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Propulsion System Engineer Jobs in Texas (NOW HIRING)

Firefly Aerospace

Director, Propulsion Engineering

TX · On-site

This role is accountable for multiple engine and fluid system programs spanning early architecture ... The scope of the propulsion engineering department spans launch vehicle engines, spacecraft ...

AVTC Group

Propulsion Engineer

Houston, TX · On-site +1

Propulsion Engineer US Citizen / Permanent Resident Aerospace/Spacecraft Experience Onsite in ... Lead presentations and discussions with other discipline sub-systems and working groups related to ...

Firefly Aerospace

Test Engineer, Propulsion

TX · On-site

Your expertise will directly impact mission success as we prepare our systems for lunar missions ... Collaborate with propulsion design engineers, systems engineers, and technicians to resolve ...

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Propulsion System Engineer information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Propulsion System Engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Propulsion System Engineer, you need a solid background in mechanical or aerospace engineering, with strong analytical and problem-solving skills supported by a relevant degree. Familiarity with CAD software, simulation tools like ANSYS or MATLAB, and knowledge of propulsion system regulations or certifications (such as those from SAE or FAA) are typically required. Strong teamwork, communication, and project management abilities set outstanding engineers apart in collaborative and high-stakes environments. These skills ensure the safe, efficient, and innovative design and operation of propulsion systems in complex aerospace projects.

What are some common challenges faced by Propulsion System Engineers, and how can they be addressed?

Propulsion System Engineers often encounter challenges related to integrating complex mechanical, electrical, and software components while ensuring safety, reliability, and efficiency. These challenges can be addressed by collaborating closely with cross-functional teams, conducting rigorous simulation and testing, and staying current with industry standards and technological advancements. Clear communication and adaptability are key, as project requirements and technologies may evolve rapidly. Additionally, effective troubleshooting and problem-solving skills are essential for addressing unexpected issues during development and testing phases.

What is the difference between Propulsion System Engineer vs Mechanical Engineer?

AspectPropulsion System EngineerMechanical Engineer
Required CredentialsBachelor's or Master's in Aerospace, Mechanical, or Propulsion EngineeringBachelor's or Master's in Mechanical Engineering or related field
Work EnvironmentDesign, develop, and test propulsion systems for aerospace or automotive industriesDesign, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems across various industries
Industry UsagePrimarily aerospace, defense, and space sectorsBroadly used in automotive, manufacturing, energy, and aerospace sectors

The Propulsion System Engineer specializes in designing and testing propulsion components, often within aerospace and defense industries, requiring specific knowledge of propulsion systems. Mechanical Engineers have a broader focus on mechanical systems across multiple industries. While both roles require strong engineering fundamentals, Propulsion System Engineers focus more on propulsion-specific design and testing, whereas Mechanical Engineers work on a wider range of mechanical systems.

What are Propulsion System Engineers?

Propulsion System Engineers are professionals who design, develop, test, and maintain systems that propel vehicles, such as rockets, airplanes, or spacecraft. They work with various types of engines, including jet, rocket, and other advanced propulsion technologies, to ensure efficient and safe performance. Their responsibilities often include analyzing system requirements, troubleshooting issues, and collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to optimize propulsion systems for specific missions or vehicles. They play a crucial role in the aerospace, automotive, and defense industries.
What cities in Texas are hiring for Propulsion System Engineer jobs? Cities in Texas with the most Propulsion System Engineer job openings:
Propulsion System Engineer jobs near you
Propulsion Systems Lead - LDN Spacecraft Programs

Propulsion Systems Lead - LDN Spacecraft Programs

Intuitive Machines LLC

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Job description

Propulsion Systems Lead – LDN Spacecraft Programs

Houston, TX

About Intuitive Machines:

Intuitive Machines is an innovative and cutting-edge space company making cislunar space accessible to both public and private customers. Our mission is to further science and exploration, communications, and economic progress from the Earth to the Moon and beyond. With multiple NASA lunar missions in development and additional private missions on our manifest, we pride ourselves in supporting NASA, our customers, and the nation in paving the way to return humans to the surface of the Moon. Our world-class team includes experts in all aspects of spacecraft subsystems design, development, and test, on-orbit operations, and safety.

