Propulsion Component Responsible Engineer

Los Angeles, CAEngineering – Engines and Propulsion /Full-time /On-siteHermeus is a venture-backed defense aviation company reclaiming the lost art of rapid iterative prototyping to build the fastest aircraft in the world today. By prioritizing relentless hardware iteration, we deliver high-speed systems at the pace of the modern battlefield. We work with the Department of War to provide the high-speed capabilities our nation and its allies need to maintain a durable, asymmetric advantage.About The Role:As a Propulsion Component Responsible Engineer you will own the development of flight-critical mechanical and fluid system components, including valves, actuators, and integrated propulsion hardware. You will be responsible for taking hardware from clean-sheet design through build, test, qualification, and production, working in close collaboration with propulsion and vehicle teams. Your work will directly support systems operating in high-pressure, high-temperature, and dynamic flight environments.Responsibilities: Own propulsion components (e.g., valves, actuation systems, and fluid control hardware) from concept through flight-ready deliveryDesign for extreme environments, including high pressure, temperature, and transient operating conditionsDrive engineering trade studies across performance, manufacturability, reliability, and testabilityExecute clean-sheet design, analysis, and integration of propulsion componentsSupport hardware through rapid build–test–iterate cyclesLead troubleshooting and root cause analysis during development and testWork with propulsion and vehicle system owners to define requirements, interfaces, and integration strategiesPerform system-level sizing, architecture, and design tradesLead development testing, qualification, and acceptance of flight hardwareSupport transition from prototype to repeatable, production-ready designsDefine operational limits and ensure reliability and safety across all phases of useMake risk-informed engineering decisions aligned with program goals and timelinesPrioritize work effectively in a fast-paced, evolving development environmentRequirements Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field5+ years of experience developing mechanical or propulsion-related hardwareExperience contributing to hardware through design, build, and test cyclesStrong fundamentals in fluids, thermodynamics, mechanics, and materialsHands-on experience with mechanical design, assembly, or integration Preferred Skills and Qualifications Experience with propulsion systems, high-pressure fluid systems, or aerospace mechanismsExperience designing components such as valves, actuators, or fluid control hardwareFamiliarity with high-temperature materials, sealing strategies, and failure modesStrong knowledge of GD&T, tolerance stack-up, and precision assembliesExperience supporting hardware testing and resolving real-world failuresProficiency with CAD tools (NX preferred) and analysis tools (ANSYS or similar)Experience working in rapid hardware development environments (startup or flight programs)Scripting experience (Python, MATLAB, or similar) for analysis or automationAdditional Requirements:Willingness to work hands-on in build, integration, and test environmentsAbility to support extended hours during critical test campaignsWillingness to travel to support hardware builds and flight testsMust be eligible to access export-controlled information$91,800 - $187,450 a yearEngineer I $91,800 - $112,200Engineer II $114,750 - $140,250Engineer III $138,550 - $187,450The salary information provided is a general guideline only. Hermeus takes various factors into account, including, but not limited to, the position's scope and responsibilities, the candidate's professional background, education and training, essential skills, and market and business considerations, when presenting a job offer.Salary is only one part of our total compensation and benefits package. Hermeus offers competitive salary and equity, unlimited PTO policy, paid parental leave, potential for year-end bonuses, and more!100% employer-paid health care401k & Retirement PlansUnlimited PTOWeekly Paid Office LunchesEnd of Year BonusesFully stocked breakroomsStock Options Paid Parental LeaveU.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUS The person hired will have access to information and items subject to U.S. export controls, and therefore, must either be a “U.S. person” as defined by 22 C.F.R. § 120.62 or otherwise eligible for deemed export licensing. US persons include U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and asylees and refugees with such status granted, not pending. EQUAL OPPORTUNITYHermeus is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions at Hermeus are based solely on merit, competence, and qualifications, without regard to 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.We may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of the hiring process, such as reviewing applications, analyzing resumes, or assessing responses. These tools assist our recruitment team but do not replace human judgment. Final hiring decisions are ultimately made by humans. If you would like more information about how your data is processed, please contact us.