Lead Propulsion Component 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 Lead Propulsion Component Engineer you will own the development of flight-critical propulsion components—including valves, actuators, and high-performance mechanical systems operating in extreme thermal and pressure environments. This is a player–coach role: you will directly design and deliver hardware while leading a small team of engineers. You will own components from clean-sheet design through test, qualification, and flight, and your hardware will move quickly from concept to real-world operation.ResponsibilitiesOwn propulsion components (e.g., high-pressure valves, actuation systems, and fluid control hardware) from concept through flight qualificationDesign for extreme environments including high temperature, pressure, and dynamic loadingDrive trade studies across performance, manufacturability, reliability, and testabilityExecute clean-sheet design, analysis, and integration of propulsion hardwareLead development through rapid build–test–iterate cyclesSupport and troubleshoot hardware during ground and flight test campaignsLead and mentor a team of 2–5 engineers, setting technical direction and execution prioritiesReview designs, guide engineering decisions, and ensure high technical standardsAct as the Responsible Engineer for critical flight hardwareWork closely with propulsion, structures, and vehicle teams to integrate components into engine and vehicle systemsDefine system requirements, interfaces, and operational limitsDrive transition from prototype to repeatable, production-ready hardwareDevelop assembly, test, and acceptance strategies for reliable deliveryRequirements Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, or related field7+ years of experience developing mechanical or propulsion hardwareDemonstrated experience owning hardware from concept through test or productionStrong fundamentals in fluids, thermodynamics, mechanics, and materialsHands-on experience with design, build, and integration of mechanical systemsPreferred Skills and Qualifications Experience with propulsion systems, high-pressure fluid systems, or aerospace mechanismsExperience designing components such as valves, actuators, turbomachinery-adjacent hardware, or fluid control systemsFamiliarity with high-temperature materials and sealing strategiesStrong knowledge of GD&T, tolerance stack-up, and precision assembliesExperience with rapid development environments (startup or flight hardware programs)Proficiency with CAD tools (NX preferred) and analysis tools (ANSYS or similar)Experience supporting hardware through test campaigns and resolving real-world failuresAdditional Requirements Willingness to work hands-on in build, integration, and test environmentsAbility to support extended hours during critical test and flight operationsWillingness to travel to test sites as neededMust be eligible to access export-controlled information$138,550 - $187,450 a yearThe salary range listed for this role is intended as a general guideline. Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including role scope and responsibilities, relevant experience, education and training, key skills, market data, and business needs.At Hermeus, compensation is only one part of our total rewards package. We offer competitive pay, equity, and a range of benefits designed to support our team.Benefits:Health & Wellness: 100% employer-paid healthcare and pet insuranceFinancial: Competitive pay, stock options, 401(k) retirement plan, and potential year-end bonusesTime Off: Paid parental leave, 12 federal holidays, unlimited PTO for exempt employees, and generous accrued PTO for non-exempt employeesOffice Perks: Weekly paid office lunches and fully stocked breakroomsU.S. EXPORT CONTROL COMPLIANCE STATUSThe 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.#LI-JC3We 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.