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Propulsion Engineer (II - III)

True Anomaly

Laguna Beach, CAFull-time$95–165K/yrPosted 3mo agoVerified open 5 days ago

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At a glance

Compensation
$95–165K/yr
Location
Laguna Beach, CA
Schedule
Full-time
Work Authorization
US work authorization required

Requirements

Credentials this posting asks for.

Bachelor's degree

Job overview

True Anomaly is hiring a Propulsion Engineer (II - III). True Anomaly seeks propulsion engineers to design, build, and test propulsion systems for advanced satellites and space‑based interceptors, collaborating across multidisciplinary teams to mature concepts into flight‑ready hardware while shaping processes and delivering high‑quality products.

Key focus areas include Design, analyze, and optimize propulsion systems and components for advanced satellites and interceptors, Mature systems from concept to flight, ensuring performance and reliability requirements are met, and Develop, review, and release models, engineering drawings, P&ID, and equipment lists.

Successful candidates bring Bachelor's Degree In Mechanical Engineering, 2+ Years Professional Experience, and 5+ Years Professional Experience. Important skills include Propulsion System Design, Propulsion System Analysis, Propulsion System Optimization, Engineering Drawing Development, P&ID Development, and Fluid System Design. Preferred (not required): Project Leadership, Valve Design, Propellant Tank Design, and Thruster Design.

Skills & qualifications

RequiredNice to have

Skills

Propulsion System DesignPropulsion System AnalysisPropulsion System OptimizationEngineering Drawing DevelopmentP&ID DevelopmentFluid System DesignFluid System AnalysisPressurization System SizingWater Hammer AnalysisPressure BudgetsFMECAFDIR ArchitectureMultidisciplinary TeamworkCommunicationSupplier InterfaceCustomer InterfaceProject LeadershipValve DesignPropellant Tank DesignThruster DesignEngine DesignValve AnalysisPropellant Tank AnalysisThruster AnalysisEngine AnalysisValve ManufacturingPropellant Tank ManufacturingThruster ManufacturingEngine ManufacturingMechanical Design of Primary StructureMechanical Design of Secondary StructureMechanical Design of Mechanisms on SpacecraftMechanical Design of Ground Support EquipmentMechanical Design of Test EquipmentInnovative Problem-SolvingComplex Mechanical DesignsFull Vehicle Lifecycle

Qualifications

Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering2+ Years Professional Experience5+ Years Professional ExperiencePropulsion Hardware ExperienceRocket Engines ExperienceThrusters ExperienceValves ExperiencePumps ExperienceTanks ExperienceOrifices ExperiencePropulsion Test ExperienceHot-Fire Testing Experience

Benefits

Medical Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off
Parental Leave
401(k) Match

Full job description

Space is a warfighting domain. True Anomaly seeks those with the talent and ambition to build the technology that secures it.

OUR MISSION

True Anomaly delivers decisive capabilities for space superiority. We build autonomous spacecraft, advanced payloads, mission software, and space-based interceptors — enabling the U.S. and its Allies to secure the space environment and counter threats from the ultimate high ground.

OUR VALUES

  • Be the offset. We create asymmetric advantages with creativity and ingenuity.
  • What would it take? We challenge assumptions to deliver ambitious results.
  • It’s the people. Our team is our competitive advantage and we are better together. YOUR MISSION

As a Propulsion Engineer at True Anomaly, you will be responsible for design, build, and test of multiple propulsion systems including flight systems and ground test campaigns in the development of our Jackal and Space Based Interceptors. You will collaborate with Propulsion and other subsystem teams. This is an opportunity to design and develop our next generation vehicles, shaping the future of space capabilities.

RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Design, analyze, and optimize propulsion systems and components for advanced satellites and interceptors,

  • Mature these systems from concept to flight, ensuring they meet performance and reliability requirements.

  • Develop, review and release models and engineering drawings, P&ID, equipment lists

  • Work collaboratively with structural, mechanical, thermal, and avionics teams to manage interfaces, validate designs and ensure compliance with vehicle requirements.

  • Shape the process. Brainstorm solutions, work continuous improvement initiatives, help streamline processes, help the team deliver high quality products and avoid low value add tasks.

  • Own your area of responsibility. Become a technical expert, know how your part works with the larger system, identify risks, and present products to internal and external customers. QUALIFICATIONS

  • Bachelor’s degree in mechanical or aerospace engineering

  • 2+ years of professional experience (for level 2)

  • 5+ years of professional experience (for level 3)

  • Demonstrated experience with propulsion hardware; rocket engines, thrusters, valves, pumps, tanks, orifices, etc.

  • Propulsion test experience; hot-fire testing, cold flow, vehicle-level propulsion checkouts, and propellant loading.

  • Fluid system design and analysis including pressurization system sizing, water hammer analysis, pressure budgets, FMECAs, and FDIR architecture.

  • Demonstrated ability to work with a multidisciplinary team of engineers in a fast-paced environment.

  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to interface effectively with suppliers and customers.

  • Passion for the space industry. PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

  • Master’s degree in mechanical engineering (advanced degrees count toward years of experience )

  • Direct experience in development and production Launch or Space Vehicles.

  • Project leadership experience

  • Valve, propellant tank, thruster, engine design, analysis, and manufacturing experience.

  • Mechanical design of primary/secondary structure and mechanisms on spacecraft, ground support and test equipment

  • Track record of innovative problem-solving in complex mechanical designs.

  • Experience working in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

  • Familiarity with full vehicle lifecycle from concept through production. COMPENSATION

  • Base Salary: $95,000 - $165,000

  • Equity + Benefits including Health, Dental, Vision, HRA/HSA options, PTO and paid holidays, 401K, Parental Leave Your actual level and base salary will be determined on a case-by-case basis and may vary based on the following considerations: job-related knowledge and skills, education, location, and experience.

ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS

  • Work Location —Successful candidates will be located near Centennial, CO or Long Beach, CA.
  • Work environment —the work environment; temperature, noise level, inside or outside, or other factors that will affect the person's working conditions while performing the job.
  • Physical demands —the physical demands of the job, including bending, sitting, lifting and driving. This position will be open until it is successfully filled. To submit your application, please follow the directions below. #LI-Onsite

To conform to U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) you must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident of the U.S., protected individual as defined by 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

True Anomaly is committed to equal employment opportunity on any basis protected by applicable state and federal laws. If you have a disability or additional need that requires accommodation, please do not hesitate to let us.

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