Role Overview
Join a high-impact engineering team supporting advanced spacecraft propulsion research and development for a key U.S. defense agency. In this role, you will deliver technical guidance and systems engineering insight to shape next-generation space technologies and support national security objectives. Based in Arlington, VA, with flexibility for remote work, the position requires close coordination with program managers, research institutions, and defense technology developers.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as a principal technical advisor to program leadership, guiding propulsion-related research and development efforts
- Lead independent evaluations of emerging propulsion technologies, including performance analysis, design trade-offs, and feasibility assessments
- Translate mission and system requirements into actionable R&D goals for chemical, electric, or nuclear propulsion systems
- Develop test strategies and support experimental campaigns in coordination with government and contractor teams
- Participate in design reviews, technical exchanges, and program reviews to ensure technical rigor and program alignment
- Prepare detailed reports, technical briefings, and program documentation for internal and external stakeholders
- Support program planning, acquisition strategy, and transition pathways for maturing technologies
- Identify technical and programmatic risks early and recommend effective mitigation approaches
- Promote innovation and engineering excellence across multidisciplinary project teams
Required Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in engineering or a closely related technical field
- Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in spacecraft propulsion system design or development
- Proven background in chemical, electric, or nuclear propulsion technologies within defense or commercial aerospace programs
- Experience leading technical teams or serving as a subject matter expert on complex engineering projects
- Strong grasp of systems engineering principles and lifecycle development processes
- Demonstrated ability to work autonomously and collaboratively in fast-moving environments
- Active TS/SCI security clearance
- U.S. citizenship, required to maintain access to classified information
Preferred Qualifications
- Advanced degree in engineering, physics, or a related discipline
- Direct experience supporting military or federal research and development programs
- Track record of identifying and resolving technical and programmatic challenges efficiently
- Self-motivated professional with initiative and strong problem-solving capabilities
Work Environment
This position operates in a hybrid model, with a primary location in Arlington, VA, and opportunities for remote work. The role supports a mission-driven organization focused on technological innovation and national defense advancement.
Compensation and Benefits
Salary range is $175,000 to $195,000 annually. Comprehensive benefits include health, dental, and vision coverage; retirement savings with 401(k) matching; paid leave; educational reimbursement; parental leave; employee stock purchase options; disability and life insurance; pet insurance; and tax-advantaged savings plans.
Diversity and Inclusion
We are committed to equal opportunity in employment. All qualified applicants will be considered without regard to race, color, religion, creed, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, pregnancy status, marital or domestic partner status, military or veteran status, genetic information, disability, or any other protected status. We foster an inclusive workplace that values diverse perspectives and lived experiences.
