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Vertical Launch Systems Engineer Location: Dallas, TX or Washington, DC | Frequent Travel Required
Clearance: Active and transferable U.S. government-issued security clearance required; U.S. citizenship required
Employment Type: Full-time, salaried, with full benefits The Company & Mission: A stealth-mode defense technology company developing a flagship platform designed to meaningfully shift the balance of any conflict in favor of the U.S. and its allies. The company is well-funded, the platform is already developed, and customer demand is strong. This is a chance to work on one of the most important defense problems of our time alongside an elite, mission-driven team. What This Role is All About: The Vertical Launch Systems Engineer will be responsible for adapting the company's flagship heavy effector into U.S. military vertical launch infrastructure. This is a fast-paced integration role spanning cell design, umbilical logistics, safety validation, and direct engagement with military technical stakeholders. You will be the critical link between a world-class engineering team and the U.S. military customer. What You'll Be Doing: • Lead rapid MK 41 and MK 70 integration: design the physical, mechanical, and electrical interfaces to adapt the flagship effector into standard Strike-length MK 41 VLS cells and the MK 70 Payload Delivery System (PDS)
• Drive cell integration, umbilical logistics, and safety validation across the full system lifecycle
• Support testing and integration with U.S. service platforms, including coordination with Navy C4I and VLS technical elements
• Work cross-functionally with mechanical, electrical, software, and systems engineering teams to ensure mission-ready launch capabilities
• Communicate requirements and roadblocks clearly to both technical and non-technical audiences, including military stakeholders
• Conduct hazard analysis and risk management activities for Weapon System Explosive Safety Review Board (WSESRB)
• Apply MIL-STD-810 standards for environmental, sympathetic shock, and functional testing What You Bring: • Bachelor's degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or related field
• 3–10+ years of experience in launch systems, missile systems, aerospace systems, or similar
• 3+ years of hands-on experience with vertical launch system canisters or a VLS-equipped platform
• Strong understanding of systems engineering principles and lifecycle processes
• Experience with CAD tools and/or simulation software (e.g., MATLAB, Simulink, ANSYS, SOLIDWORKS)
• Knowledge of propulsion systems, launch dynamics, and structural analysis
• Familiarity with safety-critical systems and risk assessment methodologies
• Experience interfacing with U.S. military customers and/or working aboard U.S. Naval ships
• Familiarity with VLS documentation, technical publications, and NAVSEA instructions for MK 41 or other VLS systems
• Experience supporting Navy C4I Systems and/or Navy VLS programs (MK57, MK41, or MK 70)
• Active and transferable U.S. government-issued security clearance required prior to start; U.S. citizenship required Bonus Points: • Certified cardholder for MK57 or MK41 systems
• Experience with hardware/software integration, network systems, or system activation and test in a lab or field environment
• Maintaining active relationships with engineering and customer representatives across naval programs Benefits: • Competitive compensation and full benefits package
• Full-time, salaried position