Propulsion Engineer II (Analyst)

Quantum Space is redefining mobility and maneuverability in space. Our high-mobility spacecraft platforms support national security, civil, and commercial missions with unmatched flexibility and propulsion capability. We build fast and iterate quickly.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a motivated and technically driven Propulsion Engineer II to contribute to the development and analysis of advanced propellant tanks, pumps, and next-generation spacecraft propulsion systems supporting Ranger missions.

In this role, you will perform fluid systems and computational fluid dynamics analyses that inform the development and performance of spacecraft propulsion systems. You will work closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, test, and flight operations teams to solve complex technical challenges and support propulsion hardware throughout the product lifecycle.

This position is ideal for an engineer with strong analytical capabilities who enjoys solving complex fluid dynamics and propulsion problems, developing high-quality engineering models, and contributing directly to flight-ready spacecraft systems.

Where You’ll Make an Impact

Develop and execute piping network analyses for spacecraft propulsion and fluid systems

Develop and execute computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analyses, including Volume of Fluid (VOF) and plume analyses

Perform propulsion system trade studies and technical evaluations supporting spacecraft architecture decisions

Develop engineering analyses, models, and technical documentation supporting propulsion system and hardware development

Analyze propulsion and fluid system performance and provide technical recommendations based on modeling and simulation results

Collaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver propulsion solutions that meet technical and program objectives

Investigate propulsion system and hardware anomalies, perform root-cause analysis, and develop technically sound recommendations

Contribute to the development of propulsion engineering standards, analytical best practices, and continuous process improvements

Support technical reviews including System Requirements Review (SRR), Preliminary Design Review (PDR), Critical Design Review (CDR), Test Readiness Review (TRR), and Flight Readiness Review (FRR)

Operate within a fast-paced development environment focused on rapid execution, technical excellence, and mission success

What It Takes

Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline

3+ years of experience working with propulsion systems, fluid systems, or related aerospace applications

Experience developing and executing piping network analyses using commercial analysis tools such as SINDA/FLUINT or GFSSP

Experience developing and executing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) Volume of Fluid (VOF) and plume analyses using commercial CFD tools such as ANSYS Fluent or STAR-CCM+

Demonstrated ability to independently execute complex technical analyses while collaborating effectively with engineers and cross-functional stakeholders

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

Comfortable operating in a fast-paced, iterative spacecraft development environment

Nice-to-Have Experience

Experience designing spacecraft propulsion systems, fluid systems, propellant tanks, pumps, or related aerospace hardware

Experience integrating spacecraft propulsion systems or related fluid system hardware

Experience planning, executing, or supporting propulsion system or component testing and qualification

Experience leading significant engineering tasks supporting the development of propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systems

Experience performing Finite Element Analysis (FEA)

Experience performing performance analysis of pump-fed spacecraft propulsion systems

Experience designing, analyzing, or testing propellant management devices (PMDs)

Experience with laser welding, friction stir welding, or other advanced aerospace manufacturing processes

Experience machining aerospace-grade components using CNC equipment

Experience testing propulsion systems utilizing propellants such as hydrazine and MON-3

Experience designing gear pumps, pump motors, or other spacecraft fluid system components

Experience supporting subsystem integration, environmental testing, launch campaign activities, or mission readiness

Experience supporting fast-paced aerospace, defense, or commercial space programs

Experience utilizing AI-enabled engineering, modeling, or design optimization tools

What You’ll Get

Ownership – Take responsibility for mission-critical propulsion analyses and engineering efforts supporting spacecraft systems from development through flight

Innovation – Help develop advanced propulsion technologies enabling next-generation spacecraft mobility and maneuverability

Impact – Contribute to reliable, flight-ready propulsion systems supporting national security, civil, and commercial space missions

Growth – Join a multidisciplinary engineering team where you'll contribute to complex propulsion challenges and expand your expertise across spacecraft development and mission execution

Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation

Location:
Rockville, MD or Hawthorne, CA

Base Salary:
$110,000 to $160,000

The salary range for this role is an estimate based on a wide range of compensation factors. Actual salary offer may vary based on (but not limited to) work experience, education and/or training, critical skills, and/or business considerations. Highly competitive equity grants are included in the majority of full time offers; and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.

Additional Requirements

To comply with U.S. Government space technology export regulations, including ITAR, applicants must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, protected individual per 8 U.S.C. 1324b(a)(3), or eligible to obtain the required authorizations from the U.S. Department of State.

Apply now. Join us in building the next generation of spacecraft.