Associate Rocket Propulsion EngineerPosition Overview
We are seeking an Associate Rocket Propulsion Engineer to support the design, development, and testing of solid rocket propulsion systems for advanced aerospace and hypersonic applications. This role is heavily focused on hands-on propellant processing and mixing within laboratory and manufacturing environments.
The ideal candidate will assist with propellant formulation activities, execute precise material preparation and batching procedures, and contribute to iterative formulation improvements under the guidance of senior engineers. This position requires strong attention to detail, process discipline, and a commitment to safety when working with energetic materials.
You will collaborate closely with propulsion engineers and cross-functional teams in a fast-paced research and development environment.
Key Responsibilities
Execute material preparation and laboratory procedures in accordance with established safety and process controls
Support solid rocket propellant formulation, mixing, batching, processing, and basic material characterization activities
Assist with motor casting, integration, and inspection to ensure quality and performance consistency
Participate in ground testing of solid rocket motors, including test setup, execution support, data collection, and basic post-test analysis
Contribute to formulation improvements based on test data and performance trends under senior engineer guidance
Support evaluation of ablative materials and thermal protection systems for solid rocket motor applications
Assist with internal ballistics evaluations and propulsion analysis, including chamber pressure, thrust, and burn behavior review
Collaborate with engineering and manufacturing teams to support active development programs
Prepare technical documentation, test reports, and qualification documents
Required Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering Technology, Chemical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or a related field
OR
5 years of relevant casting experience in lieu of a degree
Working knowledge of CAD software such as SolidWorks
Ability and willingness to perform hands-on engineering work in laboratory and test environments
Strong attention to detail and ability to follow established procedures and safety protocols
U.S. citizenship and ability to obtain and maintain a Secret security clearance
Preferred Qualifications
1-3 years of experience in propulsion, energetics, materials, or related engineering environments
Internship, co-op, academic research, or laboratory experience related to propulsion systems or energetic materials
Hands-on laboratory or manufacturing experience
Experience with propellant mixing, batching, or formulation processes
Familiarity with propulsion and thermochemical analysis tools such as ProPEP, CEAM, CHEM, or similar software
Basic understanding of solid rocket motor concepts, including internal ballistics and burn behavior
Experience supporting test activities, data collection, and post-test analysis
Exposure to FEA tools for thermal or structural analysis
Benefits
Competitive salary
Comprehensive health benefits with high employer contribution
401(k) matching program
Employee stock option program
Flexible work schedule
Professional development and career growth opportunities
Collaborative and innovative engineering environment
Why Join Us
This is an opportunity to contribute to next-generation aerospace and hypersonic propulsion technologies in a highly technical and hands-on engineering environment. You will work alongside experienced propulsion engineers on advanced research and development programs while building expertise in solid rocket motor development, propellant processing, and testing.
If you are passionate about propulsion systems, experimental engineering, and cutting-edge aerospace technology, we encourage you to apply.
Company Description
W3Global was established in 2006 in Fremont, CA with a vision: simplify the recruiting process and develop an industry-disrupting platform to connect candidates with clients. Our cutting-edge Applicant Tracking System enables us to find the right person for the right job, creating value for job seekers and employers. While W3Global initially focused on IT staffing, we have expanded the business to serve many other industries, including accounting and finance, legal, engineering, human resources, government and more.
We’re proud of the investments we’ve made in our team, having grown from four to 1000 employees and evolving into one of the leading recruitment and staffing solution providers in the industry. Our recruiters and account managers are passionate about connecting qualified professionals with the right positions in small, medium, and large companies.
Our Services
W3Global understands the natural ups and downs of an organization’s staffing needs. We are continuously adapting to industry and economic changes to find the right candidates.
We specialize in placing permanent, direct, contract, and temporary positions for companies of any size. Our recruiting services include sourcing, recruiting, screening, interview management, salary negotiations, training, and onboarding.
We are committed to helping organizations redefine their recruitment process by delivering our SaaS-based proprietary application tracking system software.
Our Expertise
W3Global has been delivering staffing solutions for nearly two decades; we know which recruiting strategies work best. Our expert team is committed to developing a customized solution to fit your company’s unique needs.
As a W3Global client, you’ll also receive personalized assistance from a seasoned team of staffing specialists. We are committed to providing both technical support and industry expertise to simplify the hiring process. We know that your time matters. W3Global will help you streamline the hiring process, getting it done and getting it right.