Senior Propulsion Engineer (Aerospace)

TL;DR

Senior Propulsion Engineer (Aerospace): Designing, building, and testing advanced in-space propulsion systems for high-orbit satellites with an accent on performance optimization and clean-sheet design. Focus on executing qualification campaigns, managing vendor relationships, and mentoring junior engineering staff.

Location: San Francisco. U.S. Citizenship, Lawful Permanent Residency, or Refugee/Asylee Status Required

Salary: $145,000 - $235,000 USD

Company

hirify.global builds advanced satellites for high orbits, providing dedicated, secure networks to enterprises, sovereign governments, and the US military.

What you will do

• Lead the design, analysis, and documentation of in-space propulsion systems to meet mission requirements.
• Define and execute qualification campaigns for propulsion components and systems.
• Establish spacecraft operational procedures for long-term flight (10+ years).
• Manage vendor relationships to ensure hardware meets flight requirements.
• Support assembly, integration, and test processes including troubleshooting.
• Mentor entry-level engineers and interns while supporting hiring initiatives.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree or higher in engineering, physics, or equivalent experience.
• 7+ years of propulsion industry experience in design, test, or manufacture.
• Proficiency with 3D CAD, mechanical design, and environmental qualification.
• Experience with the full product development cycle in aerospace or similar fields.
• Hands-on experience with fluid or gas feed systems.
• Working knowledge of in-space electric and chemical propulsion systems. Must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or protected individual.

Nice to have

• Experience with propulsion or fluid component design.
• Direct experience with structural or fluid analysis tools like ANSYS or Fluent.
• Familiarity with AFSPCMAN 91-710 and Range Safety requirements.
• Python skills for scientific calculation and data processing.
• Knowledge of satellite mission operations.

Culture & Benefits

• Competitive base salary with a significant equity package via incentive stock options.
• High-quality company-subsidized healthcare, disability, and life insurance.
• 401(k) retirement planning and flexible PTO.
• Free on-site catered meals at the Northern California headquarters.