirements throughout the product lifecycle; Lead systems engineering activities and provide technical direction across multidisciplinary teams; Plan, execute, and analyse development and qualification testing activities; Develop test plans, instrumentation strategies, data acquisition methods, and post-test analysis reports; Communicate technical progress, risks, and solutions to internal and external stakeholders; Apply sound engineering judgement and risk-based decision-making to complex technical challenges; Support project planning, scheduling, resource allocation, and programme execution; Mentor junior engineers and contribute to the professional development of team members; Drive engineering best practices, documentation standards, and continuous improvement initiatives

Requirements

Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronics, or a related engineering discipline; Minimum 5 years of experience in propulsion system development or a similarly demanding engineering environment (Level I) or minimum 8 years (Level II); Strong expertise in propulsion system modelling, static and transient analysis, and model validation (Level I); Advanced expertise in propulsion system modelling, analysis, testing, and validation (Level II); Equivalent modelling software; Experience supporting full product development lifecycles, including requirements definition, detailed design, qualification, production, and acceptance testing; Strong understanding of systems engineering methodologies and risk-based engineering processes; Demonstrated hands-on engineering experience; Experience working with propulsion systems utilizing chemical and/or electric propulsion technologies (Level I); Experience with both chemical and electric propulsion systems preferred (Level II); Proven experience leading engineering programmes through complete development lifecycles (Level II); Strong systems engineering and technical leadership capabilities (Level II); Demonstrated hands-on engineering and problem-solving experience (Level II); U.S. Citizenship required with the ability to obtain a U.S. Security Clearance

Nice to have

Master's Degree or PhD in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related discipline; Experience with requirements management tools such as Jama; Programming skills in Python for data analysis, automation, and post-processing activities; Mechanical design experience using NX or equivalent CAD software; Working knowledge of GD&T and engineering drawing standards; Experience with National Instruments data acquisition systems; Experience testing, troubleshooting, and supporting flight hardware; Strong project planning and technical leadership skills; Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities; A genuine passion for engineering and space technology; Strong analytical and problem-solving skills; Ability to thrive in fast-paced, technically challenging environments; Comfortable making informed decisions in situations with limited information; Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities; Collaborative mindset and commitment to continuous improvement; Desire to mentor others and contribute to team success