Propulsion Engineer II

Propulsion Engineer IIRockville, MD or Hawthorne, CAQuantum 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 ForWe are seeking a motivated and technically driven Engineer II – Propulsion to contribute to the development of advanced propellant tanks, pumps, and next-generation spacecraft propulsion systems supporting Ranger missions. In this role, you will help design, develop, qualify, integrate, and support flight propulsion hardware that enables high-mobility spacecraft for national security, civil, and commercial space applications.Working closely with propulsion, mechanical, systems, manufacturing, test, and flight operations teams, you will support propulsion hardware throughout the full product lifecycle—from concept development through flight operations. This position is ideal for an engineer who enjoys solving complex technical challenges, taking ownership of hardware development, and contributing directly to flight-ready spacecraft systems.You'll Make an ImpactContribute to the design, development, and qualification of propellant tanks, pumps, and advanced spacecraft propulsion systemsExecute engineering tasks across design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, qualification, integration, and flight support activitiesPerform propulsion system trade studies and technical evaluations supporting spacecraft architecture decisionsDevelop engineering analyses, models, and technical documentation supporting propulsion hardware developmentCollaborate with multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver propulsion hardware on schedule while meeting technical and program objectivesSupport subsystem integration, environmental testing, launch campaign activities, and mission readinessInvestigate propulsion hardware anomalies, perform root-cause analysis, and implement corrective actionsContribute to the development of propulsion engineering standards, best practices, and continuous process improvementsSupport 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 successWhat It TakesBachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related engineering discipline3+ years of experience developing propulsion systems, fluid systems, or related aerospace hardwareExperience designing, analyzing, fabricating, testing, and integrating propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systemsDemonstrated ability to independently execute technical work from concept through implementation while collaborating effectively with engineers, technicians, manufacturing personnel, and cross-functional stakeholdersStrong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skillsComfortable operating in a fast-paced, iterative spacecraft development environmentNice-to-Have ExperienceExperience leading significant engineering tasks supporting the development of propellant tanks, pumps, or spacecraft propulsion systemsExperience performing Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and/or Finite Element Analysis (FEA)Experience performing performance analysis of pump-fed spacecraft propulsion systemsExperience designing, analyzing, or testing propellant management devices (PMDs)Experience with laser welding, friction stir welding, or other advanced aerospace manufacturing processesExperience machining aerospace-grade components using CNC equipmentExperience testing propulsion systems utilizing propellants such as hydrazine and MON-3Experience designing gear pumps, pump motors, or other spacecraft fluid system componentsExperience supporting fast-paced aerospace, defense, or commercial space programsExperience utilizing AI-enabled engineering, modeling, or design optimization toolsWhat You'll GetOwnership – Take responsibility for mission-critical propulsion hardware and systems from concept through flightInnovation – Help develop advanced propulsion technologies enabling next-generation spacecraft mobility and maneuverabilityImpact – Deliver reliable, flight-ready propulsion systems supporting national security, civil, and commercial space missionsGrowth – Join a multidisciplinary engineering team where you'll contribute across propulsion development, integration, testing, and mission executionCompensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participationBase Salary: $110,000–$160,000The 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, technical expertise, critical skills, and 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.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.