Principal Propulsion Engineer

YOUR MISSION

As a Principal Propulsion Engineer at True Anomaly, you will be responsible for leading the architecture and team buildout for multiple propulsion systems including flight systems and ground test campaigns in the development of our spacecrafts. You will be a technical expert for the Propulsion team providing knowledge and mentorship to other engineers. This is an opportunity to design and develop our next generation vehicles, shaping the future of space exploration from the ground up. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead the design, analysis, and optimization of propulsion systems and components for advanced satellites and space vehicles, ensuring they meet performance and reliability requirements. 
• Support spacecraft propulsion design and build from concept to flight.  Lead robust trades studies to define propulsion architecture and select components  
• Build propulsion team skillsets and capabilities, including new design initiatives, staff planning and hiring, and direct mentorship. 
• Develop best practices across engineering team including analysis tools, checklists, process documentation, and design release templates.  
• Review models and drawings, provide direct feedback and broader mentoring advice.  
• Support planning of build/assembly and test campaigns. 
• Work collaboratively with structural, mechanical, thermal, and avionics teams to define interfaces, optimize system and ensure compliance with mission requirements. 
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives to enhance design efficiency, manufacturability, and system performance.   

QUALIFICATIONS

• Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering.
• 15+ years of professional experience 
• Demonstrated experience with propulsion systems and hardware such as; rocket engines, thrusters, valves, pumps, tanks, orifices, etc.
• Operational experience including aerospace build, integration, test processes.    
• Fluid system design and analysis including pressurization system sizing, water hammer analysis, pressure budgets, FMECAs, and FDIR architecture.  
• Demonstrated ability to work and lead a multidisciplinary team of engineers in a fast-paced environment.  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 
• Passion for the space industry. 
• U.S. Citizen and eligible for DoD Secret or TS/SCI clearance.

PREFERRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• Master’s degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering (advanced degrees count toward years of experience)  
• 5+ years direct team leadership experience; mentoring junior engineers, planning projects, coordinating day to day tasking  
• Valve and/or propellant tank design, analysis, and manufacturing experience  
• Mechanical design for propulsion systems, mechanisms, and/or optical payloads. 
• Familiarity with propulsion test including hot-fire, cold flow, leak/checkout testing.  
• Track record of innovative problem-solving in complex mechanical designs. 
• Experience working in a startup or similarly dynamic and fast-paced environment. 
• Familiarity with full vehicle lifecycle from concept through production. 
• Ability to maintain or obtain TS/SCI clearance.

COMPENSATION

• Base Salary:  $200,000 to $290,000

• 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 Denver or Colorado Springs. While we observe a hybrid work environment, some work must be done on site.
• 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.

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