Propulsion Engineer II

Who We're Looking For 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. We are seeking an Engineer II – Propulsion to contribute to the development of propellant tanks, pumps, and novel spacecraft propulsion systems. This role is ideal for an engineer with several years of experience developing propulsion hardware and systems for demanding aerospace applications. You will work closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, test, and flight operations teams to develop, qualify, integrate, and support flight propulsion systems. This is a hands-on engineering role focused on ownership, technical execution, problem-solving, and mission success. Where You'll Make an Impact Contribute to the development of propellant tanks, pumps, or novel spacecraft propulsion systems Own tasks across design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, qualification, integration, and flight operations Contribute to multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver products on schedule and within budget Contribute to architecture decisions and propulsion trade studies Support organizational development of propulsion engineering standards and best practices Lead investigations and resolution of critical technical issues What It Takes Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. degree in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline 3+ years of relevant engineering experience developing propulsion systems and components Experience designing, analyzing, fabricating, testing, and integrating propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systems Demonstrated ability to independently drive technical work from concept through implementation, including collaboration with engineers, technicians, and other stakeholders Nice-to-Have Experience 1+ years leading significant engineering tasks to deliver propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systems Experience performing computational fluid dynamics (CFD) or finite element analysis (FEA) Experience performing performance analysis of pump-fed spacecraft propulsion systems Experience designing and analyzing propellant management devices (PMDs) Experience performing laser or friction stir welding Experience machining aerospace-grade components using CNC equipment Experience testing pumps with propellants such as hydrazine and MON-3 Experience designing gear pumps Experience designing pump motors Experience working in a fast-paced aerospace or startup environment Experience applying AI-enabled engineering tools What You'll Get Ownership – Take responsibility for critical propulsion hardware and systems from concept through flight Innovation – Develop advanced propulsion technologies enabling next-generation spacecraft mobility Impact – Help deliver mission-critical spacecraft capabilities supporting national security, civil, and commercial missions Growth – Join a cross-functional engineering team operating at the center of spacecraft development, integration, and mission execution Compensation – Maryland salary range: $110,000–$160,000, equity participation opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation 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 propulsion systems powering the next generation of spacecraft mobility and mission capability.