Propulsion System Subject Matter Expert (SME)

Job Description

Job Description

Propulsion System Subject Matter Expert (SME)
Huntsville, AL

Who We Are

Aurex is a mission-focused aerospace and defense company building the next frontier of deterrence. From hypersonics and missile defense to hardened networks and orbital systems, we design, test, and deliver the platforms that turn unproven ideas into battlefield-ready capability.

Born in Huntsville and built for speed, Aurex brings together aerospace veterans, combat-tested operators, and forward-leaning technologists to solve problems that matter—fast. We move from whiteboard to warfighter with precision, clarity, and zero tolerance for fluff.

Job Summary

We are looking for an experienced propulsion engineer for our next generation hypersonic and missile systems. This Subject Matter Expert will lead a team in development, design, build, test and delivery of systems to our customers as expedited timelines.

Responsibilities

• Architect and design clean sheet systems utilizing a lean requirements approach
• Create detailed 3D models, assemblies, and technical drawings to support manufacturing and integration.
• Perform and lead others in performing propulsion analysis
• develop processes and procedures for manufacturing, integration and testing of propulsion systems
• Develop an integration and test plan for an HWIL propulsion system
• Select and source propulsion components from traditional and non-traditional supply chain

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace, or a related field with relevant experience in the industry or Master's degree or Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace, or relevant field with experience in applying your knowledge to real-world systems
• A minimum of 20 years of industry experience in propulsion systems
• Proficiency in cold gas systems, water hammer analysis, solid rocket systems
• Hands-on experience with thermal analysis packages, such as Thermal Desktop.
• Familiarity with testing various propulsion systems
• knowledge of current US based supply chain
• Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities to work in multidisciplinary teams.
• Experience with aerospace regulatory standards and certification processes is a plus.
• Active DoD Secret Clearance

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of Missile Defense Agency (MDA) requirements and processes
• Knowledge of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) for coupled thermal-structural simulations.
• Familiarity with materials for TPS, such as ceramics, composites, or ablative coatings in regards to propulsion systems.
• Experience in high-temperature testing or simulation of aerospace components.
• Understanding of orbital mechanics and space environment effects on propulsion systems

The salary range for this role is $180,000 - $210,000 annually. We offer a comprehensive total rewards approach to compensation, providing incentives and benefits that extend far beyond the base salary. Compensation is determined by the candidate’s work experience, education, training, and relevant skills. We offer a competitive benefits package designed to support our employees' health, well-being, and professional growth.

Job Location: Huntsville, AL

Aurex is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It prohibits discrimination, retaliation, or any type of harassment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, genetics, disability, age, veteran status, citizenship, immigration status, or any other legally protected status in employment, including in hiring, firing, and recruiting decisions. All applicants must be authorized to work lawfully in the United States for positions at Aurex. There may be limited circumstances in which a law, regulation, executive order, or government contract would require certain citizenship; only in those limited circumstances would Aurex require certain citizenship status to comply with the relevant law, regulation, executive order, or government contract applicable to that position. For all other positions, Aurex does not consider an applicant’s citizenship but only requires that the applicant be authorized to work lawfully in the United States. If a position is one that falls under export control laws and regulations requiring authorization from the U.S. government to access export-controlled items, any hiring is contingent on the applicant passing the export compliance assessment, which is separate from the I-9 process, for that specific position. A background check will be required prior to any hire.

Elevate your career by joining the Aurex Platform, a leader in aerospace innovation!