About the Position:

We are seeking a Propulsion Systems Lead to support the development, test, integration, and operation of the Altus 2 and Altus 3 spacecraft programs. This requisition may be filled at various engineering levels depending on experience, demonstrated capability, and scope of ownership. Candidates with Senior, Staff, Principal, Lead Engineer, or equivalent experience are encouraged to apply.

The Lunar Data Network (LDN) satellite constellation supports NASA's Artemis program and future commercial missions by providing navigation, communications, and data services around the Moon, enabling sustained human and robotic exploration. Altus spacecraft serve as key elements of this architecture, supporting communications and mission services throughout cislunar space.

As Propulsion Systems Lead, you will serve as the technical owner for the propulsion subsystem across two concurrent spacecraft builds, guiding propulsion development from design through integration, test, launch, and mission operations. This role requires close coordination across engineering disciplines, suppliers, manufacturing, integration, and program leadership to ensure successful delivery of flight hardware and mission objectives.

Responsibilities:

  • Serve as technical owner and primary focal point for the Altus propulsion subsystem across Altus 2 and Altus 3 vehicle builds.
  • Lead propulsion subsystem definition, design, integration, verification, qualification, acceptance, and mission operations activities.
  • Define propulsion system requirements, maintain interface definitions, and ensure verification closure throughout the program lifecycle.
  • Coordinate propulsion activities across systems engineering, structures, avionics, software, manufacturing, integration, test, and mission operations teams.
  • Manage propulsion-related technical risks, action items, discrepancies, and anomaly investigations through closure.
  • Develop and maintain propulsion schedules, deliverables, and priorities in coordination with program management and vehicle leadership.
  • Oversee supplier selection, procurement support, technical oversight, and qualification activities for propulsion hardware.
  • Lead component- and system-level test planning, execution, data review, and verification activities.
  • Review and guide propulsion analyses including fluid system modeling, thermal-fluid analyses, performance predictions, and system-level simulations.
  • Utilize tools such as Jira, Microsoft Project, Confluence, or equivalent systems to track technical actions, requirements, schedules, and program execution.
  • Provide technical leadership and coordination across propulsion, systems engineering, manufacturing, integration, test, and mission operations teams.

Requirements:

  • BS or MS in Mechanical, Aerospace, or related Engineering discipline from an accredited institution.
  • Demonstrated ownership of propulsion hardware, subsystems, or other complex aerospace technical scope through significant phases of a development program.
  • Strong understanding of propulsion system fundamentals, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, and spacecraft fluid systems.
  • Experience supporting hardware through design, fabrication, integration, qualification, acceptance, launch, and operational phases.
  • Experience leading multidisciplinary technical efforts and coordinating activities across engineering organizations.
  • Experience managing technical schedules, priorities, and deliverables in a fast-paced development environment.
  • Familiarity with Jira, Microsoft Project, Confluence, or similar project management and issue-tracking tools.
  • Strong technical communication, technical writing, and presentation skills.
  • Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-disciplinary engineering environment.
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple parallel tasks.
  • Alignment with Intuitive Machines' core values: Respect, Integrity, Dedication, and Excellence.
Preferred / Differentiating Experience:
  • Experience with spacecraft propulsion systems utilizing hydrazine monopropellant propulsion.
  • Experience serving as propulsion lead, subsystem lead, or technical lead on spacecraft development programs.
  • Experience with satellite constellations, communications spacecraft, lunar missions, orbital spacecraft, or in-space transportation systems.
  • Experience with electric propulsion systems, including Hall-effect thrusters, ion propulsion systems, xenon feed systems, power processing units, or related technologies.
  • Experience overseeing flight hardware manufacturing, integration, qualification, and acceptance activities.
  • Experience developing and validating propulsion system, fluid network, thermal-fluid, or performance models using tools such as GFSSP, Easy5, SINDA/FLUINT, Thermal Desktop, or equivalent engineering software.
  • Experience supporting spacecraft launch campaigns and on-orbit operations.
  • Familiarity with NASA, DoD, or commercial spacecraft development programs and review processes.


US EEO Statement:

Intuitive Machines is an Equal Opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.