Senior Engineer (Engineer III) / Principal Engineer (Engineer IV) – Propulsion

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.

Who We're Looking For

We are seeking an experienced Senior Engineer III / Principal Engineer IV – Propulsion Systems to lead the development of advanced flight-qualified spacecraft propulsion systems supporting next-generation Ranger missions. In this role, you will provide technical leadership across the full product lifecycle—from architecture and concept development through design, manufacturing, qualification, integration, and flight operations.

Depending on your experience and technical expertise, you will serve as the technical lead for spacecraft propulsion subsystem development, driving innovation across chemical and electric propulsion technologies. This position is ideal for an engineer who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys solving complex technical challenges, and is passionate about delivering flight-ready hardware for demanding national security, civil, and commercial space missions.

Where You'll Make an Impact

Lead the development of advanced spacecraft propulsion systems from concept through flight qualification and mission operations

Provide technical leadership across design, analysis, manufacturing, testing, integration, qualification, and flight support activities

Lead multidisciplinary engineering teams to deliver mission-critical hardware on schedule and within program objectives

Serve as the technical authority for propulsion system architecture, subsystem design, and component development

Conduct propulsion trade studies and system architecture evaluations to optimize spacecraft performance, reliability, and operational flexibility

Drive technical program execution, risk reduction strategies, development planning, and long-range technology roadmaps

Support customer engagements, executive program reviews, technical interchange meetings, and design reviews

Mentor and develop engineers across multiple disciplines while promoting technical excellence and engineering best practices

Lead resolution of complex technical and programmatic issues throughout the spacecraft development lifecycle

Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives that strengthen propulsion engineering processes, technical standards, and organizational capabilities

What It Takes

Senior Engineer III

Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline

7+ years of relevant aerospace or propulsion engineering experience

Demonstrated ability to lead engineering teams through major project milestones

Experience leading low- to medium-complexity propulsion or spacecraft development efforts

Recognized technical contributor with strong engineering judgment and decision-making skills

Experience managing technical schedules, program execution, and engineering priorities

Principal Engineer IV

Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. in Aerospace Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related technical discipline

10+ years of relevant aerospace or propulsion engineering experience

Demonstrated success leading multidisciplinary engineering teams through complex spacecraft development programs

Established technical leadership across medium- to high-complexity engineering efforts

Recognized subject matter expert with experience influencing technical direction across programs or organizations

Experience managing technical schedules, budgets, and program execution

Technical Expertise

Candidates should possess demonstrated expertise in one or more of the following areas:

Spacecraft Propulsion Systems

Design, analysis, fabrication, integration, testing, and operation of spacecraft propulsion systems

Spacecraft pressure systems, propulsion architecture, and range safety requirements

Integration of propulsion systems with spacecraft avionics, structures, thermal, power, and mission systems

Chemical and electric propulsion technologies, propulsion components, and spacecraft propulsion architectures

Assembly, Integration, and Test (AI&T) activities supporting spacecraft propulsion subsystem verification and vehicle integration

Nice-to-Have Experience

3+ years leading engineering teams developing spacecraft propulsion systems

Experience supporting fast-paced aerospace, defense, or commercial space programs

Systems engineering experience including requirements development, interface management, verification, and validation planning

Experience applying Lean Six Sigma, project management methodologies, or continuous improvement practices

Experience utilizing AI-enabled engineering, modeling, or design optimization tools

Experience leading rapid hardware development programs from prototype through flight qualification

Broad spacecraft systems knowledge beyond propulsion, including power, structures, avionics, thermal, or GNC

Subject matter expertise in spacecraft propulsion components such as valves, regulators, thrusters, pressure vessels, feed systems, or fluid control devices

What You'll Get

Ownership – Lead the development of mission-critical spacecraft propulsion systems and propellant tanks supporting advanced Ranger missions

Innovation – Help develop next-generation propulsion technologies enabling agile, high-mobility space operations

Impact – Deliver flight-ready propulsion hardware supporting national security, civil, and commercial space missions

Growth – Join a multidisciplinary engineering team where you'll influence spacecraft architecture, propulsion technology, and mission execution

Compensation – Competitive salary, equity, and comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, generous leave, HSA, 401(k) matching, and equity participation

Location: Rockville, MD; or Hawthorne, CA; or Denver, CO

Base Salary: $160,000–$230,000

The 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, leadership experience, critical skills, and business considerations. Position level (Senior Engineer III or Principal Engineer IV) will be determined based on the selected candidate's qualifications and experience. Highly competitive equity grants and sign-on opportunities may be available and are considered part of Quantum Space's total compensation package.

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 next generation of spacecraft.