Senior Propulsion Engineer

At ispace U.S., we’re not just going to the Moon—we’re redefining how we get there. Our missions push the boundaries of human and robotic exploration, driven by our belief: “Expand our Planet. Expand our Future.” By providing cost-effective lunar transportation, we are pioneering a future where space is within reach for scientific discovery, commercial ventures, and sustainable exploration.  

With locations in Japan, Luxembourg, and the United States, ispace is rapidly growing and leading the way in lunar exploration and development. Our U.S. branch is based in Englewood, Colorado, and focuses on high-capacity payload lunar landers designed to support future lunar missions. Our team is made up of innovators, problem-solvers, and visionaries committed to making space more accessible and fostering the next generation of space exploration. 

Let’s go to the Moon together! Our team is growing, and we are actively seeking talented individuals who share our passion for space. 

We are seeking a highly skilled and experienced Senior Propulsion Engineer to lead the design, development, and verification of reliable propulsion systems for our lunar lander missions. This role is critical in shaping propulsion architecture with manufacturability and performance in mind, driving component and system-level design through testing, integration, and flight operations. The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise in fluid and mechanical systems, a hands-on approach to complex hardware development, and a strong track record of delivering flight-ready propulsion solutions in fast-paced environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Rapidly design, develop, and analyze a highly reliable lander propulsion system for spaceflight missions
• Define and evolve propulsion architecture and requirements with a strong focus on manufacturability
• Own the full lifecycle of propulsion components and sub-assemblies—from design, analysis, and manufacturing through test, certification, and flight operations
• Lead system-level verification testing, troubleshooting, and requirements closure
• Layout complex, highly integrated fluid and mechanical systems
• Conduct performance tests and fluid analysis to validate system behavior and design integrity
• Collaborate cross-functionally with software, hardware, integration, and supply chain teams to ensure system success
• Create and manage supplier statements of work and ensure alignment with technical and schedule requirements
• Drive resolution of technical issues with innovative, practical solutions under tight development timelines

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical or Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent practical experience
• 7+ years of experience in spacecraft and/or launch vehicle propulsion systems
• 5+ years of hands-on experience with fluid, mechanical, and electrical systems
• Proven track record leading propulsion hardware development through design, fabrication, testing, and integration
• Proficiency in SolidWorks, fluid analysis tools, NI LabVIEW, and time series analysis
• Strong understanding of mechanical design, material selection, and fabrication methods for spaceflight hardware
• Experience with fluid dynamics and pressurized components, such as valves, regulators, and piping systems
• Knowledge of relevant industry standards (e.g., AIAA S-080, S-081, NASA-STD-5001/5017, SMC-S-016)
• Strong communication and teamwork skills, including participation in technical reviews and feedback cycles
• Demonstrated ability to make sound engineering decisions using first principles, trade studies, and engineering judgment

What makes you stand out!

• Experience developing, maintaining, and improving tube welding processes
• Experience designing and handling typical spacecraft propellants
• Previous work in propulsion flight operations or in-space propulsion components
• Experience in Clean Room manufacturing and test environments
• Familiarity with writing proposals, qualification test plans, work instructions, and technical reports
• Hands-on experience with complex spacecraft integration
• Demonstrated success working on fast-paced, high-stakes flight development programs
• Strong design-for-manufacturing mindset and ability to optimize for production at scale

 #LI-LH1

At ispace, we believe that diverse perspectives drive innovation. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences, even if you don’t meet every listed requirement. If you’re passionate about our mission and think you can contribute, we encourage you to apply. Your unique skills and experiences may be exactly what we need to grow and succeed together. 

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. Learn more about the ITAR .here.   

ispace is an Equal Opportunity Employer; employment with ispace is governed on the basis of merit, competence and qualifications and will not be influenced in any manner by race, color, religion, gender, national origin/ethnicity, veteran status, disability status, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, mental or physical disability or any other legally protected status. 

All applicants who are offered employment with ispace US will be subject to a background investigation. Offers of employment are contingent on the successful completion of a background investigation conducted in accordance with Company policies and all applicable laws.

ispace Technologies, US, Inc. is a drug-free workplace. 

ispace Technologies, US, Inc. participates in the E-Verify program.